July 23, 2024

Gym Etiquette: 8 Do’s and Don’ts for Condominium Gyms

By: Melecio Martin G. Arranz IV

Condo living is the epitome of convenience and modernity. Condos add to the appeal of urban life, with their strategic locations in prime areas and range of amenities at residents’ fingertips. 

Among the amenities that make condos a sought-after choice, gyms make it easier to include exercise in your daily routine. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast or a beginner, having a gym mere steps away from your residence lets you stay on top of your health. 

But before you can move forward on your fitness journey, keep these rules of gym etiquette in mind for a more enjoyable workout experience.

Gym Etiquette: 8 Do’s and Don’ts for Condominium Gyms

From green spaces to gyms, condos have everything that can help you keep a healthy mind and body. However, going on your fitness journey within the shared space of a condo gym requires respect and consideration for fellow residents. Ideally, you practice these do’s and don’ts and other unspoken rules to ensure a harmonious and effective workout experience.

The Do’s: 

1. DO handle equipment properly

Treat gym equipment with care. Not only does this gym etiquette help maintain the quality of equipment, but it also ensures the safety and comfort of fellow gym-goers and your own. When handling weights or using machines, avoid dropping or slamming them to avoid creating unnecessary noise and damaging the equipment.

Then, don’t just drop the equipment carelessly on the ground after completing a set of bench presses. Instead, carefully put it down or re-rack it to extend its lifespan and ensure other gym-goers can use it.

2. DO clean up after yourself

Maintaining cleanliness and orderliness in the gym is essential for the health and well-being of all users. After using the equipment, take the time to properly clean up after yourself by returning the weights to the racks and wiping down surfaces. You could also bring alcohol and a washcloth to disinfect the equipment and remove sweat.

Besides maintaining cleanliness, practicing gym etiquette shows respect for the next person who uses the equipment. It may even set an example for others to do the same.

3. DO wear the appropriate attire

While being as comfortable as possible can help your workout, the wrong attire can do more harm than good. For example, wearing too tight clothes can make it hard for you to breathe, risking injuries. So, come to the gym with your best and freshest workout clothes.

Opt for breathable and moisture-wicking fabrics for ease of movement. Clothes that are 100% cotton absorb sweat, which can lead to bacterial growth. As for workout shoes, choose those ideal for exercising and keep them clean to avoid unsightly footprints in the gym workout area.

4. DO focus on your workout

Maintaining a laser-like focus on your workout routine—form, breathing, and muscle engagement—can maximize results and reduce the risk of injuries. 

Avoid the temptation to observe or pass judgment on other people’s workouts. Your fellow gym-goers may perceive these as intrusive or distracting. Plus, minding your own business shows you respect the privacy of fellow gym-goers.

The Don’ts

1. DON’T hog the equipment

One of the cardinal rules of gym etiquette is to be mindful of others and avoid monopolizing equipment for extended periods. It’s understandable if you take short breaks between sets, but you must also be aware of others waiting to use the equipment. So, consider alternating sets with them so everyone has equal access to the equipment.

Sharing equipment promotes efficiency and courtesy within the gym. You may even meet a new gym buddy who can make your workout more enjoyable, creating a more inclusive and welcoming environment for all.

2. DON’T give unsolicited advice

You may be the type who likes to help people with their workouts, such as correcting their form or giving out tips that work for you. However, you must remember that not everyone welcomes unsolicited feedback. 

It may be tempting to offer advice or guidance, but you should still respect others’ autonomy in their fitness journey. Hold yourself back from advising unless someone asks, as others may take this the wrong way. Instead, lead by example through your actions and wait for them to ask you for help.

3. DON’T blast your music

Gym etiquette includes controlling the volume of your music. While you may enjoy listening to music as you work out, be mindful of its loudness and use headphones or earphones so you won’t disturb others in the gym. You can invest in reliable wireless headphones to enjoy your favorite workout playlist without imposing on others’ workout tunes.

4. DON’T take up other people’s space

Personal space boundaries are important in the gym. So, mind your surroundings and avoid intruding on others’ workout areas as much as possible. Maintain a reasonable distance from them to ensure everyone can exercise comfortably and without interference. 

Besides allowing everyone a more relaxed workout experience, this gym etiquette ensures you won’t bump into each other and cause accidents.

Creating a Positive Gym Experience in Your Condominium

Condo gyms make it easier to keep yourself fit and healthy with exercise. While convenient, understand they are a shared space that other residents use for their workouts. It’s best if you follow these rules of gym etiquette to help create a harmonious gym culture while meeting your fitness goals.

At Federal Land, one of the leading real estate developers in the Philippines, you can find a new home where you can have comfortable, effective workouts. Our properties in and around Metro Manila have well-equipped condo amenities that enhance your lifestyle and routines. 

Explore our website to learn more.