17 Gym Etiquette Tips

Make Proper Hygiene a Priority

A gym is a communal space, and for that reason, you don’t want your personal hygiene to hurt the experience of other people. People don’t want to work out next to someone who leaves equipment dirty, smells like they haven’t showered in years, or tosses their trash on the floor.

While a little bit of body odor is natural in a gym, you should do your best to practice personal hygiene before your workout. Wear clean workout clothes, use deodorant, and bring a small towel. Wipe sweat as you go so the equipment stays fresh for the next person.

Respect People’s Personal Space

Give people room to move safely. Set up your bench or mat so you are not blocking someone’s mirror view or exercise lane. On cardio rows and treadmills, leave a buffer area when machines are open so neighbors can focus.

Wipe Equipment Before and After Use

Clean benches, pads, handles, touchscreens, and attachments when you finish. Since sometimes other people forget to clean cardio or strength training equipment, it doesn’t hurt to do a quick wipe before you start.

Many gyms will have cleaning equipment or sanitation wipes available around their equipment to encourage people to wipe up after themselves. Make sure to use the gym’s cleaning supplies, and let staff know if the supplies are running low.

Re-Rack Weights Where They Belong

Return dumbbells to the correct slots and plates to the right pegs, light to heavy. Clear barbells and machines when you are done, so others can lift right away.

Follow Any Posted Rules

Each club has its own standards for chalk, filming, footwear, and lifting styles. Check signage and ask staff for guidance if you’re confused about any of the rules.

Place Bags and Bottles Out Of Traffic

Keep walkways, platforms, and rack fronts clear. Stash larger items in lockers so others can access equipment safely.

Watch the Clock on Busy Equipment

If you’ve noticed that a piece of equipment is being used constantly during your workout time, be mindful of its popularity when you use it. Stick to reasonable work and rest intervals (e.g., two or three sets, minute-long rests) before freeing up the station for someone else. If you need longer rest, step aside so someone else can get a set in.

Similarly, supersets and circuits are great, but they shouldn’t tie up two or three pieces of equipment when the floor is busy. Build a plan that fits one area and doesn’t cause you to hog equipment during a peak time.

Set Weights Down With Control

Lower dumbbells and barbells safely. Only drop weights where the gym allows it and when the flooring is designed for impact. When you’re unsure about the gym’s rules of dropping weights, put it down gently.

Use Headphones and Manage Volume

Keep music, videos, and timers in your ears. External audio distracts neighbors who are trying to focus.

Save Phone Calls for Later

If you’re using a bench or machine, you’ll start to get some side eyes if you’re on your phone instead of using the machine. Calls can be especially grating to others, as people won’t be interested in someone else’s conversation, and the person on the phone will be more distracted, which leads to equipment hogging.

Of course, it’s totally fine to use your phone to change a song or check a training note. Just avoid taking a call, typing out a long message, or scrolling mindlessly when you’re in the weight room and using equipment.

“Work In” Politely and Avoid Lurking

If you need a machine, wait at a respectful distance and ask about the wait (you can even ask to work in politely!). Lurking or pacing can make people uncomfortable and slow the flow.

Gym etiquette while you’re waiting for a machine comes down to simple, polite communication. If someone is waiting while you rest, offer to alternate sets. If you’re the one waiting, ask how many sets are left. Clear, friendly communication keeps workouts moving.

Lift Safely Around Others

Do not add or remove plates from a rack someone is using. Wait until their set ends before walking close, re-racking, or adjusting nearby equipment.

Be Respectful If You Film Yourself Working Out

If you record for form checks or for social media, keep the frame tight, avoid catching others in your shot, and skip tripods during busy hours. Honor no-video zones, and never film people without consent.

Dress for Safe Movement

Choose proper athletic shoes and well-fitting clothing that lets you move freely and protects upholstery on benches and machines. Avoid hardware that can snag benches or pads.

Give others privacy and space

Unless you’re watching a fitness competition, you shouldn’t be staring at someone in a gym. No one should have to feel like they’re being watched or creeped on by someone while they work out, and you don’t want to contribute to making someone feel uncomfortable.

Do your part to make everyone feel safe and respected at the gym by keeping your eyes focused on your next weight and not someone who’s just trying to get their workout in.

Move Free-Weight Work Away From the Rack

When you’re working out with free weights, grab your dumbbells or kettlebells before stepping back to a training zone. Crowding the weight rack blocks returns and creates congestion.

Stay Home When You’re Sick

Finally, rest is part of progress, and it protects fellow members. If you’re feeling sick, don’t come into the gym and potentially spread the illness to others. Come back when you feel fully recovered and can actually give your all during the workout.