Gym Etiquette For The Beginner, Because No One Likes Poor Manners

It may have been a while since you last hit the gym. If your last session included some unsightly Lycra and a Madonna soundtrack then chances are you in need of a swift update.

While you may not be there to make friends, no one wants to be faced with the wrath of unimpressed gym goers. So here are 5 non-negotiable rules to abide: (In no particular order, though if we're really being honest the towel tops the list) 

1. Arrive with towel in hand:  Ensure you carry a towel at all times and wipe down any equipment you use. This is a matter of health and hygiene after all. You wouldn't want to sit in someone else's sweat patch so as the saying goes 'Do unto others as you would have them do unto you'. 

2. Share the equipment, because no one likes a hog: You may have a favourite piece of equipment and whilst it would be ideal to spend an hour on it, you should alternate between machines. Allowing others to use the equipment, especially during peak hours is essential. Instead of sitting down in between reps go for a brief walk and let someone else use the machine instead. 

3. Arrive early to your classes: When it comes to gym classes there is no such thing as fashionably late, even if decked out head to toe in Adidas by Stella McCartney. Your tardiness will not only disrupt the flow of the class, but chances are you will miss out on a prime position and at times the necessary equipment needed. 

4.Cancel your session if you can’t make it. With gym classes filling up faster than ever, you don’t want to be responsible for someone else missing out. Not only will you be faced with unnecessary glares from the instructors next time you attend, but you also may be charged with many gyms starting to implement cancellation fees.

5.Leave it the way you found it: Return your weights, medicine balls, matts and other equipment where you found it. Not only will you prevent an accident waiting to happen and glares from the front desk staff as you leave (because all gyms have cameras after all) but you will burn a few extra calories in the process.