What does 'working in' mean?

It means taking turns on the same machine. You do your set while they rest, and vice versa. It's efficient and friendly. Just help them change the weights back for their turn.

Do I literally have to wipe down EVERYTHING?

If your skin touched it or sweat dripped on it: Yes. If you just touched a dumbbell handle with your hands: Usually no, unless you are super sweaty. But benches and mats? Always wipe.

Welcome to the Gym (The Rules)

Walking into a gym for the first time can be intimidating. Everyone seems to know what they are doing.

Relax. Most people are focused on themselves. But there are unwritten rules. Follow these, and you will be respected instantly, no matter how much you lift.

The Golden Rules

Rule	Why it Matters	The Verdict
Re-Rack Your Weights	Leaving weights on the bar forces the next person to clean up after you.	MANDATORY. If you can lift it, you can put it back.
Don't Hoard Equipment	Using 3 machines at once during peak hours is selfish.	Stick to one station when the gym is busy.
No Bluetooth Speakers	Nobody wants to hear your playlist.	Headphones only. Always.
Step Away from the Rack	Doing curls directly in front of the dumbbell rack blocks everyone else.	Grab your weights and take 3 steps back.

Hygiene & Personal Space

The Towel/Wipe Down: Most gyms have spray bottles. Use them. Nobody wants to lay in your sweat puddle.
Deodorant: Please. Before you train.
Personal Space: Don't stand directly behind someone squatting or deadlifting. It's distracting and unsafe if they fail a rep.

How to Interact

Asking "How many sets?"

Wait for them to rack the weight. Make eye contact.

You: "Hey, how many sets do you have left?"
Them: "About 3."
You: "Cool, mind if I work in? Or I can wait."

Working In

Sharing is caring. If someone asks to work in with you, say yes unless you are doing something complex (like giant supersets). It's a great way to make gym friends.

Creating a Positive Environment

We were all beginners once.

If you see someone struggling with safety (like trapping themselves under a bench press), help them.
If you see someone doing an exercise weirdly but safely, leave them alone. Unsolicited advice is rarely welcome.

The gym is a shared space for self-improvement. Treat it (and the people in it) with respect, and you'll fit right in.

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FREQUENTLY_ASKED_QUESTIONS

Yes! It is polite. Wait until they finish their set (don't ask mid-rep). If they have many sets left, ask: 'Mind if I work in?'