Unfortunately, when conduct and safety standards are unknown or ignored, peoplecanend up feeling out of place.

To me, the greatest horror is when someone comes up to meafterclass and says, “Thanks!

That was my first time and I loved it.”

Christina Phipps, a certified instructor who has taught full-body barbell classes for three years, agrees.

Still, if you might, c’mon sign up in advance.

Not only does this guarantee you a seat, but it helps us start on time.

This is a time-suck, and awkward for everyone involved.

It’s also more considerate of your fellow students.

“It throws everyone off, including people next to you.”

I truly don’t care if you don’t feel like doing an all-out sprint on a given day.

That said, you do have to listen.

Other times, I’ve had people just ignore me for 45 minutes.

Doing your own thing throws off everyone around you, and it’s incredibly awkward.

A little chitchat is fine, but yapping over the instructor the entire time is simply rude.

But don’t spend the whole class answering emails or texting.

I know that sounds obvious, but you’d be shocked by how many people do it.

You rush to do it but struggle to catch up, potentially injuring yourself in the process.

It’s a recipe for disaster.

Take advantage of it!

If a movement feels wrong, stop doing it.

The teacher may notice and ask what’s up, and you’re able to get real-time help.

If you don’t feel comfortable doing that or the class is packed, go up to them afterward.

Either way, don’t attempt to push through or you may regret it.

But don’t come to class and treat it like its a life or death scenario.

That will only stress you (and everyone else) out.

Don’t be mean to other people.

If I see you making fun of someone, you’re out.

I don’t care that you’re having a bad day.

You have to go.

Don’t forget that, or let yourself get too in your head.

You’re not there to impress them and certainly not there to beat them.

You’re there for yourself.

“Have fun with it and allow yourself to laugh,” suggests Phipps.

“These classes are hard when you first start, but try not to expect perfection.

Just let the high energy in the classroom carry you through.”

If a class isn’t providing that energy, find another one.

I’ve taken a lot of awful classes in my life.

I simply didn’t go back.

Only attend a class if it’s benefitting your fitness routine in some way.

Rella adds: “Go in with an open mind and an outgoing attitude.

You hate it and youre out of there in an hour, max.”