We’ve all been there: you walk into the gym, ready to tackle your workout, only to find the weight area cluttered with dumbbells, barbells, and plates left behind by others. It’s frustrating, to say the least.
Having worked at a gym for a little over three years now, I’ve seen it all—the good, the bad, and the downright atrocious ways people leave their workout area. And let me tell you, it drives me insane. The worst offenders? The “non-rerackers” who load various size weights onto a single weight tree peg (or whatever that’s called). There’s nothing more aggravating than seeing a 5 lb weight tucked behind a 45 lb plate. It’s a downright struggle for those who lift lighter weights to access what they need for their workout. Imagine trying to wiggle out a tiny plate when a massive one is in the way.
When weights are left lying around, the next person has to waste time searching for the right equipment or clearing the area before they can even begin their workout. This disruption not only kills momentum but can be particularly challenging for those who might not have the strength to move the heavy weights left behind.
Moreover, leaving weights scattered around doesn’t just inconvenience others—it can be quite dangerous. A cluttered gym floor increases the risk of tripping and other accidents. Ensuring that weights are properly put away helps maintain a safe environment where everyone can exercise without worrying about stepping on a Rogue dumbbell.
At its core, reracking weights shows that you respect and value the shared space and the effort of those around you. Some might argue that reracking weights is a hassle and the “job of the gym attendants” (which is a conversation for another day), but in reality, it’s just a small addition to your overall fitness routine. Picking up weights and putting them back in their designated spot requires effort and can even be seen as a bonus set that enhances your discipline and respect for the gym environment.
Ultimately, reracking your weights is a small courtesy that goes a long way. So next time you finish a set, take a moment to rerack your weights. If anything, think of it as a mini workout that adds just a little more to your cool-down routine.
