The Golden Rule for a Better Gym Experience One piece of gym etiquette I wish everyone followed is wiping down equipment after use. In my strength training sessions, nothing dampens the mood faster than grabbing a barbell or bench soaked in someone else's sweat. Once, I got up early for a busy Monday workout, only to find the squat rack looking like a post-rain jungle gym-it was gross and frustrating. When people take a few seconds to clean up, it keeps things sanitary and shows respect for others sharing the space. It fosters a positive environment where everyone feels comfortable pushing their limits without worrying about hygiene. Plus, it's a small habit that says, "I care about the community here," making the gym experience better for everyone.
I wish everyone would remember that every person is on their own journey. Whether someone is lifting heavy weights or just starting with basic movements, offering encouragement or simply giving them space to work builds a more supportive environment. This mindset fosters mutual respect and reduces feelings of intimidation, helping everyone feel comfortable and motivated to focus on their own progress. A positive gym culture starts with acknowledging and respecting the unique goals and paths of others.
Don't splash so much in the pool. As Terry Laughlin explains in his Total Immersion swimming books (and as any physicist will confirm), the most effective swimming method is founded on one simple action: reducing drag or resistance. Propulsion is only effective when this first step is taken. So you want to maintain a pencil shape, just below the surface of the water, for as long as possible. When swimming this way, and relaxing, you soon enter 'the zone' and swimming becomes effortless. I've had other swimmers ask me how I swim so fast with so little effort, and how they can learn about my technique. But excessive splashing plays havoc with the total immersion technique. You can't breathe properly, and all the frenetic movements and impatience make it very difficult to stay in the zone. If people in gym pools observed the etiquette of not splashing too much, and learned a bit about the best way to swim, then the pools would be much more pleasant places for everyone.