Asking someone to spot (that is, to help you with lifting) for you at the gym can be tricky – if there are no members of staff available at the gym and you need to ask a fellow gym user, here’s how to do it, and what to expect from them…
I’ve been using the same gym for almost 5 years, and although I don’t know many people by name, I know lots by sight. We’re all creatures of habit and, thanks to watching out of the corner of my eye, I know who I consider to be “safe” and is a considerate gym user. That’s step 1! And it doesn’t take as long as 5 years, fortunately – I have people figured out pretty quickly.
Keep an eye on your fellow gym users – do they pay attention to their training buddies, or are they away with the fairies/playing on their phone/flirting with someone? Do they train in a way that’s appropriate – can they handle the weights that they choose, or are they forever struggling to impress the person they’re flirting with? Do they tidy up after themselves, and give other people space, or do they leave stuff lying around and refuse to move when others approach the weight rack? All of these are clues as to whether they’re a Considerate Person or a Dickhead. Yes, I said it.
Whilst their body language and habits are a good indication, you still have to pluck up the courage to ask. Rule number one is to not do this whilst they’re mid-set or mid-lift. Wait until they’ve finished what they’re doing – it’s just dangerous to interrupt someone who’s lifting, particularly if it’s a free weight. Whilst you’re waiting, get set up – prepare the barbell or dumbbells at the weight you’d like to lift, so that you’re set up. Most people will assume that you’re ready and waiting to go, so they’ll want to crack on and help you – be ready! Then, take a deep breath, make eye contact, and just ask. “Hi, would you please spot my next set?” The vast majority will say, “I’d be happy to”, and follow you straight over to your station.
You’ll want to quickly explain what it is that you’re doing, as it isn’t always obvious – this also fully proves that not everyone in the gym is watching you at all times; whilst the person you’ve asked is happy to help, they may have no clue whether you were squatting or pressing. Experienced spotters will ask you this, but in case they don’t, before you settle down to start, let them know how many reps you’re aiming for. It may also help them to know how many more sets you’re planning after this one (if at all) – those of us who really know what we’re doing will use this information to inform how much we let you struggle, and how quickly we dive in to rescue you (there’s nothing more annoying than someone who is one extreme or the other – that they grab the bar off you at the slightest wobble, or leave it until you’re squashed; note to self – do not ask this person for a spot again!).
Now you’re ready to go: settle down, and trust your spotter to do their job. Focus on your form. Let them help you – they may count out loud, they may not, so be prepared to do your own counting, and don’t be afraid to shout, “spot!” if you’re struggling and they haven’t sprung into action. The truly great spotters will start offering words of encouragement, or reminders that “it’s all you” halfway through the set, plus a “well done” once the weights are safe.
Congratulations, you successfully asked for a spotter and managed the relationship! Watch your lifts get ever stronger.