Gym etiquette 101: the unwritten rules every new member should know

Gym etiquette for beginners is much simpler than it might seem.

In this guide, we explain which gym etiquette rules are enforced at PureGym US, which are common courtesies, and even what to say during those potentially awkward equipment-sharing moments.

Quick Summary

• Gym etiquette is a mix of official gym rules and everyday courtesies that help everyone train safely and comfortably.
• At PureGym, returning weights, keeping bags off the gym floor, wearing appropriate workout clothes and shoes, and following filming policies are actual rules.
• During busy periods, be considerate about how long you use equipment and let other members work in between sets where practical.
• Wipe down equipment after using it and give other members enough room to exercise safely.
• Filming and photography have specific restrictions, particularly when other members could be captured.
• If you’re ever unsure about equipment or gym rules, ask a member of staff or a personal trainer.

Gym etiquette behaviors that are actually rules

Some things you may think of as good gym etiquette are actually house rules at PureGym.

Exact rules can vary slightly by location, so always check the rules posted at your gym. Here are some of the key rules members at PureGym locations in New York and New Jersey are expected to follow:

Members must return weights and equipment to the correct place

Returning weights and equipment after use helps keep walkways clear and workout areas safe, while making sure the next member can find the equipment they need. Dropping weights or failing to re-rack them can result in membership cancellation.

An easy habit to follow is to always return one item before picking up another.

Bags and large items are not permitted on the gym floor

Gym bags, backpacks, and other large personal items can create trip hazards. Store your belongings in a locker before starting your workout. PureGym is not responsible for lost or stolen items, so keep valuables with you or locked away rather than left out on the gym floor.

Don’t hog machines or equipment for long periods

Take the rest time you need, but during busy periods, be aware of whether other people are waiting and share equipment between sets where practical.

A survey of 2,000 people ranked taking over multiple pieces of equipment as the most annoying gym behavior, scoring 6.94 out of 10.

PureGym staff enforce this rule through floor monitoring and verbal warnings. Failure to abide by it can result in membership cancellation.

Jeans, boots, flip-flops, Crocs, sandals, slip-on shoes and work wear are not permitted

Appropriate clothing and footwear help you exercise safely. Check out our guide to what to wear to the gym.

Filming is only allowed in designated areas and only of yourself

Photography and filming are never permitted in locker rooms, and you shouldn’t capture other members without their consent. We’ll cover phone and filming etiquette in more detail below.

What to know about sharing equipment

Sharing equipment is one of the areas that can make new gym members feel most awkward. Knowing the basics will make things easier.

Re-racking

Good re-racking etiquette comes down to three simple rules:

• Return equipment to the right spot: Put dumbbells, plates, and other equipment back in the correct place and, where applicable, the correct weight order.
• Strip the bar completely when you’re done: Remove your plates from barbells and machines.
• Clear the area around the rack: Keep bags, weights, and other equipment away from the immediate lifting area to reduce trip hazards.

Working in

“Working in” simply means two people alternate sets on the same piece of equipment.

If someone is using a machine you need, wait until they’ve finished their set and ask: “Hey, do you mind if I work in between your sets?”

Sharing between sets during busy periods is encouraged, so asking isn’t an imposition.

Not sure if a machine is actually being used? Look for a towel, water bottle, or other personal item nearby and ask people in the area before assuming it’s available.

Don’t sit on a machine

It’s ok to rest between sets, but be mindful of spending a long time sitting on equipment when other members are waiting, especially during busy periods.

Hygiene and personal space etiquette

A little consideration goes a long way when you’re sharing a workout space with other people.

Wipe down equipment and keep things clean

Wipe down equipment after you use it, particularly benches, seats, and other surfaces you’ve been in contact with.

PureGym provides cleaning supplies for members, making it easy to leave equipment ready for the next person.

Use deodorant as a basic courtesy

Sweating is a completely normal part of working out, but using clean workout clothes, deodorant, and showering make the gym more comfortable for everyone.

Give other gym members space

Always leave enough room for someone to complete their exercise safely.

Avoid setting up directly behind or beside someone who is lifting and be especially careful when walking through free-weight areas.

Don’t stare at other gym members

In one survey, women ranked being approached or stared at as the second most annoying gym behavior, higher than men did.

Phones, photos and filming etiquette

When it comes to filming and photography, follow PureGym’s house rules:

• Never take photos or videos in changing facilities.
• Don’t record other members without their consent.
• Keep your setup from interfering with other people’s workouts.
• Don’t use tripods on the gym floor.

There are also a couple of unwritten courtesies worth remembering:
Taking a call on the gym floor: If you need to have a longer conversation, step away from busy workout areas where possible.
Scrolling between sets: Be aware of how long you’re occupying a machine. If someone is waiting while you’re taking a longer break, offer to let them work in.