When I go the gym at 7 in the morning or sometime in the afternoon, I’m usually wearing an insanely over-sized t-shirt, black leggings, or some old pair of baggy shorts. My appearance states one thing: I’m here to sweat, get stinky, and lose some extra pounds. But, there’s always going to be that one person who wants to talk with you, flirt with you, and/or stare at you while you’re running on the treadmill or bench pressing a couple heavy weights.
The gym is a weird place to meet new people in general. Why? Well, a lot of the people who do go to the gym have the same mission I have: to sweat and get/stay healthy. But, that doesn’t mean you can’t ever meet anyone there. I’ve met a couple of very interesting people (who are now some of my closest friends) at the gym.
The gym is a complicated place to meet people, but a quick do’s and don’ts guideline will help you out.
Do:
1. Always read body language.
Don’t approach someone who is deeply concentrated in their workout or water break. Many people will put up a guard around themselves because their foremost mission is to workout. Be prepared to gauge the situation (take in their body language, eye contact, etc.). You really don’t want to come off as that “creep at the gym”.
2. Wipe some of the sweat off before approaching the person you want to meet.
Sweating is good and can be sexy, but not when it has managed to form a trailing river behind you.
3. Smile and say hello.
People like friendly people; that’s a true fact. Just try to steer away from shaking hands unless you are certain no “clammy hands” or” sweaty palm” situation will occur.
4. Try meeting the person in their element.
People generally lower their guard down when they are in a place where they feel comfortable in. Just remember not to come off as a creep or look like a pool of sweat. Oh, and smile!
Don’ts:
1. Please, don’t stare.
Gyms are notorious for having mirrors everywhere. You will get caught, and no the other person will not like it. It’s creepy having someone stare at your butt while you do weighted squats.
2. Refrain from using any sort of corny pickup line, ever. Period.
3. No grunts, moans, or extra loud noises, please.
An occasional grunt is okay, but you don’t want to come off as the Hulk. You’ll come off as scary and unapproachable.