The gym is a fascinating place, somehow managing to bring together people who wouldn’t normally meet.

In the weight room, you have the classic gym rat — tan, big shoulders and skinny legs. This breed of exercise enthusiast likes to participate in exclusive handshakes with his fellow bros while violently banging his head to the tune of the heavy metal song pulsing through headphones.

On the track, you can find a few people wearing jeans, counting on their hands how many laps they have completed. Sometimes these people are holding hands with a significant other, but they are always wearing white New Balance sneakers with disproportionately long laces. (I’m serious. I conducted a study. It’s science.)

With so many different types of people in one space, there are bound to be misunderstandings. I’ve compiled a quick guide to what I consider gym etiquette. Some of it may seem like common sense, but based on my experiences, it’s not common sense for everyone.

Hopefully, these tips are something the gym rats and the jean wearers can agree on.  

1) Just say no to cologne and perfume

I realize everyone gets sweaty and doesn’t smell so great during a workout, but attempting to mask it with cologne/perfume is not the answer.

2)Personal space is important

If a mat is completely empty, take advantage of the space. Don’t cozy up next to the only other person stretching with your sweaty, cologne-wearing self.

3)Focus on the task at hand

It’s easy to get distracted by your phone, but if you’re about to use a machine, there’s likely other people waiting. The majority of the time, it can wait.

4)This isn’t American Idol

I’m sure your workout playlist is full of extremely motivating and powerful stuff. But exercising your vocal chords instead of your legs can get distracting.

*BONUS TIP (for guys):

Do not hit on a girl at the gym. It doesn’t matter how tight the yoga pants or how low the tank top — please don’t do it. She’s likely in the zone (or trying to appear in the zone), and being hit on will break her concentration and render her self-conscious for the rest of her gym visit.