30 Gym Etiquette Rules We’ve All Bent (Or Totally Forgotten)

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The gym, just like any other shared space, has a couple of rules; some written, some not. Unfortunately, to some people, if a rule is not written, it doesn’t exist, and this gives rise to a few awkward stares and whispers of “Who does that!” To safeguard you from these instances, we’ve compiled a list of 30 gym etiquette rules. Read through so that you can save yourself the embarrassment.

Hogging the Mirror

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Almost everyone has been guilty of standing right in front of the mirror, adjusting ponytails, or checking their form for a bit too long. But who hasn’t zoned out while thinking, “Do I really look like that when I squat?” Guilty! Remember, others need to see their progress, too.

Leaving Equipment Sweaty

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Forgot to wipe down that bench? Not cool. Even though you can forget to do so, make it a habit to wipe any used equipment after all sets. Don’t just rush to the next machine because we all know how it feels to sit in someone else’s sweat—gross. 

Talking Too Loud

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Gym conversations can get loud without us even realizing it. Mid-sweat chat with a workout buddy? Totally fine! But sometimes, we forget that not everyone wants to hear about our weekend plans during their yoga session. Keep it low-key and save the deep talks for after.

Abandoning Your Towel

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So, you’ve parked your towel on the leg press and gone off to grab some water. Before you know it, five minutes have passed, and someone’s patiently waiting. This is so common, but don’t let them around like reservation markers!

Texting and Scrolling Mid-Set

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Checking Instagram or texting your friends between sets? Guilty. While you’re casually scrolling, others are waiting for the machine you’re perched on. A quick break is fine, but maybe save the social scrolling and chit-chat for after the gym grind.

Dropping Weights Loudly

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Sometimes, the weights hit the floor with a bang, and you tell yourself it’s because you’re lifting heavy. But let’s be real, those 10-pound dumbbells didn’t need to make that much noise. It’s all fun and games until someone’s eardrum is harmed or you leave a crack on the floor.

Taking Up Multiple Machines

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We’ve all had those days when we claim two machines for a superset workout. Problem is, the gym isn’t a personal playground. If others are waiting, it’s probably best to stick to one machine at a time. No one wants to play “Is this in use?”

Ignoring the Cardio Machine Time Limit

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So you’re in the zone on the treadmill, and suddenly, the 30-minute time limit is just a suggestion, right? Well, surely most have stretched that one out. But with others waiting for their cardio fix, it’s only fair to hop off when your time’s up.

Wearing Too Much Perfume

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A spritz of perfume for the gym? Sure. A cloud of fragrance so heavy it could double as an air freshener? Not so much. While smelling good is nice, overdoing it in an enclosed, sweaty space can be overpowering for others.

Singing Along to Your Playlist

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Belting out your favorite tunes mid-run is super motivating, but not everyone appreciates your spontaneous karaoke session. Even if your rendition of “Eye of the Tiger” is flawless, the gym might not be the best stage for it.

Sneaking Glances at Other People’s Workouts

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You’re just curious, right? It happens to the best of us: we sneak a peek at someone else’s workout routine or treadmill speed. It’s totally natural, but try not to make it obvious—nobody likes feeling like they’re on display.

Staring at Your Phone While Others Wait

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Ever spent five minutes replying to texts while sitting on the bench? Whoops. It’s easy to lose track of time when you’re multitasking, but someone’s probably eyeballing that bench, just waiting for their turn.

Skipping the Stretching Area

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Sometimes, we treat the stretching zone like it’s optional, heading straight for the machines. But we all know we should be stretching before and after. Let’s just admit it: we’ve all ditched this rule in favor of extra squats at least once.

Taking Super Long Water Breaks

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Sometimes, you grab your water bottle and accidentally take a ten-minute hydration vacation. While it’s essential to stay hydrated, hogging space around the water fountain or wandering off for too long between sets isn’t the best gym etiquette.

