Gym Pool Etiquette Explained!

If you’re going to use the pool at a gym, it’s important you read the rules – and also adhere to good gym pool etiquette.

Here are 10 of the most important things to remember when it comes to good etiquette when using a pool at a public or private gym.

Gym Pool Etiquette

1. Shower Before Using the Pool

It’s important to shower before getting into the pool – this will help keep the water clean for everyone.

Plus, it’s just good manners!

It doesn’t have to take long, just a quick shower will do, and also shower off after you leave the pool.

Related – Here’s how to use lap pools properly.

2. No Jumping or Dive Bombing Into the Pool

This can be dangerous for both you and other swimmers, so please refrain from doing it.

Plus, no one wants to see someone messing around and jumping in and making a huge splash.

It’s also important to be aware of other swimmers when you’re getting in and out of the pool.

3. Always Take an Empty Lane if There Is One

If there’s an empty lane, please take that one instead of swimming in a lane with someone else.

This will help everyone to have more space and enjoy their swim.

If you do need to share a lane, make sure you’re aware of the other person and swim on opposite sides.

And please don’t try and overtake!

4. Be Respectful of Other Swimmers and Give Them Space

This is just common courtesy – if someone is swimming slowly, don’t try and swim past them and don’t get too near them.

If you’re doing laps, be aware of other swimmers and give them plenty of space. If the pool is busy, that’s just how it goes sometimes.

Also, please don’t splash anyone on either by accident or on purpose!

It’s not funny and it’s just rude.

5. No Running Around the Outside of The Pool

This is a safety issue for you – if you’re running, you could easily slip and fall, which would not only be dangerous for you but also for other swimmers.

Walk around the pool instead.

And please don’t lean on any railings – it’s there for safety, not to lean on!

6. Dress Appropriately

We all know what appropriate clothing is – nothing too revealing or poorly fitting.

It’s also important to wear the right shoes when you’re walking around the pool area and to and from your locker.

Flip-flops or water shoes are best.

7. Don’t Leave Any Items Around Outside of The Pool

If you need to bring a tool or water bottle in with you, there should be a designated area to place your stuff.

Don’t just leave it on the floor or on a chair.

Also, be sure to put any trash in the bins provided. I’m sure you want a clean and clear pool area, just as everyone else does.

8. Don’t Use This as A Time to Socialize and Make Friends

Swimming at a gym is time for you to focus on your workout, not to make friends.

So please don’t try and strike up conversations with other swimmers.

If someone wants to talk to you, they will.

And please don’t use your phone in the pool area – it’s just rude and distracting for other swimmers.

9. Don’t Distract the Lifeguards with Small Talk

The lifeguards are there to do a job and that is to keep everyone safe.

So please don’t try and engage them in small talk or ask them personal questions.

If you need their help, by all means, ask away – but otherwise, leave them be.

And if they tell you to do something, it’s for your safety, so please listen!

Related – More on good gym shower etiquette and what to wear in a steam room.

10. Make Sure You Know the House Rules

As well as behaving and acting with good etiquette, it’s important you know the rules for the gym you’re at.

Each gym will have different rules, so be sure to familiarize yourself with them before using the pool.

And if you’re not sure about something, just ask – the staff will be more than happy to help.

So there you have it – ten things to remember when it comes to gym pool etiquette.

By following these simple guidelines, you’ll be sure to have a great swim and also help make everyone’s experience more enjoyable.

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Header Photo by margot pandone on Unsplash