Don’t approach people that are brand new to the gym. Let them get familiar with the gym before you try to make friends. Make sure your gym has regulars that you feel you could become friends with.
Talking with people before a workout or after a shower are the best times. Wearing old gym clothes and being smelly can both make bad first impressions. Speaking with someone after their workout might make them feel self-conscious about their appearance.
You can try looking for friends on your gym’s social media profile. There are websites and apps that help you find local workout partners. Try looking for a partner that is near your fitness level. Finding someone with the same fitness goals or favorite workouts can be a good idea.
Ask yourself if you want the relationship to stay at the gym or go outside of it. Decide if you are looking for a work-out partner, friend or a new romance. Always act in a way that is in-line with the type of relationship you want to build.
Try offering a compliment about something they are wearing. Ask them where they found their workout gear. Try asking about any classes or sports teams you could join.
You could try asking how to turn on a treadmill. You might need help understanding how to use a weight machine. You could ask if someone knows the proper form for lifting weights.
Some weight based exercises require a partner to do safely. Running with someone can be a great way to talk and get in a workout. Working out with someone can provide extra motivation to push yourself harder.
Don’t talk to someone if they have ear buds in or headphones on. Avoid approaching someone if they are lifting weights, running hard or are otherwise heavily working out. Try to speak with people before or directly after their workouts.
Even if you are trying to be genuinely helpful, most people won’t appreciate being critiqued. Telling someone how to do a workout without being asked will likely prevent you from starting a new friendship or romantic relationship.
Genuinely complimenting someone’s technique or ability can be a better way to start a conversation. People may be made uncomfortable by compliments that are too forward. Avoid making such remarks if you are trying to build a new friendship or romance. Offering compliments about someone’s workout gear or workout plans can be safe.
Some men may try to impress a women or person at the gym by lifting as heavy as they can, grunting, yelling or flexing. Most people won’t even notice this behavior and may actually be annoyed by it. People who focus on looking good or showing off at the gym instead of working out, might not be taken very seriously by fellow gym goers.
