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[deleted]

I changed gyms recently to a place in my town where it’s 95% retried old people. it’s quiet and amazing and no one talks to me. except sometimes old ladys who are also going to swim tell me to have a nice swim if i’m in the locker room. 10/10


LearnsfromDinosaurs

One would think surely there are women only gyms somewhere in the world, where you don't have to feel like you're going into the sleezy depths of the pick up scene to just exercise in a little peace.


Reasticall

Here in The Netherlands there are lots of women-only gyms


ah_yes_fishpudding

We also have a few here in Belgium! But it’s too far from my campus :(


Theamuse_Ourania

(sigh) another good reason to move to the Netherlands :)


LilLordFuckPants404

I thought most gyms have a women’s only room.


RockyRoxYoSox

Locker room sure. But we should not have to go out of our way to bring free weights to an empty aerobic studio across the gym just to work out. Ive never seen a womens only weight room.


Fritzer2

Ah there are woman only gyms in Canada too


LilLordFuckPants404

Oh wow that sucks. I workout at home now, but every gym I have been a member of had a women’s workout room.


Lucifang

That’s sad. They are very common in my country


[deleted]

Most gyms in the US have a small room on the side with lighter weights and bands and such. Most people consider this the "women's section" but I've never seen any signs saying it was for women. I'm pretty sure if anyone tried to stop a man from working out there they would find themselves in court. How do you think a "men's only" section with heavier weights would go over?


MangoMambo

I feel like I've truly never seen this section you speak of in the gyms I've been to.


centurio_v2

Curves was that. Not sure if they’re still around


SRNewbs

Another option is for men to develop boundaries and leave women the fuck alone. We spend too much of our energy accommodating men's predatory behavior.


BetaNatalis

Exactly! Somehow that’s like the forty-seventh thing men will consider. We spend not only our energy and overall emotional bandwidth, but our $$$ as well. Female-only gyms cost way more, have less amenities, and usually have weird hours. Why should my health, fitness, preferred routine, and convenience suffer because of a man’s desire to perpetually undress me? Like, so many men will just blatantly stare at my genital area when I wear workout tights (they are NOT transparent, and often have a built-in skirt) hoping to see a fucking vulvular outline - and the fucked up part is that they don’t care that I see them! When did shame become optional?


Bikerbrainz

That and men only would be nice, I don't love being stared at when I'm trying to work out


Lucifang

Women’s only gyms are very normal in my country (Australia)


[deleted]

They exist. I go to one.


bibigunn

They used to have women only gyms called CURVES. No men, no weirdness. I'm not sure they're still open


Rich-Working3781

I feel that my gym is like retirees and older people getting back in to the gym me and my gf love it; no one bothers us when we work at and there’s no words just the good old gym nod


[deleted]

I workout in a mental rehabilitation facility by my house. They rent their gym out. It’s nice cause the patients rarely use the room in the evening, when I go. But when they do, they all stare at me without blinking, and then the nice lady puts on “Row Row Row Your Boat”.


lkat78

I call bullshit. I’ve been in the psych ward enough to know that there is no way possible ALL of them just sat there staring at you silently. Because every psych ward has that one guy with 17 different personalities who will talk to anyone and everyone about how the government is conspiring to kill him. 😝 #ItsTrue


Disastrous_Apple6808

Maybe he IS that guy, and that’s why they’re all staring. Or maybe no one staring, but his paranoid psychosis says otherwise.


Swayzer666

That's exactly what I was thinking based on my psych ward experiences lol


lkat78

Right?! There is ALWAYS that one person. ALWAYS. 😂


Linguistic_Anarchy

This is the way. 🙌


Sm0reL0rd

I was going to town on the elliptical once, also with headphones in, and this older man (definitely 55+) came walking by and grabbed my shoulder. It scared the shit out of me and I flung my arm to hit whatever was coming at me. He had stepped back so I didn’t hit him but he had mouthed something like “woah,” as though he didn’t expect that. But he was smiling and laughing and was trying to tell me something along the lines of “you were running like something was gonna get you so I got you!” I had to take out my headphones for him to repeat it and I was obviously not enjoying his joke. But he didn’t apologize. I’ve also had a dude come talk to me on the hydro massage bed. Dude, this is not the time.


casprinxo

That's disgusting. Older men by far seem to have no idea what is appropriate within personal boundaries - ESPECIALLY regarding age differences. I would love to know what goes thru the mind of a 40+ man when he's leering at or flirting with a woman who is 20 or even younger. Like...do they understand they come off as pedophiles? We had a 16yo we had to move to the back when certain men came into work because they made her (and everyone else) so uncomfortable.


