MariposasGym Etiquette: 12 Unwritten Rules Every Beginner Should Know
By Zachary, builder of Mariposas
· Last updated June 2026
The gym can feel intimidating when you’re new, but the “rules” are mostly common courtesy. Follow these and you’ll fit right in.
The essentials
- Re-rack your weights when you’re done
- Wipe down equipment after you use it
- Don’t sit on a machine scrolling your phone between sets, let others work in
- Share equipment; offer to alternate sets
- Give people space, especially around the dumbbell rack and platforms
- Put weights back where they belong
Being considerate
- Don’t film others or block mirrors
- Keep your stuff out of walkways
- Use a towel and keep things hygienic
- Ask before working in, and respect a “no”
- Keep grunting and chalk reasonable
- Everyone started somewhere, nobody’s judging you
The real secret
Most people at the gym are focused on their own workout and want you to succeed. Show basic courtesy, and you belong there as much as anyone.