group fitness classes are supposed to be fun, energizing, and a great way to stay accountable. But lately, it feels like some folks have forgotten the unspoken rules that keep these sessions enjoyable for everyone. From the person who sets up camp way too close to your mat to the TikToker filming every burpee, gym etiquette has taken a nosedive. And if you’ve ever been stuck next to someone who treats the studio like their personal phone booth mid-class, you know exactly what we’re talking about.
The Late Arrival Dilemma
Showing up late happens—we get it. Traffic, last-minute work calls, or just plain old snoozing your alarm one too many times can throw off your schedule. But when you stroll in 15 minutes into a 45-minute class, you’re not just disrupting your own workout—you’re throwing off the entire room’s vibe. Certified Pilates instructor Carrie Minter Ebers suggests slipping in quietly if you’re only a few minutes behind, but if you’re pushing it past that, consider waiting for the next session. "The energy of the class matters," she says. "When someone comes in late, it can break the flow for everyone else." And let’s be honest, no one wants to be that person who stumbles in during the warm-up while everyone else is already dripping in sweat.
Phones: The Ultimate Mood Killer
We’re all guilty of checking our phones a little too often, but bringing that habit into a group fitness class is a hard pass. Elise Joan, a holistic wellness coach, points out that screens are distracting—not just for you, but for everyone around you. "If you absolutely need to take a call or respond to a text, step outside," she says. "But ideally, keep your phone on silent and out of sight." Think about it: if you’re mid-squat and catch someone scrolling Instagram in your peripheral vision, it’s tough to stay focused. Plus, constantly checking your phone means you’re not fully present—and that defeats the whole purpose of showing up to class in the first place.
To Record or Not to Record?
Social media has turned fitness into a spectator sport, and while there’s nothing wrong with wanting to document your progress, there’s a right and wrong way to do it. "Always ask the instructor first," Joan advises. "And make sure you’re not accidentally filming other people who didn’t sign up to be in your content." If you’re going to record, keep it short—maybe a quick clip at the end of class—and avoid setting up a tripod in the middle of the room. No one wants to dodge your phone while they’re trying to nail their downward dog.
Modifications vs. Mayhem
Modifying moves to suit your body’s needs is not just acceptable—it’s encouraged. But there’s a difference between adjusting for an injury and turning the front row into your personal CrossFit session. "Modifications should still align with the class structure," Joan says. "If you’re doing something completely different, it can throw off the instructor and confuse other participants." If you’ve got an injury or limitation, give your instructor a heads-up before class so they can offer alternatives. And if you’re just not feeling a particular move? Take a breather. No one’s judging.
Side Conversations: Keep ‘Em Short
A little chatter before or after class? Totally fine. But when you’re mid-workout and the people next to you are deep in a conversation about their weekend plans, it’s hard to stay in the zone. "Quick words of encouragement are great," Minter Ebers says. "But save the long convos for later." And if you’re the type who likes to shout over the music, maybe reconsider—no one wants to hear your commentary while they’re trying to focus on their form.
Energy Is Everything
Group fitness thrives on collective energy. When everyone’s dialed in, the class feels electric. But when people are wandering in and out, doing their own thing, or just generally checked out, it kills the vibe. "Your energy affects everyone around you," Minter Ebers says. "Come ready to work, stay engaged, and be mindful of the people sweating next to you." That means leaving your bad mood at the door, keeping distractions to a minimum, and—most importantly—bringing positive vibes. After all, you’re all there for the same reason: to move, sweat, and maybe even have a little fun.
At the end of the day, gym etiquette isn’t about strict rules—it’s about respect. Respect for the instructor, respect for your fellow classmates, and respect for yourself. So next time you roll out your mat, take a second to check in: Are you being mindful of the space? Are you staying present? Are you contributing to the energy of the room? If the answer’s yes, you’re already winning. And if not? Well, there’s always next class to do better.
