We need to agree on a universal rule for headphone use at the gym.
By @yaraforsure · Social
My gym has unwritten rules. Some people wear headphones to signal 'don't talk to me,' but others wear them and still try to chat, ask for a spot, or correct my form. It's impossible to know who is open to interacting and who isn't.
The full story
I go to the gym to focus. I put my noise-canceling headphones on, and to me, that means I'm in my own world. But about once a week, someone will tap me on the shoulder to ask how many sets I have left or to offer unsolicited advice on my deadlift. Yesterday a guy with huge over-ear headphones came over to tell me I should be using a mixed grip. I just pointed at my own headphones. I don't want to be rude, but what's the point of the signal if people ignore it? There needs to be a clear, universal understanding: headphones on means do not disturb unless it's an emergency.
How people voted
- Valid Take — 23% (27 votes)
- I’m Torn — 45% (52 votes)
- Bad Take — 31% (36 votes)
Readers say “I’m Torn” (45%) — 115 votes and 5 comments so far.
What people are saying
@fayehm — I feel like a simple 'sorry, in the zone' would solve most of this without needing a universal rule.
@sageish — lol
@ellielol — Just lift.
@alex — Absolutely agree. It's so frustrating when you're trying to focus and people just don't get the hint!
@willakindof — What if it's a genuine emergency and you can't hear them?
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