Not Racking the Weights

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Re-racking weights feel like a chore when you’re exhausted from that last set. But leaving dumbbells scattered across the floor like a fitness obstacle course is dangerous. Yeah, we’ve all done it at least once—only to feel guilty when someone trips over them.

Not Letting Others Work In

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You’re mid-workout, and someone asks, “Can I work in?” You hesitate, maybe even pretend not to hear, and say, “Just one more set!” We’ve all felt a bit territorial at times, but sharing equipment is part of gym life. Don’t worry; your set will still count.

Talking Too Much in Class

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Group fitness classes are fun, and catching up with friends is a bonus. But sometimes, the chatting continues well into the workout. Your instructor’s side-eye says it all. It’s fine to be social, but try not to disrupt the flow of the class!

Leaving Belongings All Over

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Bags on the floor, phones on machines, towels everywhere—it happens. The gym locker is just so far away. We’ve all scattered our stuff around at some point, creating a mini obstacle course. Next time, remember: tidy gym, happy gym-goers.

Monopolizing the Foam Roller

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We all know the foam roller feels like heaven, especially after leg day. But spending 15 minutes rolling while others wait for their turn isn’t fair. A quick roll-out is enough, and then it’s time to let someone else enjoy the sweet relief.

Blocking the Dumbbell Rack

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We’ve all stood a little too close to the dumbbell rack, making it awkward for others to grab what they need. Sometimes, we don’t even realize we’re in the way until someone gives us the “please move” look. Next time, just take a step back!

Slamming the Locker Doors

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After a tough workout, it’s easy to slam those locker doors a bit harder than intended. The echoing BANG might as well be a firecracker in the locker room. We’ve all done it, but a gentle close keeps the peace for everyone.

Going Overboard on Gym Selfies

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A workout pic or two is totally okay. A full-on photoshoot in front of the squat rack? Maybe not. We’ve all snapped a gym selfie, but hogging space for the perfect lighting might make you that person. Snap, smile, and move on!

Using Equipment Incorrectly

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Not sure how that machine works? We’ve all hopped onto a piece of equipment and faked it until we (hopefully) figured it out. While it’s harmless at the moment, asking for a quick demo or watching a tutorial can prevent future gym mishaps.

Grunting Loudly

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You’re lifting heavy, and a grunt slips out. No big deal! But when your grunts start echoing across the gym floor, it’s a different story. We’ve all unintentionally turned a bit too “beast mode” at some point—just maybe dial it back a notch.

Trying to Chat Mid-Workout

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The intentions are good—being friendly is great—but catching someone mid-rep to chat? Not the best timing. We’ve all been on both sides of this: either initiating the chat or struggling to respond while benching. Save the convo for cooldowns!

Leaving Machines on Heavy Settings

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Ever left a machine in a super heavy setting for the next person to struggle with? It happens. We get so caught up in our reps that we forget to reset it. A quick adjustment afterward is a small act of kindness for the next gym-goer.

Rushing Through the Last Set

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It’s easy to speed through the last set when you’re exhausted. Maybe you’ve been guilty of sloppy form when the finish line is in sight. But rushing too much can lead to injury. It’s okay to slow down and make sure you finish strong and safe.

Getting Distracted by Cute Gym Gear

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Bright leggings, snazzy sneakers—sometimes the gym feels like a fashion show. We’ve all found ourselves admiring someone’s cute outfit mid-lunge. It’s totally fine to appreciate a good gym style, but don’t be rude by staring at someone!

Wearing Inappropriate Footwear

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Sporting the wrong shoes at the gym can lead to discomfort or even injury. We’ve all seen someone walk in with flip-flops or non-supportive sneakers. It’s a good idea to wear proper workout shoes to shield your feet and ensure you can achieve workouts safely.

Using Too Much Chalk

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Chalk can help with grip, but using excessive amounts can leave a mess and annoy other gym-goers. We’ve all seen the “chalk explosion” at the weightlifting station. Use just enough for your workout, and be mindful of cleaning up after yourself.

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