There are advantages to having a regular schedule.  If you have the advantage of training at the same time every day, and training at the same gym, then you will inevitably see the same set of “regulars” each time you are there.

For many people, the gym is their “third place.”  We have home and work, but we all need one more place to feel at home and call our own, our “third place.”  The gym is my third place.  I love going to the gym because I enjoy working out.  But it’s also nice to see a set of friendly faces each day.

These are not my best friends, and for a great majority I probably don’t know their name.  But they are someone I say hello to, greet with a smile, and get a smile in return.  We’re all compadres in the “iron game” and members of the same society, “Those in quest of fitness and muscle.”  There is a great sense of belonging and comradery that comes from being a part of such a group.

You don’t need to be a wildly social person.  I tend to be quite shy around people I don’t know.  But by simply saying hello and acknowledging that you see them, you are doing more than being friendly.  You are affirming your commitment in the gym, plus you’re giving them a nod for showing up one more time and being dedicated and diligent.

All you have to do is say “hello.”  A quick acknowledgment is all it takes.  Obviously, there are people who don’t want to be bothered or are in their own world, securely removed by headphones.  But for the great majority of gym members, they are happy to be greeted.  Take time to be friendly and get to know your fellow gym rats.  You’ll become a part of the gym family and increase your support system.  Better gains are sure to follow.