3 Fat Chicks on a Diet Weight Loss Community - Socially anxious at the gym anyone else?

Quote:

Originally Posted by Tomato (Post 3308767)

I am sorry but I don't understand this. Why should it be rude for somebody to get on a machine next to you???
I don't know if this is typical, but I, for example, have one elliptical that I prefer to the rest. So if that elliptical is not in use, I will get one it regardless whether there is somebody on the machine to the left or to the right.

I have favorite machines/equipment at the gym too Alena; your not alone in this. I've also noticed that many of the regulars have their favorite spots. So much so that I can tell when someone has been missing for a while. :devil: I even tend to use the same spot on the mats. :crazy:

Quote:

Originally Posted by Shmead (Post 3315000)

Because there is a strong social convention that you don't enter the space around someone without a reason: it's ok to stand right next to a stranger in a crowded elevator, because your reason is clear. It's NOT ok to stand that close to a stranger in an empty hallway because there doesn't seem to be any reason for it, and that makes it seem threatening.

Personally, if there was a machine that was my favorite, I'd ask permission from the other person: "Hey, this is my favorite machine. Do you mind if I move right next to you?" and they can grunt or nod affirmation. Once it's clear why you are there, it's not weird or creepy.

This probably is a very polite thing to do. However I can almost predict that it would be met with an awkward "huh?" at my gym. They would have to lean over from the machine or slow down their pace, take out the ear buds and actually concentrate on what I was asking. And if it were a guy...I don't even want to go there. For me...a true introvert, that would be just WAY to much social interaction. :rofl:

I've come to accept that at the gym, the conventional rules of personal space are a little fuzzy. Especially when you begin to include functional training exercises into your workout and you have to carve out space on the floor. At least on your machine, no one is going to hop on it with you. I'm just kidding. Couldn't resist. Although it reminds me of a skit I saw about four years ago....

Oh, about the smell. K. You got me there. Sweat. Not such a big deal. But if you had garlic the night before. Please. For the love of... Don't crowd me. Guess I do have a preference after all. :p