5 fitness studio faux pas

The New Year is a common time for people to be looking for new fitness and diet programs. With a renewed motivation to feel and look fit, you might finally take your friend's advice to check out that studio she is always posting about. Fitness studios have lots of advantages when it comes to motivating clients compared to the regular gym setup, as long as everyone adheres to the primary pieces of etiquette.

If you are already an avid fan of group training then you have probably already experienced this scenario: You are just getting into the flow of a group fitness session, everybody's energy is vibing, the music is pumping and the coach is guiding the workout… Then, all of a sudden, a cell phone rings or someone is just chatting away ignoring the coach and distracting everyone.

Annoying, right?

Before you join a new fitness studio, you'll want to avoid these top 5 record-scratching behaviors so you don't end up being that guy (or girl!) who messes up everyone else's mojo this year.

Are you guilty of committing one of these fitness studio faux pas?

1. Busting in late or skipping out early

You unexpectedly got held up at work and you're late for your favorite class. It happens to all of us. The trainers at most studios understand these dilemmas and are just happy you made it to class (but there are some that will make you do burpees). Chronic lateness, however, is just rude to the trainer and other members. It sends the message that you are special or don't care enough to make it to the studio on time.

The same goes for skipping out early. When you have a good reason, tell the coach before class and find a good time to jump out. But, doing it regularly is disrespectful of the program the coach created. It sends a message that the end of the class isn't important and makes others think it's just optional. Imagine if everyone had this attitude — classes would be like a rotating door.

2. Saving equipment for friends

Studios are the best for getting an effective workout while hanging with friends. However, saving choice equipment for others who are not present is a big no-no. In fact, many studio brawls have started over just that very reason. (Just kidding!) But seriously, "first come, first serve" is the tried and true mantra at fitness studios. Saving equipment for a friend who arrives late is just encouraging lateness. Plus, who knows who might end up working out next to you if you keep that machine open — they could become your new fitness bff!

3. Carrying your cell phone

We are always astonished when people carry their smartphones into a group workout — and we're downright blown away when they keep the ringer on or even answer a call in the middle of a session! Texting, tweeting, posting on Facebook is also serious poor form. It's distracting to you, your trainer and others in the class. There is an amazing focused presence that group training creates and that pops the bubble every time. Put that cell phone away, give yourself the gift of unplugging (and empower others to do the same) and enjoy being present.

4. Incessant talking

Studios are an awesome place to make new friends and catch up with old ones, but remember the main reason you're there, to get an amazing workout. During instructions, it's important to just shut up and pay attention. It's not because the trainers want to be the center of attention — it's because we want everyone to safely and effectively get the best workout possible in our short time together. So your story, it can wait.

5. Clean your space/equipment

Studio space and equipment is designed for efficiency so when something is out of place, it is noticeable. Put everything back where it belongs so nobody trips and falls. Wipe down anything you sweat or touch (every time!) and generally show care for the equipment you just borrowed from the studio.

One of the key benefits of attending a studio program is that you can let the coach take the lead and just follow. Follow these etiquette tips and you will ride the energy into mind/body results you would never get on your own.

Gavin McKay is the Creator and President of Unite Fitness, a Philadelphia-based fitness studio franchise offering its trademark group training, The UNITE Workout, as well as personal coaching and nutrition programs. Jesse Frank is the Fitness Director and Partner at Unite. Studios are located in Philadelphia and Mt. Laurel, NJ with new studios in the works and regional franchise territories available.

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