Gym Etiquette 101
1.Don’t stand in front of someone who is lifting
For a lot of new lifters, there is some surprise when they are asked to move / get out of the way by someone who is lifting or a training partner. It’s hard to focus on your lifting when there is someone fidgeting or having a discussion directly in front of you. Please don’t stand in front of someone while they lift. This includes quickly ducking in to grab a plate or a collar – don’t do it. You can wait 20 seconds for them to finish the set.
Should you find yourself in the dreaded ‘jinx’ squat rack scenario – where both you and the lifter opposite you have started getting ready to squat at the same time – do not break eye contact. Will them to acquiesce the rack to you.
2. The chalk is in the bucket for a reason
Yes, chalk is generally messy and gets everywhere. It’s a pain in the ass to clean up. So please – don’t strew it all over the gym while you chalk up outside of the bowl. Don’t put half a block of chalk on your hands if you know you’re going to clap it off .5 seconds later, just use less chalk man. I’m not talking about the standard chalk clap, that’s all good, but if someone with asthma has to back away from you while you’re chalking up – you have a problem.
3. Pack up your stuff
Put it back where you got it. You aren’t a child, put it back. Every plate, every collar, every foam roller/hockey ball/wrist wrap. If you use a pen, put it back in the cup you took it from when you’re done. This is related to #4 (respect the equipment/facility) but your coach is not a maid and your momma raised you better.
4. Respect the equipment/facility
Treat the equipment like you spent your hard earned money on it. If you make a mess (spill your water, knock over the chalk etc) then clean it up.
Follow these simple guidelines and you will be welcome in pretty much any training facility on the planet! Happy lifting 😀
#byliftersforlifters