The article discusses the author's personal gym experience, highlighting an instance of charming flirtation that led to a meaningful relationship. The author argues against the prevailing mindset of keeping to oneself in the gym, suggesting that respectful flirting can enhance social interaction. However, they emphasize that certain behaviors, like invading personal space or making sexualized comments, should be strictly avoided. The piece advocates for a more open and respectful approach to social connections in fitness spaces, particularly noting the experiences of queer individuals who often navigate these dynamics with more awareness.
Many queer people are already on board with this and have written lots of thoughtful guides that straight people can learn from.
You bother someone with their headphones on, in the middle of their set? You sexualize their body as an opening line? You neg their form?
As a former fitness instructor and competitive powerlifter who has spent innumerable hours in fitness spaces, I'd like to make a controversial claim: Against the prevailing advice to mind one's business in the gym, people should be flirting with each other more.
The way some people flirt at the gym is creepy, and it's got to go.
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