20 Mar Etiquette

A little gym etiquette goes a long way. There are some things that we do every single day – like going over the day’s workout or going through a proper warm-up. While in some ways ordinary, it lays the foundation for the environment in which we train and is an integral part of our class vibe.

The same could be said for our list of The Shoppe Etiquette– this list makes expectations clear and holds us each accountable.

Now, I know what some of you are thinking, “Oh s****, was it me? Did I not do one of the things on this list? Is this about me?”

The answer is simple – no, it is not about anyone in particular.

Sign up for a class!
Our commitment to you is that we will come energized and prepared for the day’s class. We will be armed with a class plan, varied and relevant scaling options and a class format that is professional, organized, and well-coached. We ask that you sign up for a class. There is a difference if we have 30 members showing up for a class versus 5 members. We do our part, and we ask you that you do the same!

Be on Time.

We cover a lot in class and utilize every minute. No, we won’t lock the doors five minutes after class starts; however, if you’re late, please assimilate into class by mimicking what you see going on!

Check Your Ego at the Door

Please check your ego at the door. You’re going to be first in workouts – and last. The coaches are going to take weight off your bar and tell you to go heavier. We care just as much about how well you move as how fast you go in the workout. The coaches are there to help you improve now and long into the future – trust us, we have your best interest in mind.

Introduce Yourself

Please introduce yourself to newbies (or someone you don’t recognize). Remember when you were the new guy or gal? A friendly introduction goes a long way.

Wait to Break Down Your Equipment Until Everyone Has Finished the Workout

No one breaks down their equipment until everyone has finished the workout. This is a common courtesy that you too will one day benefit from as everyone is last in the workout someday. You can cheer on others, grab a foam roller, or just sit and enjoy the downtime, but don’t touch your equipment.

No Ghost-Riding the Barbells – Ever

Yes, we know you’re cool, and we know how empowering it is to drop a barbell from overhead. You know what’s not empowering? When you barbell drops to the floor and dances into someone else’s shin injuring them for weeks. Not sure what ghost-riding looks like? Ask your coach next time in class.

Treat Empty Barbells Like They Were Your Baby

Would you drop your baby from three feet above the ground? We certainly hope not. We use an empty barbell a lot in class for drill and form work. When putting the barbell down, gently place it on the ground with the utmost care and admiration for the fine piece of equipment that is a barbell.

Check Your Surroundings and Stick to Your Equipment

The Shoppe is not your oyster; it’s many people’s oyster. If you set up on one pull-up bar, don’t take someone else’s bar just because they’re not there. If your wallball is further away from the rest of your equipment than you would like, well then, run to the wallball, don’t use someone else’s just because it’s closer.

Kindergarten Rules Still Apply

You have to clean-up after yourself. It’s your responsibility to get out and put away your equipment, count your reps, get your own tissue, and clean off your bars. Plus, by carrying those huge boxes all the way across The Shoppe, you’ll gain a lot of fitness.

Clean Off Your Bars

It’s entirely possible that at some point in your fitness career you may bleed on a pull-up bar or barbell. Please, please clean off your bar.

Chalk Usage

Chalk stays in the chalk bucket. Yes, you’ll have to walk all the way to the chalk bucket to dust your hands. While some people believe that chalk is the magic fairy dust, the fact of the matter is that a light dusting of your hands is all you need.

Go the Distance

Every athlete pushes them self differently. You can scream, cuss, cry, go to your happy place, bleed, or even rest…just don’t quit. Talk to the coaches, communicate with us when you’re on the verge or feeling defeated, we can help. The human body is capable of more than you can comprehend; challenge it accordingly.

Edited and adapted from SugarWOD.com

Related: Fitness