Everyone has encountered exercisers who act as if they are the only ones at the gym. While you can’t control how others behave, you can do your best to follow gym etiquette and set a good example. Over time, your politeness and consideration might influence others.

Be timely

You might think that arriving late to a group exercise class is harmless, but it can disrupt the instructor and other members. Missing the warm-up and initial instructions can also increase your risk of injury. Out of respect for everyone, try to arrive 5 minutes early for a safe and effective workout.

Clean up after yourself

Putting weights away and wiping down machines should not be solely the responsibility of gym employees. A dumbbell left in the walkway could easily cause someone to trip, and leaving sweat on equipment is inconsiderate. Always re-rack weights in the proper spots and use the complimentary spray bottles to disinfect the equipment.

Know the rules

Pay attention to posted rules and ask the staff questions about what is and isn’t appropriate. Some gyms prohibit members from joining a class late for safety reasons, and many have time limits for cardio machines to ensure everyone has a chance to exercise.

Share

There is nothing worse than a person who hoards the 10-pound dumbbells for 30 minutes while they rotate through their exercises. Speak up and ask to take turns with the equipment. Offer to do the same if you see someone eyeing the items you’re using.

Quiet down

Loud conversations, phone calls, and banging weights create an unpleasant atmosphere for everyone around you. Speak quietly, take your phone calls outside, and keep the grunting and banging to a minimum.

Skip the body sprays

Activity can heighten the sense of smell, making even the faintest spray of cologne or perfume unbearable. Avoid applying sprays and scented lotions several hours before a workout. If you store workout clothes in the locker room for multiple uses, track when that stinky shirt needs to hit the laundry basket.

Watch where you rest

When you take a break after a set or stop to send a text, move out of the way of other exercisers. Don’t take up valuable mirror space or sit on a workout bench. If you are deep in conversation with the person on the cardio machine next to you, step off your machine to continue your talk once your session is complete, and let someone else use the equipment.

Lori Rice, M.S., is a nutritional scientist and author with a passion for healthy cooking, exercise physiology, and food photography.