Last week's 20-40-60 Etiquette on gym manners

QUESTION: This question pertains to the gym. Why do groups of friends or couples take up the entire track (side by side) and assume no one else needs to go around them at a faster pace? Some folks use the gym as an opportunity to visit rather than sweat. I’ve had to run up on someone’s heels, literally stop and say “excuse me” to get them to move over. They always looked a little shocked and upset. Should people be more aware?

CALLIE’S ANSWER: Of course people should be more aware. When you come up on them, why don’t you say “excuse me, on your left”? That way you tell them which way you are coming as well as warning them to move over.

LILLIE-BETH’S ANSWER: Yes, it would be nice if people were more aware. Will they be? Not necessarily. All you can do is warn them of your approach in enough time for them to move out of your way, with a “Coming up!” warning or “Runner coming through” or something like that. I don’t know why the walkers don’t realize that some are using the track for serious exercise and keeping a certain pace, and I understand your frustration. While it’s OK for them to enjoy their time visiting with friends at a leisurely pace, it would be nice if they were aware of their surroundings, too. Can you raise awareness of this problem by working with the gym itself?

HELEN’S ANSWER: Probably the gym staff needs to be more aware of this problem and post walking/running rules for the indoor and outdoor track. You should not have to slow your pace to get around others. Slower gym enthusiasts need to stay to the inside and should not take up the track talking to a friend. They can walk on the streets for the friendship bonding. A track is for people who need to maintain a pace for health reasons, to train for a race, or to just run for the joy of running.