During the induction, you'll be given a demonstration of facilities and equipment that's on offer and chances are the rules of that specific gym will explained to you in-depth, which you must adhere to at all times if you want to ensure that your membership isn't cancelled.
It's unlikely, however, that you'll be told about general gym etiquette - rules that apply to any type of gym around the world - and therefore it's important that you familiarise yourself with the etiquette before you attend
Fully gym etiquette can be somewhat of an extensive list, but if you are to follow the following five points - arguably the most notable etiquette points - the rest should come with time and you should be able to pick them up as you go along.
1. Never think that any piece of gym equipment is yours. Everyone else who pays their membership is entitled to use the equipment just as much as you are and it's therefore important that you don't just stay on one machine for longer than 30 minutes if it looks as though other people might be wanting to use it.
2. Whilst it's recommended that you have a shower once you've worked out so that you're clean and sweat free, it's advised that you're as clean as possible before you start working out in dirty, smelly clothes are a no no.
3. Gyms might be social areas for some, but there are plenty of people who want to do nothing more than work out.
Due to this reason, don't automatically assume that everyone wants to talk and also don't take it personally if someone gives you a bit of a cold shoulder - exercising can be an intensive process for some.
4. One of the most important pieces of gym etiquette that you have to keep in mind is that you should always return the piece of equipment that you have just been using to its default setting.
Whether that's removing any weights from a certain machine or lowering the incline on a treadmill, it may have been suited to you during your exercise, but it could be completely unsuitable - not to mention dangerous - for someone else.
And don't forget to wipe down the machine, either - no one wants to be using a piece of equipment that's full of someone else's sweat.
5. Not asking for help is one of the pet peeves of many experienced gym members, as it's not only dangerous, but it can be extremely time consuming and hold everyone else up.
If you're struggling with a certain piece of equipment, ask a gym instructor for some help. Failing that, don't hesitate to ask another gym member, preferably someone that isn't in the middle of exercising.