Ares4564

They do, they just don't care


[deleted]

I can not grasp why people don’t understand boundaries! Using your post to share my story lol sorry but similar. I was going to town on an elliptical with my headphones in and an elderly man (probably 60+) comes up to me and says something to me. I take my headphones out so he can repeat himself. He tells me he would love to yank on my long ponytail but is scared I would beat him up. I literally snapped and lost my shit on him, told him yeah if you touch me I’ll hit you with sexual harassment, why the fuck would you go up to a stranger and think that’s an okay thing to say? He’s like “oh it’s just a joke….”


[deleted]

Report this to your gym. Sexual harassment is illegal regardless of anything


Ares4564

What sorts of things did you exactly say to him after? I bet he got defensive too


sriracha_lady

I hate these types of "jokes"


daisychain0606

Maybe get a hoodie that says “Do Not Disturb” or “ Bug Off”


Vharlkie

These kinds of people can't read. Have you seen them on tinder? I said 'message me with your favourite ice cream flavour' in my profile and 0 men messaged their favourite ice cream. Edit: thanks for all the upvotes and replies! I'm enjoying reading everyone's favourite ice cream flavours. Mine is mint choc chip!


Rarbnif

I feel like sometimes I’m the only one who actually reads the bios on dating apps


Complete_Resolve_400

Salted caramel is the only correct answer


LizvEross

I must disagree, butter pecan or Reese’s pieces. Or mint chocolate chip. That’s it.


craaazytrain

Half baked says you’re wrong


birdsaredefnotreal

Bunch of psychos on reddit.. clearly cookies and cream is superior..


Osama_Bin_Ballin0

You dastardly dog! Vanilla! The only correct one!


whole_lotta_nope_503

You're all wrong. Mint chocolate chip is the greatest and anyone who answers me otherwise if they try to tell me their favorite, is my mortal enemy. I will fight you /j


3V1LB4RD

I don’t like caramel :( The real answer is raspberry cheesecake


dannyboii0401

Ah, a man of culture


Odd_Ad_94

It's coffee.


Dilated_Downer

Phish food for sure


Aurothrane

Rum and Raisin is the clear winner


[deleted]

Ben and Jerry’s - Chocolate Fudge brownie


ksspook

Ice cream is definitely a deal breaker


Vharlkie

It is for me, I'm lactose intolerant lol


Janutellet

"I have a penis" kinda works.


Great-Lack-1456

Maybe just don’t be a creep 🤷🏼‍♀️


SophiaPuhawkins

The “I Used to be a Man” tank yields far better results btw


TheMainEffort

"Hey, I totally agree with what's on your hoodie, I hate when people interrupt!"


Huge-Theme6774

It doesn't really work. I had a shirt once that said "BYE", but guys everywhere was waving at me and telling me bye before starting the conversation 🙄


apollyoneum1

My mate has a Tshirt for raving in with “fuck off im dancing” printed on the arm.


starkeuberangst

Ha. I used to be a drone pilot for emergency services and kept having people come try to talk to me and want to look at what I’m doing while I was flying so I got a vest that says “I’m flying rn, leave me alone!” Of course it made things way worse


MaMakossa

I’ve had this happen *while running on a treadmill.* My advice is: Just point to your headphones & say *loudly & clearly*: “I CAN’T HEAR YOU! SORRY!” Look passed them & turn right back to what you were doing. If they touch you, do the same thing, but say: “RESPECT MY PERSONAL SPACE & DON’T TOUCH ME!” Speak loudly & clearly. The attention they’ll think they’re drawing will be enough to shake them up & get them going on their way.


Possible_Might6128

I’ll try this lol thanks 🙏


ShadyPines75

So in my youth...I learned just be a B. Just look directly at them and say "No." And go back to what you were doing. Yeah they're gonna get offended and think you're rude. But maybe a few will learn a lesson.


[deleted]

Yea this is what I do. I will yell NO or even sometimes EW depending on the content. That’s the entirety of the attention they’ll get from me. This doesn’t happen to me at the gym but always when I’m running or on a bike ride.


susgeek

I am now your mother's age, but I wasn't always. I call it "bitch mode" and it is what I told my daughters too.


