LISA THALHEIMER
Opinions Writer

It’s the start of the year, which means people are still serious about their New Year’s resolutions.

I fully support and encourage every single person who has made a resolution to get healthier. It’s a wonderful thing to do for yourself. What I do not support is the insane jungle that the PAC gym has turned into.

I understand that for first-time gym goers, the gym is often seen as a scary unknown world where it is unclear what is expected in terms of proper etiquette. The thing that makes this time of year so difficult is hundreds of new people flocking to the gym at the same time.

I’m no gym expert but as a regular patron there are a few rules of etiquette and common courtesies that I believe everyone going to the gym should be considerate enough to follow.

First off, there are lockers available for everyone in the change room. You bring your own lock; you take it home with you when you’re done. As of right now, even if I go late at night or early in the morning when the gym is dead, it’s nearly impossible to get a locker. I’m not just being cranky about this, there are actually posters around telling people to take their locks home when they’re done at the gym.

Next, I beg that you spray down your machine when you’re done. Those spray bottles and rags scattered all over the place are not just there for decoration. I don’t know about you, but when I go to the gym I tend to sweat. This sweat doesn’t just cling to me, especially when I’m running. It sprays, drips and gets all over the place. Pretty gross, hey? Good thing I wipe down my machine once I’m done, so you don’t have to deal with it.

Lastly, the biggest, most important thing to remember when going to the gym, especially when it is super busy like it is now, is to book your machines. You can sign up for cardio machines on the white board located on the south wall of the gym. It is extremely frustrating having to constantly ask people to get off the machine, then explain why I have the nerve to ask.

While there is a lot to be annoyed with at this time of year, it has absolutely nothing to do with the actual gym. In fact, besides the pool being shut down, I’d say the PAC is looking better than ever. The fitness classes are great, all the machines are maintained extremely well and the staff is absolutely wonderful.

As of right now, it’s up to the patrons to make getting in shape a good experience for everyone. If you can’t remember the three simple things I mentioned, don’t worry. There are posters all over the gym reminding you of these courtesies.

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