What behavior at the gym tell us about our co-workers

I have a theory. I think the way someone behaves at the gym directly translates to how they conduct themselves at work. Admittedly, I have no proof that the two are related, but I regard myself as an astute observer of gym and workplace behavior since I spend a lot of time in both places.

GYM BEHAVIOR NO. 1

Just today, I patiently waited for someone to finish using an exercise machine at my gym. As she exited and I moved toward the equipment, a man barreled past me and hopped on. I said “Excuse me; I was waiting for this machine”. He looked at me, stuffed his ear buds in his ears and pretended he didn’t hear me. My first inclination was to yell at him but I knew that would cause an unnecessary scene. So opting for exercise etiquette, I found another piece of equipment to take my frustration out on.

WHAT IT MEANS AT WORK

At work, this guy is either oblivious or insensitive to co-workers. According to management professor Robert Preziosi, IQ is not a factor when it comes to people who just don’t get it. In a published article, Preziosi says “People who don’t pay attention to cues in the environment continue in a behavior that’s not appropriate.” He goes on to explain that these people aren’t accountable, because their inattentiveness prevents them from learning how to act appropriately.

GYM BEHAVIOR NO. 2

Then there is the person who speaks so loudly on the phone as they huff and puff next to you, that they drown out anything you might be listening to including your own thoughts. If you give them the evil eye or politely ask them to not speak so loud, they act as if you’ve interrupted them.

WHAT IT MEANS AT WORK

Aside from being rude and signaling that their time is not as important as yours, it also means they don’t value being fully present by giving complete attention to people they’re speaking with. In meetings they are probably texting, checking email and excusing themselves to tend to other business.

GYM BEHAVIOR NO. 3

There are few things as gross at the gym as people who leave equipment soaked in sweat without wiping it down. These are the same people who leave dirty towels on the floor, don’t put equipment away and fail to toss used tissues in the trash.

WHAT IT MEANS AT WORK

It means they are inconsiderate and exhibit slob tendencies. Their desks are likely messy. They are probably the people who borrow things from others and forget to return them. They leave trash on the table in the lunchroom exit conference rooms without cleaning off the whiteboards.

GYM BEHAVIOR NO. 4

It is not uncommon for some people to hog equipment and ignore the time limit sign. When the gym is crowded, this means others can’t always complete their workout.

WHAT IT MEANS AT WORK

People who monopolize gym equipment also hog conference rooms; phones, copy machines and office supplies. At meetings, hogs tend to interrupt, dominate conversations and fail to understand the concept of equal opportunity.

GYM BEHAVIOR NO. 5

Gyms are notorious for fashion. There are the muscle men showing off in tight sleeveless string tank tops and the flashy curvy women strutting by in low cut sports bras with matching accessories. To me, it seems these people enjoy being noticed.

WHAT IT MEANS AT WORK

Like siblings who vie for their parent’s attention, grown-ups try to impress the boss, stand out from the crowd or receive recognition for accomplishments. It’s not a bad thing unless you’re wearing those string tops and sports bras to the office.

GYM BEHAVIOR NO. 6

There are few things more annoying in gyms than unsolicited advice from someone without credentials who thinks they know it all when it comes to exercise. They want to tell you the right way to stand or lift to get rid of cellulite you hadn’t noticed before.

WHAT IT MEANS AT WORK

At work, this person wants to tell you how to do your job or point out problems you may not realize you had. They constantly offer advice whether you want it or not.

The gym, unlike an office is a public place. That means you’re only stuck with these people and their annoying habits until their workout is over. In the workplace, however, you can’t get rid of them that easily and their annoying behavior can become toxic and affect your morale. If that’s happening, when someone continually exhibits aggravating behavior, try telling them what’s bothering you, but do it nicely and privately. If the situation grows worse, it may be time to talk to a manager or boss.

Whether at the gym or the office, bad behavior stinks up the place and there should be no excuse for it.