Whether it be in an apartment complex set-up or within the glorious walls of Southwest Rec Center, hitting the gym is an essential part of a healthy collegiette’s lifestyle. But while you’re sweating it out, there is typically a good dose of comedic relief to be found. Here are a few behaviors that will make those around you just a little bit uncomfortable in their workout:
Sounding it Out
Some huffing and puffing during an intense workout is totally normal. However, those who take the grunting to a whole other level must go. I suspect this stems from either overestimating the workout they can be doing, or just dramatizing it, but it needs to stop. Remembering to breathe is really important, but if you’re gasping and sputtering for an extended period of time, you may want to rethink your method.
Making it a Competition
Subtlety is the key. In a row of elliptical machines, it’s only human nature to gain a little motivation by going harder, longer, or faster than your neighbor. But if you find yourself gazing at their little statistics board, they will likely see you staring and think you’re a creep. Set goals against yourself instead, beat your last time or calorie count if you need motivation. If you get bored, try to keep your endurance up by working out for the entirety of a TV show or song playlist. Don’t kill yourself by trying to compete with the people around you.
Hardcore Creeping
The level of awkward staring in any given gym is ridiculous — more evidence that males can truly not control themselves. I don’t know what it is, but apparently the spandex is enough to forgive our sweaty gym appearances. Guys will still creep at the gym. There’s nothing more uncomfortable than feeling eyes on you as you try to focus and workout. The worst part of all is that gyms are bursting full of mirrors; it’s undeniable that everyone can see people when they check others out at the gym, but it never ends. This goes hand-in-hand with pestering people wearing headphones and correcting a strangers “form.” Don’t pay attention to other people at the gym, focus on yourself!
Street Style
I know the lockers at Southwest are a nightmare, but you should still probably come to the gym in some sort of athletic wear. It used to be shocking, but I’ve come to normalize the fact that there will typically be at least one person doing their cardio in jeans. I’ve even seen gym-goers go barefoot instead of bringing their sneakers, and that just can’t be sanitary. A lot of people who have busy schedules, but it’s actually acceptable to go to class or run errands in workout clothing. The other way around is not only bizarre, but also seems a little dangerous, too. Dress appropriately when going to workout.