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s a regular gym-goer, the article, “11 tips on how to behave at the gym” published in The Jakarta Post on Dec. 5, attracted my close attention.

I wish for all fitness centers here prominently display these tips (rather, rules) on their notice boards and ensure compliance by the members.

I was in the US in last August, and visited NYSC (New York Sports Club) on a few occasions.

NYSC had provided throw-away disinfectant wipes for all the members. Invariably, any one that used a piece of equipment cleaned it after the workout. This practice is something that is worth following  at all gyms here for the sake of good hygiene.

I also observed at NYSC that there was no undue noise inside the gym, except for the muted clanking sound of the weights.

On the contrary, in many gyms in Jakarta, one cannot stand the awful noise belted out by the loudspeakers during the aerobic classes. The worst part is that the sessions are conducted in enclosed halls or rooms with poor acoustics. The sad thing is that the participants in these aerobic classes don’t mind the loud noise — rather they seem to enjoy it!

Talking on mobile phones at the gym should also be discouraged in order to avoid distraction of other members.

In some fitness centers in Jakarta, I also see that the misuse of towels is rampant. The towels are even used as door mats in front of the bath rooms, and are recycled after wash for members’ use!

Returning the dumb bells to the assigned slots on the weight stands after a workout is another good habit which should be encouraged at all gyms for the safety of fellow patrons. A notice to that effect is pasted near the dumb bell center, but rarely followed.

In short, let us show some care and concern for others, especially in public places like gyms.

D. Chandramouli
Jakarta