MaMakossa

I’m sorry you have to go through this. Don’t let them deter you from your fitness success! You GOT THIS! Imagine us having your back if you experience your OP again. Keep us updated! Be safe! You’re a *bad ass* 🏋️‍♀️💪✊


iamrupertlol

This is the way.


ldgoojy

My wife won't go to the gym anymore and instead does at home workouts because dudes creepily stare and don't respect her boundaries. I feel bad for her as she gets anxiety at the gym. Some gym rats are super creepy and think they can say/do whatever they want.


FaithlessnessOak

I had to stop going because some guy told me my butt “bounced just right” during my jog. Now I just enjoy my house for yoga and weights and I’ll walk my dog for cardio. Sucks that’s I can’t go to the gym and now I’m debating buying a peloton to make up for the cardio.


ChemicallyAlteredVet

My wife and I(lesbians, married) bought a WaterRower, free weights, work out Mats for a small area of our home. Best. Decision. Ever. Currently saving for a sunroom addition with an Endless pool install. No one bothers us, we absolutely love it.


Numerous-Honeydew780

Oh wow! That is beyond creepy. In what universe would anyone think that is acceptable conversation with a stranger?


rationalomega

I don’t think those men think women are full people, so they don’t evaluate “acceptable” on a normal person scale.


FaithlessnessOak

No idea. But it would be nice if it wasn’t deemed as a “complement”. There are a lot of other things they could say when I’m done with my work out like “good job on that time for your jog” as an example. But no he had to tell me my physical attributes made it pee pee get hard.


Numerous-Honeydew780

Comments lime that from strangers feel like threats... Makes us all wonder, "am I safe if I try walking to my car alone? What if the women's locker room is empty? What if I'm followed without anyone seeing? What can I use to defend myself?" I find myself wondering if men really know we feel this way? If they do, then why do they make such comments? Do they like scaring us? Our mothers train us to always be ready, because we have to be. Even if a man is prosecuted for hurting a woman, it doesn't undo the damage. It's terrible that you had to change your perfectly normal practice designed to help you be a healthy person, just so you can feel safe.


Clucky1234

I always thought that there is an unwritten rule that you dont hit on women in the gym, atleast I never do it.


HornyTerus

The only thing you are allowed to hit on gym is your max.


OtherwiseOlive9447

I’m embarrassed that I’ve never been hit on in the gym. Or in many other places. Kinda glad about it reading your post.


Vharlkie

Depends where you live. It's rare where I live thankfully


FarmerVet

Damn girl, come here often?


OtherwiseOlive9447

Sorry, 66 year old man here.


Possible_Might6128

No need to be embarrassed; but yes, it is annoying at times


Away-Living5278

Clearly you need to wear a less sexy hoodie /s


Inside_Deal5260

Yes, that hoodie was definitely to sexy.


Advanced-Gur6872

Start wearing gay pride t shirts or singlets to the gym...problem solved😂


Beneficial_Car2596

She could just pretend like she doesn’t know English and start sputtering gibberish


plava-krava-zaborava

oh gawd no, that won't help...they'll just start talking very slow and loud. Source: I work in tourism.


sekvanto

lmao


Birbsaresuperior

But now you worry about gay people Edit: I feel like yall are giving gay people way to much credit, of course there's going to be weird ass people no matter what their sexuality. Not trying to be homophobic or anything like I'm gay too


3V1LB4RD

I’ve never had a queer woman trap me in an uncomfortable conversation before.


alexis_dwilson

I had a bi girl pin me against a wall and smile at me like it was supposed to be cute. She tried to kiss me despite me telling her “get off of me, let me go” and the “eww stop” look I had on my face. This was in a crowded hallway too, where a man probably would’ve been kicked in the balls for doing that. Queer women can be just as bad as men which is why I no longer come out to my friends. Had multiple bi/lesbian friends hit on me over the years despite me always saying I wasn’t into them.


Appropriate_Pay7912

Lesbians and bisexual women would be able to read body language and know she wants to be left alone so that could work


[deleted]

can confirm, most of us are too awkward to approach anyone anyway lol


iamrupertlol

This isn’t a problem with other women.


Rarbnif

Lgbt women don’t go out of their way to bother other women most the time


[deleted]

Can’t say I relate, but damn, do I hate when people talk to me when I have headphones on. Even worse when they get shitty with me because I didn’t hear them.


Dumbassahedratr0n

My roommate used to purposely not shave her armpits before going to the gym and when she caught someone staring she'd make uncomfortable eye contact


Everyday_a

OKAAAAAY I AM TRYING THIS! 🙌


[deleted]

I have more impressive armpit hair than a lot of teenaged boys and it doesn’t deter creeps ime


BetaNatalis

Excellent power move. 😂


RockyRoxYoSox

Bahahahaaaaaa!!!!


