The gym may be your oasis of quiet and calm after an eight-hour workday, but for others, it can be a time to socialize, video their record-breaking back squat, or catch up on calls with friends. You may wonder if these activities are permissible, and we are here to answer your questions!
The Paseo Club of Santa Clarita, California, has over 10,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor training and mobility space. From weight and cardio machines to TRX suspension systems and free weights, the indoor and outdoor gym areas are popular for people who love to train on their own or meet up with a personal trainer for some one-on-one sessions.
Times are changing and people’s behavior at the gym can vary widely. The Paseo Club wants everyone to enjoy themselves safely at the gym. To help you be a rule-following member that everyone appreciates, check out the answers to frequently asked etiquette questions below.
Top 9 Tips for best etiquette from The Paseo Club personal trainers
1. Can I make a call at the gym?
We are all strapped for time. It is only natural when you are warming up by stretching or walking on the treadmill that you want to use that time to catch up on a call or two. However, talking on the phone in the gym is not the best practice. It can be loud and distracting to others — and this is why the Paseo Club staff asks you to take calls outside and away from others.
2. Can I record myself? What about selfies?
More and more people are recording themselves weightlifting to help them assess their form. Others like to shoot a quick video to share with friends or family. Yet, the Paseo Club gym is not your personal studio so it is in your best interest to save the videos for home or when the gym is almost empty.
If you have your heart set on sending your latest bench press PR to your bestie, and others are nearby, politely let them know your plan. Try to be brief — and if they accidentally get in your shot — that is your issue, not theirs.
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3. What type of clothing and footwear are appropriate for the gym?
Proper clothing and footwear are essential to etiquette and safety at the gym. Although it can get pretty hot in the outdoor training areas, men must wear a T-shirt or tank at all times. Women are allowed to wear shirts, tanks, or sports bras. It is best practice to place a towel on the equipment at all times, especially when wearing just a sports bra.
Closed-toe shoes are mandatory. No open-toe shoes, sandals, or bare feet are allowed.
4. Do I really need to clean up after myself? And put away my weights?
Staff can answer your questions and help you at the gym, yet they are not your personal assistants. Wiping down the equipment you use keeps the gym sanitary — a good habit even if you aren’t sweaty.
Returning weights to their original locations minimizes clutter, reduces tripping hazards, and helps other gym attendees find the weights they need when they need them.
5. How long can I stay on my favorite cardio or weight machine during peak hours?
The gym's peak hours are in the mornings from 7 to 9 am and again from 5 to 8 pm. Sometimes, there is also a peak midday during the lunch rush. These popular times can mean getting access to certain machines or equipment can be tough.
Make a contingency plan if the elliptical isn’t free or the squat rack is full, and wait until there is an opening. If you can get access to the equipment you want, stay on the aerobic machines no longer than 30 minutes and let others get in reps between your sets.
6. Can I sit on a machine and doomscroll in between sets?
No one will deny that the padded seat on the GHD machine is comfy, but it was not meant as a place to hang out and check out the news. If you take longer breaks between sets or have completed your workout, feel free to find a chair somewhere in the cafe or at the side of the pool and scroll away, leaving the machines free for those who want to exercise.
7. I love Olympic lifting. Can I drop the weights on heavy lifts?
It’s exhilarating to lift heavy and really push yourself with barbell movements. Yet, no matter how heavy you go or how many reps you squeeze in, you must lower the bar quietly to the floor. Dropping the barbell can damage the floor and disturb others in the gym.
8. My kid wants to train with me. How old do they have to be?
It is so fun when your child is old enough to work out in the gym too. Kids ages fourteen and older can use any gym equipment as long as they are safe and follow gym policy. The only exception is if your younger child is junior-certified or is in a supervised class.
9. Can I turn on my favorite tunes on the club’s stereo?
Playing your favorite workout beats while you sweat it out in the gym can get you really energized. Regrettably, not everyone loves hearing AC/DC blaring “Back in Black.”
Paseo Club's staff are the only people allowed to operate the stereo. They field requests and try to find music that most people can enjoy.
When in doubt of proper etiquette at the gym…
Think of the golden rule — and you will likely be fine. The Paseo Club is meant to be warm, welcoming, and friendly spaces. Each time you choose to be polite and kind you contribute to a great club environment.
The Paseo Club has been a crown jewel in the Santa Clarita Valley for over twenty years — and it just keeps getting better. Tennis and pickleball departments offer drop-in and reserved play, leagues, drills, and tournaments. Fitness has everything you need, from top-notch gym areas to group and small group classes. The pool is the place for everyone to exercise, relax, or recreate.
Do you feel a little rusty when you head to the gym? No problem! The Paseo Club has several certified personal trainers that can help you identify goals, learn proper form, and custom develop a fitness program just for you.
Are you curious about becoming a member of the Paseo Club? Be our guest for a day and experience all eight acres of the club. Attend a class, go for a swim, dine at the cafe, and meet other members. The Paseo Club is your home away from home. Join today!
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