Workout rules

Don’t sweat it! Follow our guide to good manners at the gym.

Follow our guide to good manners at the gym

MOBILE PHONES

If you must keep your phone with you, keep calls short – no-one wants to hear your business or bestie chat while on the treadmill or waiting for a spin class.

WAITING FOR A MACHINE

If you notice the person on the machine is not finishing up, politely ask, “How much longer do you think you’ll be?” “But don’t linger,” suggests Michael Cunico, National Fitness Manager for Fitness First Australia. “There’s nothing worse than feeling watched and rushed to finish your sets.”

LEAVING A CLASS EARLY

Before the class, let the instructor know, and choose a position close to the door. If it’s an emergency or you’re not feeling well, exit mid-class as discreetly as possible.

CHATTING DURING A WORKOUT

Read the room. “If most people on the gym floor are wearing headphones, that’s usually a signal they want to focus on the pace and form of their workout without stopping for conversation,” Michael says. If someone is overly chatty? Try saying, “It’s nice talking, but I’m going to stop now before I run out of breath.”

UNSOLICITED ADVICE

Say, “Thank you for the advice,” and leave it at that. It’s not appropriate for anyone to offer tips unprompted, but keep in mind that they’re often given with good intentions. If the behaviour continues, don’t engage.