Q: I may have to cancel my membership to my gym. Other gym visitors are really getting on my nerves. I was in the gym on Monday very early in the morning before work. In a row of 12 empty treadmills, this guy came in, hopped on the treadmill right next to me and started running. To make things worse, he smelled horrible, and his sweat kept slinging on me. Why do some people not know proper gym etiquette?
A: The same reason why some people talk with their mouths full or don’t thank you when you hold the door open for them. They were more than likely raised in a barn or by wolves. Somehow, along the way, they were never taught about common courtesy.
I call this annoying gym personality the “Space Invader.” He/she is always a little too close for comfort or rushing you on the equipment. Maybe these people have some sort of phobia, like autophobia, the fear of being alone. Doubtful.
As far as the smell goes, I call that gym personality you mentioned the “Polluter.” That is typically the person who keeps his or her gym clothes in a bag and recycles them all week, allowing them to marinate for an extra potent stench. These people are also the ones who refuse to wipe down the equipment after slopping sweat all over it.
I also often wonder why all gym showers smell just a little bit like pee. Just because you don't have to clean it doesn't mean anything goes. It's disgusting.
The “Don Juan,” or in some cases the “Donna Juan,” turns the gym into their personal pick-up spot. I laugh out loud when I see a woman walk in the gym in designer workout clothing with perfect makeup and hair, wearing her diamonds.
Really? You are there to sweat. I also hate that some people can't get the hint that most visitors don't like to be approached at the gym. Wearing headphones and avoiding eye contact should be a clue.
And finally ... one of my favorites: The “Amplifier.” Excessive grunting, yelling and screaming while lifting weights much too heavy is an attempt to garner attention.
To answer your question honestly: If you don't want to be around people when you work out, you should probably invest in a home gym or take your physical exercise to the great outdoors. It's easier to avoid the undesirables in the wide open.
