Why Sitting on Gym Equipment to Use Your Phone Is a Problem

Have you been to a gym recently? If so, you might have noticed a strange — and surprisingly common — trend. People are sitting on gym equipment not to exercise, but to scroll through their phones.

They are not lifting. They are not adjusting the weights. They are not warming up or cooling down. They are just sitting — texting, watching videos, checking social media. Meanwhile, others stand nearby waiting. Sometimes patiently. Sometimes not.

To be clear, taking short breaks between sets is part of any good workout. But that is not the issue. The problem begins when the equipment turns into a phone lounge. Machines are not chairs. They are shared tools meant for exercising — not for checking notifications.

Ask someone politely if they are finished using the machine, and you might get a confused look. Or worse, a rude response. The discomfort is real — not only because of the delay it causes, but because of the lack of basic gym etiquette.

What makes things more frustrating is that many gym managers do not address the problem. Maybe they want to avoid confrontation, or maybe they assume it is not worth the effort. But the result is the same: a space that becomes less functional for everyone who is there to actually train.

This is not about banning phones from the gym. Phones have a purpose — for music, tracking workouts, or checking exercise form. But sitting on a leg press machine for ten minutes while replying to messages is inconsiderate, especially during peak hours when others are trying to follow their routine.

A gym works best when everyone respects the shared environment. That means being aware of others, managing rest time reasonably, and stepping aside if you need a longer break. It is a small act of courtesy that keeps things moving smoothly for everyone.

The solution is simple: If you are not actively using a machine, do not sit on it. Let others work in while you take your break. Then return when you are ready to continue your set.

Fitness is personal, but the gym is a shared space. Good workouts are built on discipline. Good gym culture is built on respect.

So next time you reach for your phone during a set, ask yourself — am I using this machine, or just sitting on it?

Because in the end, movement builds strength — and respect builds community.