THINGS THAT ANNOY YOUR FITNESS INSTRUCTOR
There's a certain type of etiquette that we all learned early on
for school, but there were still kids who irritated the teacher: the gum
chewer, the Chatty Cathy, and the slacker, to name a few. In a fitness class,
it's not too different; there are a set of rules with similar expectations —
and, of course, those who just won't comply. What's worse than detention? Not
getting the right attention in fitness class. Find out who these offenders are
so that you don't become one of them.
The Fashionably Late:
Instructors will often wait for everyone to arrive before they
begin class. Remember: if you can always be late, then you can
always be early.
The Groomer: Don't
focus more on your appearance than on the exercise. By constantly fixing your
bun in class, you're not only taking your mind off of your form, but you're
also shifting your classmates attention away from the instructor. If you
absolutely have to do a touch-up, try to make it quick!
The Disappearing Act:
Teachers understand when you have to use the restroom, but timing is key. If
you leave in the middle of an exercise, then they might assume one of two
things: either you are having an emergency or you are quitting. To earn the
respect of your instructor, go during a natural break (i.e. after the exercise
is over).
The Sleepyhead:
Whether you're working out early in the a.m. or after work, you are likely
tired. Teachers understand, because it happens to them, too! But yawning right
in the middle of class can convey to your teacher that you're bored or not
challenging yourself. Try yawning with your mouth shut instead. Your eyes might
water, but it is subtle enough to disguise from your instructor. Another trick:
just cover your mouth with your shirt.
The Clean Freak:
This might be the one and only time somebody objects to you cleaning. Although
your instructor may appreciate that you sanitize your space, the last thing
your neighbor wants is to hear during Savasana is you spraying your mat or
smell the strong odor of cleaning wipes. Pick the right time to clean your
area, move to another room, or wait until class if officially over.
The Rebel: It's
perfectly fine to leave class early if you have a commitment. Just let your
teacher know ahead of time. This way you won't be disrupting the class or
irritating your instructor. They will gladly send you on your way and share
with you the best time to exit if you just communicate with them.