Working out in the cruise ship gym might not be the first thing on your mind when planning a vacation. However, for many cruisers, it’s actually a great way to stay active between delicious meals and tropical cocktails.
In fact, plenty of cruisers use their cruise vacation as motivation to start working out for the first time!
However, unlike a local gym, cruise ship fitness centers are shared space with limited equipment, and proper gym etiquette is key to keeping it enjoyable for everyone. Whether squeezing in a quick session before formal night or hitting the treadmill on a sea day, knowing the cruise ship etiquette rules can make a huge difference.
From wiping down machines to not treating the weight training area like your personal hangout spot, here’s everything you need to know about staying active during your cruise vacation.
1. Clean the Equipment Once You’re Done Using It
Cruise ship gyms are shared spaces, and maintaining hygiene is crucial, especially in a setting where passengers worldwide are coming and going. Most cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, Virgin Voyages, and Carnival Cruise Line, provide disinfectant wipes and spray bottles to help keep gym equipment clean.
It’s a good idea to wipe it down whenever you finish using a piece of equipment, whether it’s a stationary bike, cable crossover machine, or free weights. Many cruise ship fitness centers also provide gym towels, which can help minimize sweat buildup on machines and benches.
The good news is that fitness center staff frequently restock cleaning supplies and encourage passengers to practice proper gym etiquette. However, it’s still common sense to do your part.
This small courtesy helps keep the cruise ship gym a perfect place for every cruiser to enjoy their workouts while maintaining a pleasant wellness experience on their cruise vacation.
2. Keep in Mind That the Fitness Center is a Shared Space
Cruise ship gyms are smaller than most land-based gyms, limiting space and exercise equipment. The gym can get crowded during busy times, such as sea days or mornings before breakfast.
To guarantee every cruiser gets a chance to use the fitness area, it’s important to be mindful of your time on machines.
Avoid spending too much time on a single piece of equipment, especially when others are waiting. Additionally, don’t sit on a machine while scrolling through your phone or having a long conversation.
Not only does this take up valuable space, but it also prevents others from completing their workouts.
The best way to make the fitness center enjoyable for everyone is to get your workout inefficiently and then leave. This way, all cruisers can make the most of the gym while staying active during their cruise vacation.
3. Always Put Gym Equipment Back When You Found It
Keeping the fitness area organized is key to proper gym etiquette. Always return free weights, resistance bands, or other gym equipment to their designated spots after use. In a small gym setting, clutter creates hazards and makes it harder for others to find what they need.
If you’re in the weight training area, re-rack your weights and clear any exercise equipment you’ve used. While fitness center staff help maintain order, it’s common sense to clean up after yourself.
A tidy cruise ship gym allows everyone to enjoy their fitness experience during their cruise vacation.
4. The Fitness Center is Not For Kids
Cruise ship fitness centers are for adults and older teens, not a play area for kids. Most cruise lines require guests to be at least 16 years of age unless supervised by an onboard personal trainer.
Letting kids run around exercise equipment like treadmills, weight machines, or stationary bikes is dangerous and disruptive to other passengers. Instead, younger cruisers can stay active on sports courts, jogging tracks, or in the kids club.
Keeping the gym kid-free ensures a safe, distraction-free workout environment for other cruisers.
5. Don’t Drop Weights
When using free weights, always lower them gently instead of dropping them. Not only can this damage the equipment, but it also creates loud noises that disturb passengers in cabins below the gym.
Many cruise ship gyms are located above staterooms or spa areas, so excessive noise can be disruptive. If you’re lifting heavy, consider using weight machines or controlled movements to protect the gym equipment and the peace of fellow cruisers.
6. Respect Others’ Personal Space
Cruise ship fitness centers can be compact, so being mindful of close proximity to others is key. Avoid standing too close when someone is using exercise equipment, and don’t hover while waiting for a particular machine.
If the gym is crowded, be aware of your movements, especially in the weight training area or near free weights. Give others enough room to exercise safely, and if you need to wait, step aside rather than invade their space.
A little courtesy provides a comfortable workout for everyone on board.
7. Don’t Over Socialize
It’s fine to say hi if you run into a fellow passenger, but the fitness center isn’t the place for long conversations. Chatting too much can disrupt others’ workouts and take up gym equipment.
The best way to be considerate is to keep interactions brief and let people stay focused. The gym is meant for efficient workouts so passengers can stay active and enjoy the rest of their cruise vacation.
Save the longer conversations for the lido deck, main dining room, or sports courts instead!
8. Don’t Be Too Noisy
Be mindful of your noise level, whether chatting with a friend or exhaling during a heavy lift. Excessive grunting, loud conversations, or dropping free weights can disrupt other passengers trying to focus on their workouts.
Since cruise ship gyms are often near cabins, spa areas, or lounges, keeping the noise down ensures a better experience for everyone. Stay aware of your surroundings and keep your workout as quiet and efficient as possible.
9. Don’t Hurt Yourself
If it’s your first time in a gym, start light and avoid unfamiliar exercises to prevent injury. Cruise ships can sway at sea, making balance more challenging, especially when using free weights or weight machines.
The last thing you want is to get hurt and ruin your cruise vacation!
If you don’t know how to use a piece of equipment, don’t hesitate to ask a fitness center staff member. Many cruise ship gyms offer equipment orientation or personal training sessions to help you work out safely.
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Happy Cruising!
Ethan
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Ethan Schattauer, a seasoned cruiser since the age of four, has gone on over 40 cruises with his family. Drawing from his extensive travel experiences, Ethan offers a fresh and youthful perspective on the world of cruising. He also writes about cruise cuisine, onboard experiences, and practical tips, providing valuable insights for cruise travelers worldwide.
