Stepping onto the workout floor for the first time — or even the 50th — can be overwhelming. With a maze of machines, clanking weights, and the often-unspoken flow of exercise etiquette, it’s no wonder many people feel intimidated. But the good news is that if you’re feeling this way, you’re not alone — and you’re not expected to know everything from day one.
“Experienced exercisers and Dynamic Personal Trainers can look intimidating because of how they seem to confidently navigate the workout floor or how much weight they are lifting,” says Joe Meier, CSCS, Personal Training Leader at Life Time in Eden Prairie, Minn. “But these are some of the nicest and most understanding people — and they want you to succeed. So, if you’re feeling nervous, don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations or directions on how something works.”
Whether you’re new to the workout floor or just want a refresher, Meier offers his top tips for navigating the flow of this space at your athletic country club.
1. Ask if you can “work in.”
Sharing equipment on the workout floor can be a challenge, especially during a busy time of day. However, Meier emphasizes communication and courtesy.
“Many don’t realize that it’s perfectly acceptable and even encouraged to ask someone if you can ‘work in’ with them when they’re on a machine you want to use,” he explains. “Most people need to rest at least 60 to 90 seconds between sets, so kindly asking a person who is on a machine if you can use the machine while they’re resting is proper etiquette. Take it one step further by noting the weight the person was using or the settings that they had on the machine (like seat height, for example). When you finish your set, you can thank them and return the machine to their preferred weights and machine settings.
“If you’d rather not alternate sets with another person, there is also nothing wrong with asking someone how many sets they have left,” Meier adds. “Just don’t ask while they are actively doing an exercise.”
2. Flag a trainer when you have a question or need help.
At Life Time, Dynamic Personal Trainers are present on the workout floor to help you, according to Meier, and he wants members to feel comfortable approaching one for anything they might need.
“Even trainers who are with a client really don’t mind if a member asks them a quick question about setting up a machine or where something is located, for example,” Meier says. “Just keep the conversation short and thank them afterward. You will not be a bother! There are no questions you should hesitate to ask. Every Life Time team member is there to help you feel confident and comfortable in the club.”
3. Be mindful when sharing space.
It’s important to make the workout floor a welcome space for everyone, and this includes being aware of how we share space when in close proximity with others. Be especially mindful about scents, for instance.
“We’re all sweating on the workout floor, but a quick swipe of deodorant can go a long way in keeping things comfortable for you and everyone around you,” says Meier. “On the other hand, heavy colognes or perfumes can be overwhelming in a space where people are breathing deeply and working hard, and it’s common for people to have sensitivities to fragrance, so try to be considerate of that too.”
4. Tidy your equipment when you’re done with it.
Another way to be respectful when sharing space with other members is to always put your equipment away when you’re finished using it.
“Taking a quick moment to put things back — like plates, dumbbells, or medicine balls, for example — helps keep the workout floor safe from tripping hazards and means that equipment will be accessible for the next person who wants to use it,” says Meier.
“It’s also proper etiquette to wipe down machines when you’re done using them, as well as yoga mats or any other equipment that you may get sweat on,” he adds. “Stations with cleaning wipes are available throughout the workout floor for this purpose.”
5. Stay present while occupying an exercise machine.
Using the machines on the workout floor efficiently can have a big impact on keeping the workout floor running smoothly.
“I sometimes see people sitting on a machine while scrolling on their phone or making a call, and this can slow down or prevent others from being able to get their desired workout in, especially during busier times,” says Meier. “We all get notifications, and taking a glance is no big deal. But to be respectful of all members, be sure to save your scrolling and texting for after your workout. Being present will also help you be more efficient in your own workout — both in the time it takes you as well as what you get out of it. People who are actively on their phones are often less engaged in their form or exertion, for example.”
6. Leave room for others to move around you.
One simple habit that makes a big difference when it comes to supporting the flow of the workout floor is to avoid blocking access to equipment while you’re doing your own exercises.
“The dumbbell rack, for example, is for all members to use, so standing right in front of it during your workout can make it difficult for others to grab what they need,” Meier explains. “Simply taking a few steps back can give everyone the room they need for safe and efficient workouts.”
