There is certain gym etiquette that members should follow but every now and then there will be people who refuse to follow and be labeled a dumb-ass or pest (“dumb-ass” is the exact word my bodybuilder friends use. “Pest” is my nicer version of “dumb-ass.”). I hit the gym around four times a week in Hong Kong now and simply can’t help but come up with these rules. They are unspoken, but are supposed to be understood. Since some people don’t get them, I’m making them black and white and hopefully my gym would adopt them in the near future.
- No yelling or making unnecessary noises when lifting weights. If you can’t lift that heavy without yelling, then choose lighter sets
- No dropping weights after every set.
- No stretching on the treadmills. There are proper stretching machines and stations everywhere in the gym.
- No running around in the gym. This is not a kids’ playground.
- No hanging out at the gym. Long and frequent conversations should be kept at the refreshment area or restaurants outside the gym.
- No walking around naked in the changing room, unless you are super beautiful and slender.
- Practice your poses at home, not in front of a mirror during busy hours in the gym.
- Re-rack and return the weights, mats, exercise balls or whatever you used.
- Keep your belongings and shoes in the locker, not on the bench or floor.
- Drop the used towels in the designated areas. There are no gym maids to clean up after you.
I agree with all the rules except for 5 and 6. You can have long conservations at the gym, just actually be using equipment as opposed to just talking or getting in the way of others. Your 6th rule is a reflection of how the media and marketing has made us only appreciate certain body types. You should be comfortable in your own skin and others especially since you’re in the bloody changing room / (typically…) shower room. I think your response might in part be due to cultural difference too. Europe and Asia seem to be much open about nudity in the changing rooms. You should go to an old school gym (“老會”) like the South China Sporting Association in Causeway Bay to see what I mean.
Thank you for reading this post! There’s a place and time for everything. While others are trying to focus on exercising or enjoying the workout atmosphere, it’s a bit inconsiderate for those who talk loudly incessantly, including those who are on the phone for long conversations. As for the other point, it’s more of a joke/sarcasm…;) but seriously I think it’s a courtesy to walk around with something or wrap a towel around the body. Not everybody wants to look at naked bodies especially when they are not exactly pleasant to the eyes…