Gym Etiquette by DCFL Staff

Our staff has compiled a list of twelve tips to make every visit to the gym pleasant for yourself, fellow members, and staff!

1. Don’t reserve equipment by putting belongings on it and walking away. This goes for gym equipment, mat tables, pool lanes and shower stalls
2. Place personal items in a locker. This protects your personal property and keeps clutter away from the fitness floor. Leaving your personal items on the floor is a trip hazard.
3. Limit cell phone use and take phone calls away from others. Phone calls and FaceTime in the facility are distracting to others.
4. Be mindful of your surroundings. Check the space around you before starting any large movements like kettlebell swings, farmer carries, walking lunges, side steps, etc.
5. Put everything back where it belongs. Our rule of thumb – if you can lift it, you can put it back! This includes re-racking your weights on the bench press and leg press. Also, if you wrap the emergency cord in the showers (which we highly discourage), please unwrap it
   when you are finished.
6. Clean machines and equipment after use. Wipes are located throughout the facility.
7. Practice good personal hygiene and don’t come when you are sick. Be sure to wash your hands after your visit to the gym! Most importantly, stay home if you feel sick or have had a fever in the last 24 hours.
8. Avoid wearing or using perfume, cologne, scented lotions. Your fellow members may have sensitivities to these scents, even if it is mild.
9. Walkers should use the inside lanes, runners outside lane on the track. If you need to pass, do so on the right.
10. Arrive to class on time so you don’t disrupt the instructor or fellow participants. The beginning of class sets the tone. We recommend arriving 5-10 minutes prior to the beginning of class.
11. Allow others to use equipment during your rest breaks. If others are waiting, let them work in a set while you rest. You can meet a new workout buddy this way!
12. Be flexible about your workout if the gym is busy. The perfect time to try new things! Our Exercise Physiologists are happy to show you a new piece of equipment or help you choose a new class.