Diana Anaya/Contributing Writer
I love the Modesto Maidique Campus gym – a variety of machines to use, fun exercise classes to take, and an increase in lockers has made working out a great deal more enjoyable than it normally is. Still, there are a few customs I’ve encountered that can be irritating.
Many students who frequent the gym are familiar with the people who don’t wipe their sweat from the machines. If you’re like me, sometimes you assume the machine has been wiped down and jump right on it, only to quickly get off after finding the hand rest damp with sweat.
Another annoying habit that’s been growing in popularity is sitting on a machine and texting. It leaves whoever is waiting in a difficult position: I can be rude and tell you to either start exercising or get off, or wait, unnecessarily, until you’re done texting, and then five more minutes as you actually “work out.” Just leave your phone in the locker; your friends can wait.
Now when I start exercising, I’m in the zone, jamming to some music and breaking a sweat. But that doesn’t mean I don’t see you leaning to the side, trying to get a peak at my calorie count. This isn’t a competition, and the time you’re wasting checking out my stats is time you could have spent focusing on yourself.
This one is specifically to the ladies, although it may be true for men as well: walking around the locker room naked. I’m sincerely glad that you feel comfortable with your body, but remember: you’re in a room filled with strangers. Bra-and-panties are fine; birthday suit is not. Next time you leave the showers, take your clothes with you to a bathroom stall and change there.
My last complaint is the opposite of what I hear several students say. If I decide I’m going to spend an hour on the elliptical and all the other ones are full, tough luck. In the ever-growing cost of attending this University, I believe I’m entitled to be on the machine for as long as I desire. Instead, try coming earlier or staying later.
Not all students do these things though. There are plenty of thoughtful people who wipe down machines, only sit on a machine when they’re using it, and overall are respectful to those around them. However, if you’re one of these offenders, don’t be surprised if you catch a couple glares.
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