- Make sure you sign in on the sheet out front (usually the gym supervisor will be at the desk next to it). Put your name, member ID number, and time in.
- If the gym supervisor says hi when you’re signing in, feel free to smile and say hi back. He doesn’t bite!
- A lot of people have asked about the space on the sign-in sheet for a phone number. We just prefer if you put it. Not a huge deal if you’d rather not for some strange reason.
- When signing in, there’s no need to feel self-conscious just because the gym supervisor is so close by, and seemingly just sitting there. He’s actually very busy, organizing the brackets for the juniors squash tournament. He definitely is not looking at you. Even if he had time to just stare idly at you—which again, he doesn’t—he wouldn’t, because that would be so creepy!
- The space on the sign-in sheet for astrological sign is just a fun thing that is totally optional. The gym supervisor is really knowledgeable about astrology, and could give you some fun feedback on your sign! But again, completely optional.
- The space for social security number just came on the sign-in sheets when we ordered them; we didn’t put it there. However, it is required.
- The gym supervisor has been trained in a great breathing technique that he would be happy to teach you; feel free to ask him!
- Another thing about being nice to the gym supervisor is that he can possibly get you a discount on some of the merchandise in the gym shop, as long as the manager isn’t there, which is pretty often.
- Gym attire is required in the gym at all times. Clothing should be extremely tight-fitting, with no loose-hanging pieces that could get caught in the machines. If you’re unsure about an item, the gym supervisor would be happy to let you know if it’s appropriate.
- Also, doctors recommend exposing as much skin as possible while exercising in order to allow sweat flecks to evaporate properly and avoid skin reaction. Hey, don’t ask me: I’m not a doctor! I’m a gym-rule writer.
- Nudity is permitted in the gym at all times.
- It is imperative to stretch before exercising! There’s a good open space for stretches near the front of the gym, by the desk where the gym supervisor sits. You can stretch anywhere, but that’s just a good spot, most people find.
- If a machine malfunctions while you are using it, alert the gym supervisor immediately by standing in front of the machine with your hand raised, and your chest thrust outward.
- No men are allowed in the gym.
- Stay hydrated! Some health experts say dousing your entire body in water is slightly more effective than putting it in your mouth.
- If you’re on a machine and you get a weird sense that the gym supervisor is watching you from behind, don’t worry: it’s probably just your imagination. Even if he is there, he’s just inspecting something. He has to inspect all the machines to make sure they’re working properly, and he makes his rounds every so often, as part of his job. But again, he’s just looking at the machine, and definitely just testing something on the machine if you feel his hand brush your back.
- On your way out, make sure to put your time out on the sign-in sheet and sign your name on the waiver form next to it which absolves the gym supervisor of various liabilities.
- The locker rooms are under video surveillance.
- Please limit use of cardio machines to thirty minutes if someone is waiting!
This article was originally published August 2013