Asking someone to spot you during weightlifting

kbresso

Ok, I know this is probably kind of silly but anyone get nervous about asking some random person at the gym to spot you? For me, as I add more weight for barbell squats, I'm having a harder time getting the weight off the rack. In college, my old boyfriend would spot me and give me the little umph I needed to get it off the rack but now its just me. At 5:00 AM, there aren't that many people lifting and the few that are there keep to themselves.

I know I should just suck it up and deal but I've always been kind of shy, even now at 33 years old.

thefuzz1290

Spotting squats correctly is quite awkward for a stranger to do...however, try asking one of the gym employees if you're nervous about asking a random gym goer.

Rayman79

I completely underdstand your hesitancy, and I actually think most people are unsure of the etiquette of asking a stranger for a spot - myself included (I know everyone at my small gym so it's not an issue).

I think the suggestion of asking a trainer/staff member is a good one - they are paid to help you afterall. Otherwise I think generally people would be pretty happy to help - especially a purdy lady . The worst they'll say is 'no' if they are in the middle of their own routine and can't / don't want to spare the time.

kbresso

Hmm...didn't think about how close you have to get when you're spotting someone on a barbell squat. It wasn't a big deal with my boyfriend probably different with a stranger. And the staff? Just one guy at the front at 5:00 AM. Maybe I'll switch to dumbbells. Thanks for your comments guys.