New Year resolution 2018:Thou shalt follow gym etiquette

Determined to hit the gym as the New Year begins? Well, you ought to know the basic gym manners, because let’s face it... it’s the BASIC gym manners!

Hitting the gym with a vengeance at the beginning of the New Year, is one of the most clichéd New Year resolutions that everyone makes. And this is probably the reason why January feels like Armageddon season. With gyms becoming overcrowded, maintaining decorum is a bit problematic to say the least. So, if you don’t want the gym to turn into a full-fledged zoo, it’s imperative that you follow a few basic gym etiquette. We got in touch with fitness experts Amaresh Ojha, gympik and Praayrit Dahiya, fitpass, who give us 5 commandants of gym etiquette.

With gyms becoming overcrowded, maintaining decorum is a bit problematic to say the least. So, if you don’t want the gym to turn into a full-fledged zoo, it’s imperative that you follow a few basic gym etiquettes.

1) No harm in asking

If someone is using the equipment that you need, then politely ask before using it. It’s extremely rude if you suddenly jump in and start using the equipment or the weights that someone is already using. Doing this can result in conflict in the gym. Always give people their space. This will ensure that people don’t get injured while working out. Imagine you are squatting and someone comes in and takes the weight off your smith machine or accidentally crams into you?

2) Please re-rack your weights

The number one rule of every gym is to re-rack your weights. Dumbbells once used, should be re-racked. If you don’t re-rack your dumbbells, then you risk other people getting injured. If the dumbbells are lying around here and there, then there is a risk of people tripping over them and hurting themselves. Similarly, if you put extra weight on machines like leg press, then you can take them out too. It’s considered rude to leave weight on the machines. Also, don’t work out near the dumbbell rack, so that other people can easily access the rack. Remember, do the workout and use the equipment in the areas designated to them. Also, don’t grunt or moan while you pick up weights, its annoying.

3) Maintain hygiene

If you are going to work out, then it’s obvious you are going to sweat. However, the problem is not the sweat, but not being hygienic enough and smelling bad. Use a deodorant and always wash your gym apparel. Also, bring your own towel in the gym. If you don’t maintain hygiene in the gym, you are likely to catch infection. Also, once you have used the equipment, make sure you wipe off your sweat by using the gym cloth.

4) Mobile phones and selfies

It’s always better to drop your phone at the counter or keep it in your locker, otherwise it becomes a hassle in your pocket, as you can drop it or misplace it. When it comes to selfies, as long as you don’t disturb anyone, it’s fine. And never ever text when you are in the gym, you might just cause an accident.

5)Resist giving free advice

Just because you have been hitting the gym for a while, it doesn’t qualify you as an expert. Therefore, avoid giving suggestions or advice to anyone, it’s not your job, it’s the trainers. Your ‘words of wisdom’ could prove to be incorrect or may even result in harmful accidents.