There is a bit of a unspoken (sometimes spoken) set of rules to live by when you spend a lot of your time in the gym. Flex Wheeler recently broke down what those rules are, perfectly explaining why they are the case.
Wheeler is a true icon in the world of bodybuilding, even without having a coveted Sandow in his trophy case. He not only won four Arnold Classics, which was a record at the time, but he also placed top three at the Mr. Olympia on four separate occasions.
Even since his retirement, he has maintained a popular entity within the sport, regularly offering his insight in a role as a coach, as well as a motivational force for anyone who hears his story. Most recently though, the Sultan of Symmetry posted to his Instagram with some advice for people who might be new to working out, on how to be a respectful gym user.
Gym Etiquette Rules To Live By
There are six main rules that Flex Wheeler pointed out, which will stop you from being “that guy” at the gym. All in all, these simple steps will not only improve your overall experience at the gym, but it will make those around you feel better about you being there.
“Some unwritten rules of the gym you must live by! Try not to be ‘that person,'” Wheeler wrote.
Put Your Sh-t Away!
This is a shared place with others, DBs and plates need to go back to their proper spots, bars back to their racks. Don’t be lazy.
Don’t Flirt…or Don’t Be The Creeper Guy Hitting On Girls Half Your Age.
Many of us might have found our last significant other at the gym, that’s still not it’s intended purpose. If she has her earbuds in, hat pulled low, avoids eye contact…leave her be. She’s there to get her workout in,” Wheeler continued.
Don’t Steal From The Gym
I really shouldn’t have to write this, but a trainer at my gym was recently caught taking Mag Grips home. Cable handles seem to go missing all the time…don’t do it.
Don’t Block The Mirrors
It’s simple, be aware of your surroundings and don’t jump in between someone mid-set and the mirror. Even getting a set of DBs, just wait a few seconds,” Wheeler added.
Never…ever Distract Someone During a Set
Don’t rack plates on horns of a bench or rack that some is mid-set on. Don’t grab attachments from under someone exercising. Don’t get too close to anyone squatting, god forbid you might bump them. Don’t distract or be distracting. LASTLY, don’t assume someone is cool with you working in with them.
Treat The Gym Like Your Home
Try not to break things, be careful ending sets and don’t slam equipment. Wipe things off…no one wants to deal with your sweat. And especially…don’t be the stinky kid…”
Read also: Top Ten: Worst Gym Habits You Need To Quit Doing
This is a solid set of rules from Flex Wheeler, and it is inspiring to see him sharing this message, while still in the hospital dealing with serious health issues related to him getting COVID-19. It goes to show that no matter what he is going through, his heart is always with the sport.
Flex Wheeler Contest History
- 1993 Ironman Pro Invitational (1st)
- 1993 Arnold Schwarzenegger Classic (1st)
- 1993 Mr. Olympia (2nd)
- 1993 Grand Prix France (1st)
- 1993 Grand Prix Germany (1st)
- 1995 Ironman Pro Invitational (1st)
- 1995 Arnold Schwarzenegger Classic (2nd)
- 1995 South Beach Pro (1st)
- 1995 Mr. Olympia (8th)
- 1995 Grand Prix Spain (5th)
- 1996 Ironman Pro Invitational (1st)
- 1996 Arnold Schwarzenegger Classic (2nd)
- 1996 Night of Champions (1st)
- 1996 Canada Pro Classic (2nd)
- 1996 Florida Cup Pro (1st)
- 1996 Mr. Olympia (4th)
- 1997 Ironman Pro (1st)
- 1997 Arnold Schwarzenegger Classic (1st)
- 1997 San Jose Pro Invitational (1st)
- 1998 Ironman Pro Invitational (1st)
- 1998 Arnold Schwarzenegger Classic (1st)
- 1998 Mr. Olympia (2nd)
- 1999 Grand Prix England (2nd)
- 1999 Pro World (2nd)
- 1999 Mr. Olympia (2nd)
- 2000 Mr. Olympia (3rd)
- 2000 Hungarian Grand Prix (1st)
- 2000 Arnold Schwarzenegger Classic (1st)
- 2000 Ironman Pro Invitational (2nd)
- 2002 Mr. Olympia (7th)
- 2003 Ironman Pro Invitational (3rd)
- 2017 Mr. Olympia Classic Physique (15th)
Published: 5 November, 2021 | 11:05 AM EDT
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Don’t stand right in front of the dumbbell rack while you do your set. Step back so others can get to the weights.
While super setting, why do people feel it’s ok to take your stuff from the other station,when they know youur using it.
Dont be a and hoard the weights…do your set and bring the dumbbells and bars back. so others can use them…
Wow….what an amazing record & physic.I have COPD now and 52 very out of shape, smoker, drinker, addict. I am very scared bout my health now. I’m clean , I have 7 g babies and I dont want to leave this world like this. I had my daughters c section and my belly looks like I was 400 lbs and flabby arms. I’m struggling w my issues, and homeless not to mention no money or positive influences. I need a good workout for tummy , love handles and flabby arms thank uou
Thank you very much