Learning more about group fitness etiquette shows that you care about the other people in the room.
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If you’ve recently joined a gym and are stepping into group fitness classes for the first time, you might not be aware of some unwritten rules that help keep things running smoothly.
Group fitness instructor and TikToker Bransen Gates’ post on fitness etiquette has hit a nerve with gym goers, with over 1000 comments from followers.
“We need to talk about etiquette in group fitness classes, kids, because . . . it is not there anymore,” he said in a TikTok video.
Lateness and phone use during class are among his biggest gripes, but judging by the comment section, he’s not alone.
Others chimed in with their own frustrations—like excessive body spray, people stepping on mats with bare feet, and folks rummaging through cubbies for ages after class. Some even suggested “grip socks should be mandatory” in certain workouts.
So if you’re a gym newbie, here are a few tips from the experts:
Punctuality is one of the biggest factors in group class etiquette. Arriving five to ten minutes early gives you enough time to settle in.
If you’re running late, slip in as quietly as possible, come prepared, and avoid disrupting the class flow. If you’re more than 10 minutes late and the class is already in full swing, it might be best to wait for the next class.
Life happens—sometimes you need to check a message or take a quick call. That said, try to keep your phone use outside the workout space to help maintain focus for yourself and others.
Keeping your phone on silent also allows you to be more engaged with the class and get the most out of the session.
Whether you're tracking progress, sharing on social media, or sending a video to a friend, be mindful of others in the room.
If you’d like to film your workout, get the instructor’s permission first and ensure you’re not recording anyone without their consent. A quick post-class clip or setting up in a designated filming area is usually the best approach.
Adapting exercises to suit your fitness level is completely fine—after all, fitness isn’t one-size-fits-all. But if you’re going rogue and doing an entirely different workout, it can be disruptive to the class dynamic.
If you have an injury or specific needs, let the instructor know beforehand. They can help you modify movements safely without disrupting the class flow. And remember—it’s always okay to take breaks when needed.
A bit of encouragement during a tough workout? Fantastic. A full-blown conversation about weekend plans? Not so much.
Loud or ongoing side conversations can be distracting for both the instructor and fellow classmates. Keep the chat to a minimum and save the socialising for before or
Being mindful of group fitness etiquette isn’t just about good manners—it makes the experience better for everyone.
Arriving on time, keeping distractions to a minimum, and respecting personal space all contribute to a more enjoyable and effective class.
And most importantly have fun, encourage others, and bring positive energy to the room.
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IOL Lifestyle