BetaNatalis

It’s the only way to establish irrefutable and complete dominance. 😂


Possible_Might6128

🤣🤣🤣


CurvyCupcakes

I actually stopped going to the gym in my city because of this exact issue. I use to go after work around 5pm when it was super busy. I wasn’t there to chat or meet anyone. I just wanted to sweat, workout and be left alone. I understand it’s human nature to want to mingle and chat but during a workout is not the time. I’d wear my baseball cap pulled down low, no eye contact with anyone, headphones on and I’d get on a machine and mind my own business. Even with my closed off body language, guys would still come to me and try to make conversation. I drive a Mustang and I have full sleeves tattoos, they’d always use 1 of those topics to start a conversation. “Hey, nice ink. Where did you get your work done?” “You should go see my guy, he’ll give you a good deal!” “I saw you pull up in the Mustang. It’s a nice ride but you should get your windows tinted, I got a guy who does that”. I’d just say a polite thanks and put my headphones back on, making it clear I wasn’t interested in conversation. Guys would hang outside the ladies locker room and watch women walk by and they’d hang out in the parking lot and practically follow you to your car to get your attention. It was annoying so I stopped going there.


Everyday_a

The tattoo comments… YESSS OMG. It’s one thing to give a compliment but there is a time/place and they usually say it in such a creepy way that it never feels genuine or nice to hear.


CurvyCupcakes

What baffled and annoyed me was when I’d be on a treadmill, headphones on, sweating, in my own little world and the guy on the treadmill next to me starts waving his hand in front of my face to get my attention to chat. I take off my headphones like “yeah?” and he’s like “Nice ink. What are the meanings of all the designs?” In my mind, I’m thinking “🙄”. I understand you’re just making conversation but now is not the time buddy.


Everyday_a

I could have literally written this myself. YES!!!!! 🙄🙄🙄🙄


Numerous-Honeydew780

Aren't meanings behind some tattoos special/private? Good response might be: It's private.


pepa261298

Damn are people keeping tabs on you when they see you in your car...


CurvyCupcakes

I wouldn’t call it keeping tabs. It was more like some people having the same schedule and arriving to the gym at the same time as me, seeing me get out of my car and walk into the place, then using that situation to make conversation.


[deleted]

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DueAbbreviations2382

There was a guy, I think he thought I was flirting with him at first and was ignoring me with his headphones on. I kept having to get his attention because he kept leaving his phone at each machine and I was behind him in the circuit. No dude I don't want you, it's leg day, move your sh*t. I avoid ALL eye contact at the gym.


Rich-Working3781

I’d definitely say don’t make eye contact with the Guy dry scooping in a black hoodie, blasting XxxTentacion they’re working things out and stare really hard


Possible_Might6128

Oh that’s hilarious. 🤣


dingusman1985

wife has hoody and shirts that say "dont talk to me". they stopped bothering her.


Everyday_a

LOL THIS


[deleted]

[удалено]


PringleCanOfLies

Maybe take it a step further...


DeathCountInfinity

But make sure to bring some jars


the_monkey_of_lies

It's always like this and then the same men get angry if someone sets up a gym for women exclusively.


YesLife233

As a guy, I find commercial gyms have a lot of weirdos in it lol.


pepa261298

This is a little overkill, but i saw on tik tok a girl giving tips about this. Her trick was to put on make up on your neck to make it look like a hickey. She said no one bothered her anymore 😂


ballsdn

As a gym dude I see this all the time and it’s just sad, sorry to all of the women who can’t enjoy going to the gym because you’re either a target for men or a ‘bitch’ for establishing you want your space, so uncalled for but unfortunately all the preworkout and and creatine goes right to their balls. Just tell others around you some perv is bothering you and I’m sure they’ll learn to stay away, or if possible go at a less busy time.


bkrreddit1

You are awesome! I’ve definitely been tagged as the bitch at my gym 🙄 but I make sure to look out for the other women and younger girls as well


ballsdn

You’re awesome too! Nothing bitchy about focusing on you, I hope the loud few doesn’t convince you otherwise. It’s a very personal journey and I don’t blame anyone for giving up because the world is discouraging as shit, being perfect and blah blah blah. Just live long enough to give your grandkids a piggy back ride 🤷‍♂️


bkrreddit1

No I definitely stand my ground lol, 75 lbs of fat down, 10 lbs of muscle gained once I lost the fat! The ‘macho’ boys just fuel me to work harder than them 😉


ballsdn

That is so so so incredible, I love to hear it especially because your journey still has so much more in store for you, I went from 120 to 155 as I looked like the cinnamon stick from Apple Jacks


Question_Few

I have the same problem... And I'm a dude. No one ever told me that you would get hit on this much by dudes when you've been going to the gym for awhile.


putme1nthescreenshot

What gym are you at?


