What is appropriate gym etiquette?

A common question I am often asked is:

I’ve never been to a gym before and I just got a membership… What is appropriate gym etiquette?

Whether you’re an expert exerciser or you’re just starting out, there are some unspoken rules that all of us should know:

  • Share. If you’re doing multiple sets on a machine, it’s common courtesy to let others in during your rest periods.
  • Clean up after yourself. Leaving your sweat behind is not only gross, it’s disrespectful. We provide towels for you to use while you’re exercising and have disinfectant spray bottles placed visibly throughout the club. If you leave sweat streaks on a machine, wipe it down.
  • Put your tools away. If you put 300 pounds of plate load on an incline chest press, stack up a step to do plyometrics, use a resistance band or a Bosu, put them away when you’re finished.
  • Use common sense. If you’ve been on a cardio machine for 30 minutes and there are others waiting (most likely someone will inquire, “how much time do you have left”),  it’s time to get off and move on. Cross training is more beneficial and chances are, the stairclimbers are open for use.

Should I Choose a Treadmill or a Stairclimber?

I am looking to purchase either a treadmill or a stairclimber.  Which would you choose? What features should I look for in a treadmill?

Both are cardiovascular machines meant to increase heart rate and burn calories and fat.  It’s a personal choice.  Stairclimbing is a more advanced exercise and requires more endurance than walking, but if you are planning to run and walk using a treadmill, then either would provide appropriate training for your cardiovascular system.  I would recommend getting either piece on a 30 day trial to be sure you like what you’re getting and that you’ll make a commitment to actually using it.  We have good intentions, but more often than not, home equipment gets used as a clothes rack more than it gets used for exercise.

At Fit for Life, we have both treadmills and stairclimbers in addition to recumbent bikes, Arc Trainers and Elliptical Runners for cardiovascular exercise.  Remember, the more choices you have, the more benefit you receive and the less likely you are to get bored with your routine.  Plus, you have the option of taking group classes, you have camaraderie and professional staff available to answer all your questions.  Choose a piece of equipment for 30 days on trial and come to Fit for Life for 1 week FREE and then make your final decision.