Work muscles, not people’s nerves

The word aerobics came about when the gym instructors got together and said, “If we’re going to charge $10 an hour, we can’t call it jumping up and down.”

— Rita Rudner

In the quest for better health and fitness, I’ve spent a lot of time trying to hold on to my motivation.

More healthful eating has gotten easier. But some days it is all I can do to put on my workout clothes and get to the recreation center, which is only about five minutes away.

I enjoy the camaraderie of working out alongside others, even if I don’t know them. I can exercise at home, but then it seems easier for me to plop down on the sofa and not get back up.

I know I’m not alone in the lack of motivation department. Gyms and health clubs make a mint from members who pay and never come back. Their contracts and cancellation procedures can be unforgiving.

I have to take my foot problems into consideration too. I can’t really walk for exercise, so I have to find low-impact activities that challenge me. That’s where the machines at the center come in handy.

Some people can get motivation from keeping an exercise diary. I’m not fond of journaling, but I know those who are. It can help track things and remind them they’re making progress.

After each workout, it helps if I savor the good feelings that my effort gives me. Reflecting on the accomplishment makes me feel better about myself.

I people-watch at the center and enjoy seeing the different ways they approach selfinflicted discomfort. Some focus on treadmills and elliptical machines, while others focus on the free weights and weight machines. I do both.

It demonstrates that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to exercise and fitness. It’s whatever is safe and enjoyable for the individual that counts.

PLAY NICE

From time to time while working out I notice things people do that are not considered good gym etiquette. It’s important to be considerate of others.

The center has posted signs to remind people to wipe off the machines after they’re done. The center even provides wet wipes, but it’s amazing how many people don’t wipe up.

Ew. No one wants to sit in someone else’s sweat, and there are germs and skin diseases that can be transmitted.

Another thing that bugs me are those who create earthquakes by dropping heavy weights instead of placing them quietly back on the rack or on the floor. It’s startling.

I figure that things like this are an issue at most places where people work out, so I did a little digging and found several websites that offered tips on gym etiquette. It should be common sense, but some people don’t seem to get it.

Returning free weights, medicine balls and other equipment to their proper storage spots is considerate. It will contribute to less toe stubbing. No one should have to hunt for equipment someone else didn’t put back.

If people are wearing headphones, it’s pretty clear that they don’t want to mingle. But if you do listen to music, remember others probably don’t want to hear yours.

It’s not middle school, so don’t try and call “dibs” on that elliptical by placing your water bottle or towel on it while you wander off.

A treadmill is not the place to carry on phone conversations. It’s one thing to use a fitness app while working out, but jabbering away is annoying to those nearby.

Be respectful of people around you by not getting into their comfort zones. If you’re in an exercise class, watch spacing so you’re not improperly touching others.

Don’t monopolize the equipment. Most gyms have an adequate supply, but if not, it’s nice to share.

Do not ogle. No one wants to feel uncomfortable. But on the other side of the coin, it might be good to dress in clothes that don’t make people ogle.

Be polite and courteous. We may not feel happy while working out, but we can keep it to ourselves.