Gym Equipment Retention Strategies

Now becoming a regular and having a daily routine at the gym I have begun to notice things that people do at the gym that absolutely drive me nuts. Specifically it is the claiming of gym equipment that aggravates me the most. This is not because people are using equipment that I want but more that they are selfish about it. Meaning that they will stay on, with or by the equipment for long period of time without using it. Not to mention every once in a while if you ask to use it they either get bent out of shape or flat out deny your request. So in commemoration of gym equipment retention I bring you 4 solid strategies to ensure you keep the equipment you are using.

#1 - The Squatter
This is the most common form of equipment claiming I see on a daily basis. All you need to do to achieve this strategy is  If you are looking for an easy strategy this is the one you want to go with. Simply find the piece of equipment you want to use for at least 30 minutes. From here simply use the equipment as much as you want while ensuring you are always connected to the equipment. The key to this technique is to not get off or let go of the equipment in use even during resting periods. 

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#2 - The Proclamation
This is less common and is fairly exclusive to free weights but it can sometime be seen on machines. In this approach you simply claim your equipment by firmly placing one foot on the desired equipment. This will result in a strong claim of the equipment in question. This will also assert your authority in the area letting everyone know you mean business when it comes to the equipment you are using. If you want to mix up your claiming from just sitting this is the next step.

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#3 - The Huddle
This method is more social then the other isolated methods. It requires at least 1 gym partner or friend doing the same machine rotation as yourself. The principle with this method is to use your rest period conversing with your colleagues. When it is your turn you use the equipment being used by the group and continue as a group until you are finished with the machine. This has the added benefit that you can catch up with your buddies while getting your work out in. This also provides the perfect excuse to hog gym equipment because their is a group of individuals using the equipment instead of just one.

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#4 - The Fortress
This strategy was completely unknown to me until I saw it in practice. This doesnt require any special other than claiming a location or area to perform most of your work out. Once you have a spot claimed carefully placing equipment in use around the work out area. This creates a natural border for your area while automatically showing your ownership of the equipment in use. This method has one additional benefit that is particularly for the opposite sex or for anyone you are looking to attract. With all of the equipment used and housed in one area you can show off what you have done without ever saying a word. This strategy is great for those that love the gym, are looking for love, and are shy. 

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