A new year brings new goals and challenges. Losing weight (or exercising more) is at the top of the "goal" list for most adults. If you have joined a gym recently in order to meet your new year's resolution - listen up. Treating fellow gym members with courtesy and respect is just as important in the gym as it is outside of the gym.
1. Follow time limits on exercise equipment - especially if you go to the gym during peak hours. It is discourteous to keep your fellow gym members waiting for popular equipment.
2. Wipe down the equipment after using it with a towel. Most gyms provide spray and paper towel - use it. Stop the spread of germs especially during the flu season.
3. Do not reserve a piece of equipment by placing your towel or water bottle next to it.
4. Put your weights away after you have used them. Although you may want to show off how much you can bench press to the person behind you, leaving your weights on the bar will only anger them.
5. Keep your chatter clean. Refrain from using swear words and gossiping about others. Remember, you are in a public place.
6. Keep your cell phone in the change room. Talking on your cell could be disruptive to other members.
7. Avoid arriving late to exercise class. There is nothing more annoying and disruptive than a noisy latecomer interrupting the flow of the class - especially when the class is busy and crowded.
8. Leave the locker room in the same condition it was when you arrived. Place used towels in their appropriate locations, wipe down the shower before you leave it, clean up the sink area after you have used it.
9. Do not monopolize a mirror, hair dryer or other accessories that are supposed to be shared by members. Get ready quickly and efficiently.
10. Try to avoid walking around the locker room naked. Modesty is always the best policy.