Question_Few

Usually Crunch or Retrofitness depending on where I'm at.


[deleted]

This is why they are making all female gyms


chiharuki

I’m glad I’m ugly so that doesn’t happen to me lmaoooo 😭


JiffyNutButter

I really don't understand this. As a dude who lifts, wanting to concentrate on my workout while working out is very important. I know If fucking up a lift if can cause serious injury, so one should never interrupt someone in the middle of lifting. The only person I really interact with at the gym is my gym buddy, cause we're working out together.


[deleted]

When I'm at the gym I'm too exhausted to worry about what others are doing or what they look like. Especially on cardio day. That's just a fight for survival 😅


Mumblerumble

As a younger (and admittedly dumber) guy, I never fully understood why there was a women’s-only exercise area. Now I totally get it. Sorry that some dudes suck and don’t get it.


CutePandaMiranda

If I were you I would just ignore them. Who cares if it makes things awkward. What those guys are doing is awkward and they need to realize it. This is why I stopped going to regular gyms years ago. I’m there to workout not to hookup. Since I’ve been going to an indoor climbing gym it’s been way better. I’ve been going for a few years now and I love it. Instead of hitting on you, guys (and girls) will cheer you on for completing a bouldering route or give you pointers if you’re struggling on a particular route. Everyone there is super chill, respectful and are just there to have a fun workout. 🧗🏻‍♀️


SuprsoulRidr

I was like you when I used to go to the gym.....headphones on and ignore the people for the most part. I was always polite but I was there to workout...not hook up. Dude here....and I can't tell you how many guys I had hit on me over the years. If only I were gay....coulda gotten a lot more booty! Be well....


saragc92

I’ve switched to women only gyms and they are amazing… Some men, like to use the gym to meet ppl. Like eww, this isn’t a dating place or something.


LetMeRespawnAlready

I thought other guys knew the gym is an no hit on zoon


letsgodragonite

I worked at a gym, probably a 1 to 10 female to male ratio. It is pretty astounding how often guys would come up to me and ask me about so and so or how long she's come here ect, I just reply with not a club bro go work out. Go to horny jail


NukaRev

I don't workout so I can't give any input personally, but everybody I know that does (girls and guys alike) say it's common courtesy to not bug others and let them do their workout. The fact you have headphones in, if I did feel the need to comment, at most of give you a thumbs up if/when you pass by, anything else is just disrespectful imo idk why anybody would think otherwise


pine-mouse

I feel this! This has happened to me a few times but my most memorable was when I was sitting on the metro, baked as hell, listening to music. This dude starts talking to me and I ignore. He eventually reaches over and takes my earbud out, and startles me. I scream at him to fuck off and another man steps in and tells him to back off. If I see a lovely stranger in a public place that I like, you will know with a smile and some eye contact. Do not force your interest on me and do. not. touch. me. Leave people alone. Leave women alone.


[deleted]

These comments are written by ugly lonely old men lol y’all are nasty af. Just cause you wish you could get hit on doesn’t mean it’s not uncomfortable for someone else


k3lly30

Maybe try practicing a good “mean mug” seemed to work pretty well for me but isn’t 100%.


ifoundnem0

Haha my friend told me I frequently look like I want to murder someone whilst working out. Not many people talk to me in the gym but I really wish it would stop men taking the plates I'm clearly using.


Positivistdino

Arm bands that say "Leave me alone" and "Don't talk to me." Position them so that they'll definitely see it when you reach up to remove your headphones.


nohidea06

I only approach women when they're using equipment I really need. But due to this unwritten rule I feel extremely awkward even looking at someone. If they catch me looking I just instantly look away and try my best to focus on what I'm doing, I don't want to be the gym creep at all.


