Gym etiquette: 10 'rules' everyone should obey Published Aug. 20, 2015 By Staff Sgt. R.J. Biermann 31st Fighter Wing Public Affairs AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy -- Editor's note: Video material provided by Airmen 1st Class Chandler Baker and Lance Valencia. Now that the Wyvern Fitness Center is open 24/7 and is only manned from 2 to 8 p.m. on weekdays, it's important that all patrons obey the posted rules. Without order there is chaos, right? There are plenty of "rules" you'll never see posted. Here are just a few of the unspoken gym rules most veteran gym-goers won't break. 1. Clean up after yourself If you're a sweat monster, grab a wipe and clean up your perspiration pool from anything you've filthied up. This even includes the floor. Additionally, if you carry a bag or gym accessories, don't leave them in walkways, between equipment or on chairs or benches. 2. Re-rack your weights When you're done with a weight or piece of equipment, put it back where it belongs. As the saying goes, "A place for everything and everything in its place." This also tells others you're done using that item. 3. Please care, don't stare People often stare at others, for a number of reasons, none of which are acceptable. Staring is creepy, which is never a tolerable gym practice. 4. Ownership vs. hoardership There are a number of ways to tell if a person is still using an item. Some of these include 1. Fresh sweat or personal belongings are present, 2. Weights are present, and 3. The person is visibly using the equipment. If any of these are true, the item is not available. On the flip side, you can't claim something if you're not going to use it. 5. Pardon the interruption It's important to know when it is an acceptable time to interrupt someone. If a person is visibly using something or has their headphones in, it's best not to interrupt them. Many people time their workouts and interruptions guarantee slower finishing times. 6. Hovering If you're waiting for a piece of equipment, don't hover around the person while you wait. This distracts the individual currently using the item. If they're noticeably resting or between sets, kindly walk up to the individual and ask them if you can use the item once they're done. 7. Intended use Gyms have a limited amount of equipment, so equipment should only be used for its primary purpose. For example, don't use the squat/shoulder rack to bench press or deadlift, or the bench to perform shoulder shrugs. 8. Say cheese If you have time to stop and take a selfie ... you're wrong. 9. Temper tantrums If you bring your child to the gym, supervise them. Yes, children have their "moments," but children shouldn't distract others during their gym time. 10. Safety first If you want to try for a new personal record, do it safely. Have a spotter, wear a belt and increase the weight in minimal amounts. A low increase would be the safest. The gym is never the place to show off. Check your ego at the door or it could get you hurt. There you have it. Follow these simple rules and you should look like a gym buff and maybe even have others randomly asking you for help, guidance or advice. To gain access to the Wyvern Fitness Center, visit the center from 2 to 8 p.m. on weekdays to have an ID card registered. For more information or questions, call 0434-30-7574 or -7459.