A Friendly Reminder

By Raquel "Rocky" Herron, Fitness Manager

Fall is definitely in the air, and I couldn't be happier.  With fall comes pumpkin everything, football, and cooler temperatures.  Cooler days and evenings mean more traffic flow here at Pearce and we are happy that our members are returning to the gym after a hot summer.  Before the busy season hits, I thought I'd take the time to write down a few friendly reminders pertaining to the gym.  As a disclaimer, please know that I'm not barking at you, but rather gently reminding you about rules and behaviors that make our center a great place to get fit.  Emily Post may have me beat in everything else etiquette, but I think I'm well versed in the rules and courtesies of the gym.  So, let's get to it!

I suppose the number one rule at any fitness facility is to pick up after yourself.  Please return any fitness equipment you may use, whether it's re-stacking the plates, removing plates from the leg press or barbell, or simply returning a kettlebell to its rightful home.  Returning items ensures that the next member will not have to search for and/or remove weights, which may be too heavy for that particular member.  Plus, fitness staff is constantly using different tools to train clients and teach class, so we greatly appreciate it when we don't have to search for a particular item or unload 500 pounds of weight to use a machine.  

Now, on to germ control. Please, WIPE it down!  Please use the provided towels and disinfectant that we have set out at various locations around the different fitness rooms.  It only takes a minute to wipe down a machine or bench after use and it helps cut down on the spread of germs from person to person.  This is especially true as we head into flu season.  We want you to stay healthy!  In the event the towels are low or the disinfectant has been used up, please let us know.  We appreciate you taking the time to keep the center clean.  

Next up, group fitness courtesies. I realize that sometimes getting to a class on time is a struggle, and I understand.  Should you find that you cannot get to class on time, it's ok, but we do ask that you enter class quietly as not to disturb other members.  The same applies for exiting a class.  As instructors, we try to help everyone in the class, so if you know that you're going to be late for certain classes, let us know so we can try to accommodate you.  And if Dan Razo is in that class, you better believe he's going to make sure you're all set up and ready to go when you get in!  We want you in class!  

Last but not least, respect.  Please respect our facility and our rules.  Pearce is truly a second home to me and I hope that members feel the same.  With that being said, we ask that you treat our center like you would treat possessions in your own home.  We try to provide our members with up-to-date programs and quality fitness equipment.  We appreciate your respect and care when using the equipment and other amenities in our facility.  This gives our equipment a greater chance of lasting longer to be enjoyed for years to come.  The same applies to rules that we set.  We set rules to ensure safety and to prevent accidents.  Please abide by these rules as this helps us tremendously.

Thank you for taking the time to read my article this month.  While I know it may not have been the most interesting, it is necessary.  Sometimes we need gentle reminders and that's not a bad thing.  Exercising these habits helps ensure fellow gym goers have a positive experience when they visit Pearce.  Stay strong, be happy!