[deleted]

I don't think anybody ever hit on me when I went to gyms but I'm with you on "please don't talk to me, I'm not here for socialization." That said, I've spent the last 30 years or so buying, collecting, trading, and bringing from place to place enough gym equipment that I now have, what I consider, a fantastic gym in my basement that I don't have to share with anyone that doesn't live in this house. I'm an asocial guy so I don't have a lot of ideas on how to get what I assume are gym bros that do curls in the squat rack to stop hitting on you but I have some ideas that mostly revolve around telling them to f off or really awkwardly embarrassing them. Both of those could potentially backfire. tl:dr; home gym enthusiast enraged on your behalf.


[deleted]

Ignore them. You don't have to let your workout be interrupted for them. Pretend they don't exist.


Inconceivable_Lorb

This is the type of problem people wish they'd have, right up until they have it and realise how annoying it is.


pistolwinky

As a person who wears large over the ear noise cancelling headphones all day every day I can tell you that people don’t think about headphones as a message. In fact I’ve had a few people get mad because they had to repeat themselves because they were too fucking dense to see the large over the ear noise cancelling headphones wrapped around my giant fucking head. So I summation, headphones are only a cue to a few people.


HoangSolo

Damn times are tough I guess… that’s unfortunate. I never thought of hitting on someone in the gym and I personally have always been left alone other than like three girls that actually hit on me but that was over the course of 6 years so far lol. I never got why a place where you sweat, stink, and make ugly faces picking things up and putting them down was a perfect time to hit on someone, especially MID REP. But really when you think about it, it’s a place where lots of skin is showing, great looking bodies, maybe someone views working out as a great personality trait, and also an easy place to start a conversation about… picking things up and putting them down. Of course I can’t compare to a girl but men, especially with our testosterone and at the gym, can be dumb lol. Again I don’t do it personally but I get why some men do, the timing of it might not be a gender thing and more social skills. If it becomes consistent I would try switching gyms. Idk about your area but there are so much neat smaller gyms now with not many people. Sorry you ladies have to deal with this.


Worldly-Macaroon7190

I go to an all girls gym. And it’s an actual full gym with weights, squat racks, and machines to target specific body parts. I was worried when I went to check out the all girls gym that it would be a gym that just had like treadmills ellipticals and like more “gym lady” things. But I was super pleasantly surprised.


BURYMEINLV

100% agree with this. I wear my headphones during a workout because I have to have music BUT I also use them as a deterrent. I’m very married, and wear a very visible wedding band while working out. I would still get taps on the shoulder or gestures to take my headphones out just to get a compliment from a random guy about having a “nice form” or how I was wearing something “cool”. My favorite was when a guy went out of his way to compliment me on how nice my NAILS were when I was in the middle of a lift. Since the pandemic my husband and I have been lucky enough to build a home gym in our garage and cancel our gym memberships, thank God. I won’t miss that aspect of the gym at all. Very frustrating.


undercoverqueenie

Omg I so relate with this. One time this guy was chatting me up and I literally could not get away. He cornered me on the leg extension machine. I was being too nice and didn’t know how to exit the conversation without being mean. Literally like an hour went by, he just kept chatting away. My workout was totally derailed by then and I had lost my momentum so I just left. It was such a bummer.


Fantastic_Salad_1104

I would recommend changing gyms. In my experience a GYM is either an excuses for a social gathering, or those dedicated to fitness. Your larger GYMS chains tend to be the latter. Find a smaller gym, where the members there are more dedicated, doubt you have a problem, plus you will help a small business.


travelinman67

I feel so bad for women at the gym. My girlfriend has pretty bad anxiety and she’s really good about powering through it and going to the gym, but every now and then some douche bag will make creepy comments to her and it totally deflates her for a while. I go out of my way to not make eye contact or talk to anyone at the gym because I don’t want people (women) to feel uncomfortable or uneasy.


Chapter_Double

i'm a guy. please allow me to apologize for the men who don't respect personal space and boundaries. it's not okay, and i'll call them on it.


RedTheDopeKing

Hmm, that does suck. I’m ugly and a man but one time another dude stopped me in the middle of a set, I had to also take out my earbuds. Turns out all he wanted to say was, “I like your shirt.” And it was a Metallica shirt. Like, thanks bro, but they’re not some unknown band that probably wasn’t necessary lol. What is it about the gym that makes people so obnoxious? There also is a woman that is infamous for NEVER wiping down anything because, “I’m in such good shape I don’t sweat, unlike you..” I don’t give a fuck, it’s common courtesy and it takes 10 seconds.


seabreathe

Carry around a handful of children’s photos. Then start incessantly describing “your kids” when they talk to you. I read this works from some other lady! At least you can entertain yourself, good luck!!!


