Summary
Gym etiquette is essential for creating a respectful and enjoyable workout environment. This blog highlights the most annoying habits gym-goers encounter, from grunting and failing to wipe down equipment to crowding others and taking loud phone calls. By avoiding these faux pas, you can ensure a better experience for yourself and those around you.
A gym is a holy place for people who like to workout and stay fit. There are some rules and etiquettes of every holy place. In this list, we got some for you. We spoke to a few fitness enthusiasts and influencers and curated a list of most annoying things at gym that people do.
1. Grunting
People (mostly dudes) breathing out heavily or hoot when they lift. It is unnecessary from a physical standpoint and distracting to others.
2. Creeping Out People
Men who openly stare at women lifting weights, often in the squat racks.3. Not Putting Equipment Back
People who do not put equipment, weights, mats, etc. back after using.4. Blasting Music
Please keep your music at a reasonable level - not everyone needs to hear the song you're playing when you're working out. Just because you have headphones on doesn't mean that people can't hear your tunes.5. Talking on the Phone
If you have to take a call, be courteous and step away from the main floor. Otherwise, stick to texting or better yet focus on your workout and detach from technology a little bit.6. Making a Conversation
Walking up to a stranger and initiating a chat. Most people are not there to socialize.7. Incorrect Workout
People who don't ask for help when they don't know something! Working out incorrectly is dangerous. Ask a personal trainer who is working with someone else, or better yet go to the desk and ask for help. No one wants someone to get hurt at their gym.8. Not Wiping Down Equipment
Nothing's worse than sitting down on someone else's sweat, or touching it.9. Working Out Too Close to the Weight Rack
Move aside or at least leave us some space to pick a couple of dumbbells.10. Slamming Weights
Control the weight on a machine and don't let the weights drop or clank every time you do a rep. It's loud and disruptive, plus you're likely not using good form if that happens whenever you work out. Plus, it can hurt someone or break the weights.11. Crowding Someone
If someone is using the equipment you want, ask them how much longer they have and give them their space to finish up.12. Coming to Gym Sick
If you're sick, stay home and rest up. If not thinking for yourself, think for others.13. Singing Loudly
Even if you sing well, you still will be the most annoying person at the gym.14. Interrupting While Working Out
Let them finish their workout, then you can ask how long they will be.15. Wearing Inappropriate Clothes 
You haven't done anything to anyone here. Fair point! But it is still annoying! 5 Reasons to Invest in Gym Wear
16. Taking Selfies
Do your friends really want or need to see a picture of you at the gym? Think twice before stopping to snap.18. Stinking
Never wear a piece of gym wear twice without washing.19. Excessive Sweat
Keep a towel if you sweat a lot. Don't leave the equipment sweaty when you are done.20. Naked in the Change Room
Guys walking around naked in the locker room and sauna - Not sure why it only seems to be older guys, but use a towel!
21. Hogging Multiple Equipment
Nothing wrong with using multiple machines, just let others jump in with you.22. Here for Entertainment
One can easily tell your motivation if you are there for entertainment. Leave the equipment if you are just on it to use your phone, shuffling music, or playing games.23. Working Out in the Way
24. Eating
Just not acceptable at any gym. Don't be that guy or girl at the gym. Be respectful to others and have some gym etiquette.
We would like to thank Meghan Stevenson, Lindsey Mathews, Allison Jackson, Robert S. Herbst, Antonella Pisani and David Bennett - for adding to our list.
FAQs
What is the obnoxious gym habit that is becoming a real problem?
One habit that’s increasingly bothersome is people blasting music loudly on their headphones, which still manages to disturb others. It’s distracting and unnecessary, as the gym should be a focused space, not a concert hall.
What is a poor etiquette in a gym?
Poor gym etiquette includes not wiping down equipment after use. Leaving behind sweat not only grosses others out but also creates an unhygienic environment, making this a top complaint among gym-goers.
What are some problems in the gym?
Gym problems often stem from a lack of spatial awareness, like blocking access to the weight rack or crowding others during their sets. These behaviors disrupt the flow of the workout and inconvenience others, especially in busy gyms.
What are the habits that annoy you the most?
Annoying habits include taking phone calls on the gym floor, hogging multiple machines, or engaging in loud, unnecessary grunting. These actions disrupt others’ workouts and create a frustrating environment.
