January is the busiest month for gyms, with more people hitting the treadmills in a bid to keep up their New Year’s resolutions.
But it can be difficult for anyone new to know how to conduct themselves correctly.
Fortunately etiquette bible Debrett’s has released its guide on the do’s and dont’s of gym behaviour to help novices with their workouts.
It reveals why you should avoid making too much eye contact with fitness fans while they’re using a machine – but do consider approaching them at the water fountain.
The advice could even help land you a date, Debrett’s claims…
If you’re keen to make an impression at the gym, top etiquette experts Debrett have shared their top tips on how to conduct yourself in the gym. File image
Don’t ogle
The gym can be a great place for fitness fans to meet as they know they already have something in common.
But Debrett’s, who produced the guide in collaboration with Freya, advises to resist the urge of checking out anyone who catches your eye.
Debrett’s advise: ‘Attempts to make meaningful eye contact across a crowded gym floor can be misconstrued, so keep your gaze to yourself. Watching someone else’s workout will only make them feel uncomfortable.
‘If you do want to approach someone, choose your moment wisely. Initiating friendly conversation at the water fountain is likely to reap more rewards than breathlessly yelling your chat-up line over the noise of neighbouring treadmills.’
Be sure to wipe down any machines after using them so other gym users can workout too
Don’t forget to wipe down
It might seem simple, but an incredible 18 per cent of gym-goers surveyed by Debrett’s and Freya admitted they never wipe down machines after using them.
This is not only unhygienic but is also desperately anti-social – and will likely put off any potential new gym friends.
‘There’s nothing worse than finding sweaty handprints and drip-marks on your machine, Debrett’s explains.
‘You might think that you barely break a sweat when you work out, but spare a thought for others and use paper towels and some hygiene spray to clean up after your workout.’
Do pay attention to silent signals
Britons might not be known for their fondness of small talk with strangers, but 42 per cent of respondents said they would like to strike up a conversation in the gym.
However it is important to choose the right moment if you want to give your fledgling friendship the best chance of thriving.
Debrett’s suggests: ‘If you’re keen to make friends with your fellow fitness fans, take your cue from silent signals: if somebody is listening to music or appears to be very focused on their workout, leave them to it.
‘If, on the other hand, they look like they’re open to some friendly conversation, feel free to approach, armed with a smile and an opening gambit.’
‘Take your cue from silent signals: if somebody is listening to music or appears to be very focused, leave them to it’
Do resist the selfie
Debrett’s comments: ‘When you’ve had a great workout, it’s tempting to share a photo of your endorphin-rich glow on Snapchat or Instagram.
‘Other gym-users might not appreciate your #fitspo, however, particularly if you capture them in the background straining with a set of weights or in the middle of an unflattering lunge.
‘If you need the encouragement and motivation of your social network, keep any selfie-taking brief and discreet, and make sure your post doesn’t feature any unwilling participants.’
‘Refrain from waiting beside a treadmill as it will make its occupant feel pressurised into winding up their workout’