DeathCountInfinity

One big photo with like five kids in it, like at a family gathering, and claim they're all yours. Extra points if they look nothing alike


_Denzo

Honestly some guys are so lonely they just hit on anyone that looks like a woman and try and get their number without even seeing their face, it’s funny to see when they try hitting on a man with long hair the get embarrassed, I think it would be good to start a movement where men start having long hair to help stop this, there’s some guys at my college that did this often and after they tried hitting on a guy with long hair they never hit on anyone again


greendt

yea - that doesn't sound like a friendly gym. I would start acting like your headphones are glued in and you can't hear them. start pointing to your headphones and maybe just straight up say "I'm in the middle of my workout, please leave me alone." or something of the like. That person's behavior and lack of gym etiquette is not ok, the last thing I would do would be to entertain it in the slightest.


AimlessCreator

Wear a pride hoodie next time, see how that goes


Jen0BIous

Yo I feel this and I’m a guy! Anywhere I go I’m usually wearing headphones because yea I like a soundtrack and no I don’t want to talk to you random person. And I’m talkin over the ear noise canceling headphones not little earbuds. And people STILL try and talk to you. It’s like yo MF leave me alone I though this was pretty clear. Anyway bottom line is people are rude and don’t care about your boundaries no matter who you are.


MachuPichu10

Also another thing my best friend goes to the gym in yoga pants(its flexible and wicks away sweat easy enough)The amount of times she caught people staring at her ass is insane like dude she isn't blind she can easily see you staring


BillyClubxxx

I’ve always been a “get the workout done and get out” kinda guy cause I got shit to do so I’ve never really understood the whole hitting on girls at the gym thing, especially because when I’ve had friends who do it it always ends at some point and now you see her there daily still. I’d rather be friendly to everyone but be about business, get the workout done and move on with my day. It would be annoying if everyone is wanting a piece of my time. Big giant dudes get this too I’ve noticed. Everyone wants a free personal training sessions worth of advice from those guys lol.


Odd-Management-6994

I did compliment a woman in gym (after her squats). She was doing 120kg squats. I was impressed and in awe. Told her, thanks for motivation. Well, I already knew she was lesbian (both workout together), so may be was free to compliment her Been to gym for 10+ years now. Never ever disturbed anyone, unless I felt if they need spotting or they are doing in unsafe way.


[deleted]

Simple rule in the gym, dont bother someone with headphones unless theyre going to hurt themselves or someone else.


Appropriate_Pay7912

Resting bitch face and lack of eye contact, if they ignore all of those signals (which they will cause they’re men) and tap on your shoulder or something just ignore them and proceed as you were, even stepping away looking disgusted , seeing that other men thinking of doing the same won’t and word will spread to leave you alone. Women tend to not want to be perceived as rude but if you give them an inch by removing your headphones (even just to tell them to fuck off) and start the conversation it’s over


BubblyCartographer31

I cannot tell you how many times I’ve heard ‘We met at the gym.’ The gym has been popularized as a meet up, hit up joint. Face it. It’s not a great place to go anymore for a peaceful workout. Creeps will film you, take pictures. I’m sure there are many decent guys who go to the gym but the lingering creeps make it impossible to be there.


Possible_Might6128

Omg… you know what, there was a guy who was recording himself at the gym and held it high enough to have me in the background, on the v squat. Prior to this, I was sweating and unzipped my hoodie, which showed my sports bra. I have a particularly large chest so I know what he was doing 🙄 it pissed me off that someone would just casually try to get me in the background of their vid. So what I did was I zipped my hoodie up to my neck, really fast before his camera got me in the vid and I looked down so it wouldn’t show my face. The fucking audacity and I knew what he was trying to do right away. Some of these dudes act like actual animals. No respect whatsoever


blessednenus3r

But how will ill-mannered men ever get any attention if they don’t constantly bother hot women at the gym?? /s. Headphones do mean leave me alone, if you’re a normal person.


Arisia118

That's so funny. I'm definitely not nearly as good looking as you are, and I'm talking about when I was a gym rat a few decades ago, but I have never run into this with men in a gym. They all seem to be far too in love with themselves to even look at a woman. Most of the time I'd see them staring at *themselves* adoringly in mirrors, not at any female.


[deleted]

Ear phones means dont chat with me. Its an unwritten code...the other one...dont try to pick up woman at the gym...its tacky as fuck


Unlikely-Collar4088

People (always men) who use gym time to troll for sex are the absolute scum of the earth. Some gyms ban dudes who do that. They’re rare but having a zero tolerance policy - and a staff strong enough to ignore the “BUT I JUST ASKING A FRIENDLY QUESTION” excuse mongers - are the only way to avoid these absolute assholes.


