I was conducting a personal training session at the park recently when my client and I were approached by a shirtless, overweight fellow who had been exercising nearby. Our new friend proceeded to dole out some advice on how to get fit.

I listened politely, thanked him (somewhat sarcastically) for the advice and then carried on with my session. I’d encountered this sort of thing at the gym before, but was disappointed to see it at my park! Whether you’re at the gym or anywhere else, a key rule of gym etiquette remains: DO NOT OFFER UNSOLICITED ADVICE.

I like to make new friends and I’m happy to chat up just about anybody–If they’re asking for help. But cutting in to someone else’s workout and acting like a know-it-all (even if you’re right!) is incredibly rude.

I see many people making “mistakes” in their workouts, however, we all need to learn things for ourselves when we are ready. In time people will come to find certain methods are more effective than others and if they want to, they will seek guidance from a source of their own choosing.

Others will simply never learn, for no reason other than sheer stubbornness.

Coincidentally, another client recently sent me this link to a great article on gym etiquette rules. Take a look at it when you get a chance, just not on your iphone while you’re at the gym!

Rants and Raves