15 Things You Should Never Do If You Don’t Want to Look Like a Douchebag

Whether you’re new to the gym or a seasoned lifter, there are a few universal rules that separate the legends from the loudmouths. You know the ones — the guys who think they own the place, the ones who believe sweat towels are optional, and the ones who turn every set into a social-media photoshoot.

Here’s your definitive list of the top 15 things not to do in the gym if you want to look like you actually belong there (and not like a walking “before” picture).

1. Staring at People (Especially in the Mirrors)

Yes, people notice. Whether someone’s lifting, stretching, or doing yoga poses, constant staring is creepy and makes everyone uncomfortable. Focus on your own reflection, not theirs.

2. Smelling… Bad

Deodorant is not optional. Ever. A good workout should leave you sweaty, not smelly enough to clear out a 10-metre radius. And on the flip side — don’t drown yourself in cologne either. No one wants to taste your aftershave mid-set.

3. Living on Your Phone

Scrolling between every set? Filming every rep? You’re not a Hollywood director — and that dumbbell isn’t waiting for your next Instagram story. Use your phone for your playlist or tracking sets, not for TikTok stardom.

4. Hogging Equipment

If you’re doing supersets that involve four machines at once in peak hour, stop. Share the space. Rotate sets. Nobody likes the guy who camps on the bench while messaging his group chat.

5. Not Wiping Down Equipment

Your sweat is your business — not everyone else’s. Always wipe down benches, handles, and mats after use. A clean gym is a happy gym.

6. Dropping Weights for No Reason

There’s a difference between finishing a heavy deadlift and throwing dumbbells like you’re auditioning for a demolition crew. Respect the equipment (and the eardrums of everyone else).

7. Overly Loud Grunting

A little effort noise? Fine. Sounding like a mating walrus? Not fine. Save the primal roars for personal bests, not bicep curls.

8. Unsolicited “Coaching”

Unless someone asks for help, don’t correct their form, suggest new techniques, or critique their squat depth. You’re not their PT — and nobody likes a self-appointed gym guru.

9. Leaving Plates Everywhere

You loaded it, you unload it. Leaving weights scattered like landmines is lazy and inconsiderate. Re-racking plates is Gym Etiquette 101.

10. Filming Others Without Consent

Just because someone’s in the background of your set video doesn’t mean they want to be. Always be aware of your camera angle — privacy matters.

11. Monopolising the Mirror

The mirror isn’t your personal selfie studio. Quick check of your form? Sure. A 10-minute posing session while others are trying to watch their lifts? Hard no.

12. Yapping Too Loudly

Gym chatter is fine — shouting across the room or having phone calls mid-set isn’t. Keep your social life for the lobby, not the squat rack.

13. Ignoring Personal Space

Give people room to lift. Standing too close, walking in front of someone’s deadlift, or brushing past during a squat set isn’t just annoying — it’s dangerous.

14. Not Respecting Gym Staff

Cleaners, trainers, and receptionists keep the place running. Treat them with the same respect you’d expect. A “thank you” goes a long way.

15. Acting Like You Own the Place

Confidence is good. Arrogance isn’t. Whether you’re benching 40 kg or 140 kg, stay humble, be kind, and remember — everyone’s there to improve themselves, not to compete with your ego.

The gym is a shared space. The best members are the ones who make it better for everyone else — not just for themselves. So next time you train, keep these 15 no-nos in mind. Lift heavy, train smart, smell nice, and most importantly… don’t be that guy or gal!