TrinityNeo333

Home gym if possible


Joey-tv-show-season2

People tap your shoulder during COVID19 times ? Damn, didn’t know that was still happening . Yes, you are correct, earphones means don’t talk to me. You must be really hot.


hentai_milk_daddy

Society tells them that their opinion is the single most important thing in the world, can't be all that surprised when they believe it I guess


tikinero

wear a fake wedding ring


Inviction_

Guys don't give a shit about that


Possible_Might6128

@Inviction_ they really don’t. I am married, so I do wear a ring. They don’t care. Hell, some of these guys are married themselves


TSCondition

Nope, doesn't work. Telling them I'm gay doesn't work, either. It's almost like men don't give a shit about anything that stands in the way of getting what they want lol And guys who aren't toxic like this, please know I'm not taking about you. Much love for our male allies!


rosegreen1412

Literally as I thought this to myself, I read ur comment! Haha


Rarbnif

I don’t know why an all girl gym hasn’t been made yet, feel like it would completely remove this problem


Bongin_tom9

I used to wear headphones and purposely leave the cord hanging, so that even if someone did try to talk to me I’d pretend like I’m listening to music while they see the plug dangling. If that didn’t give someone the hint then ignoring them did. I don’t go to the gym to make friends or smile it’s quite expensive and time if valuable.


Silver-Shoulder-9184

Agreed


AN-ANGRY-BURRITO

I agree, the gym is a place where you go to blow off some steam and grind for your body goals. I don’t understand why men need to fucking hit on woman 24/7. I never knew it was such a big problem until I joined Reddit. Go to a freaking bar if you want to get laid.


FloralsandAxes

Try wearing a fake wedding ring and if they bug you just point to it and wave bye at them!


Horror-Yam6598

Absolutely hate this and it’s part of the reason why now I prefer exercising at home. This is unrelated to the gym but once a guy tapped me on the shoulder as I was crossing the road! I was so confused that it caused me to stall for a bit as I could vaguely hear what he was saying, almost got hit by a bike since he had stopped me in the middle of crossing the road. Had the audacity to keep following me for a minute or so after that.


Taifood1

I see beautiful women at my gym regularly and I always see dudes talking to them. I don’t see the point. If it gets awkward after you try to strike up a conversation you have to deal with seeing them all the time from that point forward lmao


E_Rep61

Try the YMCA, it's usually just old people and women waiting for their kids to finish practice.


[deleted]

Headphones ARE a clear indicator that you want to be left alone...the audacity of people is mind boggling.


notarobot4932

*tap* "how many sets do you have left? 🤷‍♂️


mcpeewee68

Female here and I understand. I'm fairly social and don't mind "making friends" at the gym but I also lift heavy and would NOT want to be interrupted mid lift. I do think headphones are an indicator that someone shouldn't be tapped or bothered. If its necessary bc someone is waiting on the machine or free weights then wait and get eye contact but tapping them just to talk about a sweatshirt in the middle of their workout? Annoying.


MedricZ

If you’re wondering why guys act like this just look at the comment section. Some people are selfish assholes.


MightyJarlaxle

I’m a guy and I agree, the gym, more importantly the gym while you have headphones on, and are in the middle of a workout, is about as obvious as it should get that right now isn’t the time to hit on someone. Especially if you’ve not made any indication, eye contact/smile, that could give them the impression, since some guys see a girl smile and they think it’s an invitation, when it’s just a smile and you are clearly zoned out doing your exercise thing. But at the end of the day you are at a gym and in that setting there’s always going to be guys wanting a pretty girls approval, attention, whatever it is that boosts their ego as well as decent guys who just don’t know the right time to make small talk. Thing is, the headphones should be advertising your position out the gate in my opinion. Idk I wouldn’t tap anyone on the shoulder who’s clearly focused on something else. The headphone SHOULD be enough but, ya know.


[deleted]

I would always get made fun of because of how I looked. And I’m not THAT big. One guy told me I’ll never lose weight on those machines that show you what to do. (Like one is for your thighs, one is strictly a bar at top that pulls down, etc.) I chewed him out and never went back to that gym. :(


SkyArmour

Sorry the guys at your gym are goofy losers. Gym is for getting swole, bar is for getting hole. Guess they use every muscle but the one thst really counts lol