* Work out at your own fitness level. * Ask if you may "work in," and always let others work in. * When working in with someone, return the seat and weight to the last user's setup. * Avoid making loud sounds (banging weights, yelling, dropping dumbbells). * Refrain from using loud, foul or slanderous language. * Do not remove weights, benches or equipment from their proper place. * Collars on weight bars are mandatory at all times. * Always use a spotter when attempting to lift maximum weight. * Don't sit on machines when you're between sets. * Be patient when waiting for equipment, and be efficient when using equipment while others are waiting for you. * Be aware of others around you. Don't stand in front of the weight rack while lifting; you may be blocking others from getting to the weights. * Rerack weights and return all other accessories to their proper locations. * Misuse of equipment may result in immediate expulsion.

Enforcement

When it comes to enforcing policies, different gyms have different tactics. If safety is at issue, such as improper shoes, dropping weights or performing a dangerous exercise, clubs should be strict about enforcing rules. Other rules, such as reracking weights and wiping off seats, need to be enforced for courtesy and health reasons. It can be very annoying to members to always have to remove plates before using a piece of equipment, or to have to search for certain dumbbells. In fact, they may be annoyed enough to find another place to work out.

Educate new members. Start teaching members about etiquette when they join. Keith Cinea, educational, programs and products coordinator for the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), suggests telling your new members about the rules, and including a handout with their packets, during new-member orientation. Give new members a handout of the rules in their new-member packet, and point it out to them. Mention that they should read the rules before working out. This is especially important if members need to know about rules in advance, such as a dress code or carrying a towel.

Signs. Placing easy-to-read signs where your members will see them can be effective. Make sure that the signs stand out against the wall and aren't surrounded by clutter.

Staff supervision. While a good safety policy is to have a staff member supervise the weight room, staff can also help to enforce the rules and keep members honest. Members will be less likely to leave weight plates on the bar if they know one of your staff is watching.

It's not easy to approach members who are being discourteous, but it can make a difference; you don't want one member making everyone else unhappy. And if you educate your members right from the start, and show them that you enforce your rules, your gym will be a better place for everyone.

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