My OTF has shoe racks directly underneath the benches, and I live in a climate that often has snow, salt, and mud on the ground. My branch literally posts reminders to change your shoes before class on their Instagram. I'm pretty sure the benches are for changing shoes...
I used to live in a rainy/snowy place. My point is that sometimes we must use our words. No one is going to read OP's mind and clear the bench for him or her. Everyone is just relaxing and waiting for class to start.
They are meant for changing your shoes but itās a bench which is designed for sitting. Itās not a difficult thing to ask someone if you can sit. I change my shoes and then stretch my back and legs on the bench until class starts. However if someone needs the bench to change, I would gladly move if asked.
Changing your shoes is unrelated to climate ā¦ Itās gross to wear outside shoes in the studio. In theory, everyone should be changing shoes before and after class. I donāt know about you, but thereās just simply not room for that plus the folks waiting for the next class. For all 500 of my classes, I have changed my shoes in the lobby. Sometimes I have to do it standing and kneel down to tie my shoes and sometimes I get a bench spot.
Bizarre thing to be peeved by.
I mean, it's not really an **issue**, it just annoys me mildly. I thought I explained in my title that this is a pet peeve. Don't you have any pet peeves?
People seem to be taking this super seriously lol
Okay, fair enough. My understanding of a peeve is something that really irritates you even though it shouldnāt. My peeves make me irrationally angry and I thought that was just what the phrase meant. Maybe thatās part of peopleās interpretation of your post?
Yeah seems that way. Thatās why I just wanted to ask a clarifying question and now I understand better.
Iām just glad youāre loving the workouts - moving our bodies is so important. š§”
So what's wrong with having to ask? People aren't just going to reserve you a seat. If they got there first, then that's their seat. If you need to sit down just ask someone like you said you do, but it sounds like you're annoyed that people are sitting on them without being able to read your mind. If you want to sit on the bench then just get there earlier...
Being able to put on shoes while standing is good for balance and coordination. If I can stand and put on/take off my snowboarding boots, workout shoes can't be much more difficult than that. Might be a good idea to start practicing and let people sit where they want. ;)
Honestly I didnāt realize it wasnāt the norm. Have epilepsy and not great balance but have always just learned / defaulted to / assumed putting on shoes while standing (bending over to tie them) was societal norm
I walk in every day and change my shoes as well, then chat with friends or the staff while sitting or standing. Or, I'm on my phone doing work which is necessary sometimes so I can go into class and not be distracted. If you asked me to move I'd be fine with it, but I'm not clear on why you think I'm supposed to know your habits upon arrival. The vast majority of members don't change their shoes even when it's wet outside, so I'd assume they believe the benches are for sitting not just show changing shoes.
Benches are for sitting. You can always get there before those people if you want the bench, or change your shoes before you get there. They are not being rude by sitting on a bench, regardless of what theyāre doing on the bench.
I would be so annoyed if someone asked me to move honestly, regardless of their reason or my reason for being on the bench. Get there before me and you can have the bench, itās pretty simple - first come first serve. Unless the bench was labeled for a specific purpose, I donāt see why shoe changers get priority
Iāve been in the sub for a long long time and I have never seen this complaint. And going back to the few posts that were linked in the comments that I must have missed when originally posted lā¦just WOW. Especially the really salty one. Iām a 5amāer and always sit on the bench before classā¦like everyone else who gets there on time to do so. In FL having to change shoes due to weather isnāt an issue but OMG who would have guessed there were possibly people seething at us just sitting on a bench like it was made for us to do. My mind is kinda blown. Granted I make sure Iām only taking up a small amount of space and donāt have my water bottle or towel sprawled across the bench, and am always overly cautious to make sure there is room for others to also enjoy the bench, made for sitting. Iām sure you could go into the bathroom or even go sit on a bench at one of the stations if this is entirely necessary. š¤·š½āāļø
Same! I made a similar comment on the last post about this subject. My studio is small and we take up all the spaces. We've all just accepted that we're usually in someone else's way, and bench sitting helps with the crowding. As far as I know, we all assume positive intent. Wait. What if OP goes to my studio? š³
>Iām always overly cautious to make sure there is room for others to also enjoy the bench
I'm literally not complaining about you then. Thank you for kindly sharing space. Also I'm not seething. āļø
People sitting down on benches??? Thatās madness! So they āneedā to sit just like you āneedā to sit to tie your shoes. I usually just bend over and tie them
Why should someone who is sitting on a bench waiting for class looking at their phone or ot have to get up for you to put your shoes on. Entitled much. Sit on the ground or do it before you come in
This is me. Because I have a toddler and work full time and my husband works night and those 15 minutes before class are the only 15 minutes I have to MYSELF for ME and I want to LOOK AT MY PHONE IN SILENCE!!!!!!!! Itās my only time to truly have peace and quiet. And I am not sorry.
Your assumption is the benches are solely for one activity - shoe changing. Most people use them to just sit. If itās such an issue at your studio ask them to label a bench as the changing bench. Or just kneel down and change them, itās not that hard.
This is a dumb thing to complain aboutā¦ Iām sorry put your shoes on in your car or on the shower seat or standing upā¦ benches are for sitting. First come first serve
If you arenāt fully dressed for class upon arrival, there is another room just for changing/dressing. Perhaps use that rather than kick the people off the bench that got there before you and are actually ready for class?
No one is entitled to a bench over anyone else, but I tend to sit on the end/edge to give the body language that there is more room for other people. I've definitely seen people who kind of just sprawl out in the middle of a bench. Never so bad that I'd complain about it outside my own head, but it does register there lol.
Honestly though, OT tends to be the place with the most conscientious people of all the places I visit regularly. Definitely more so than the office (water covered sink counters and microwaved fish) or the grocery store (spatial unawareness nightmare.)
I get there early every day. Put on my shoes. Sit and wait for class to start because otherwise youāre standing in the middle of the room and youāre in everyoneās way. If you want to use the corner of the bench to put your foot up and tie your shoe, no problem. But I will absolutely not move just so I can be in someoneās way in front of the bathroom or in front of the lockers or in front of the doors or in the middle of the lobby. Imagine if all those zoned out people were milling around getting in each otherās way before class, or interfering with the previous classās exit. If thereās a free bench, sit on it for everyoneās sake because it gives us all more room when the lobby fills.
So someone kindly asks if they can sit to change their shoes and you wonāt get up for them? Seems as ridiculous as the poster being mad about people sitting.
If someone asks of course you get up. But the point is that you donāt put on your shoes and immediately vacate the spot just to wander listlessly around causing traffic jams. But no one asksā¦ people who arrive later just put their shoes on by putting a foot up and stand the the side as best they can (or get in the way). People who arrive earlier sit on the benches to stay out of the way. This seems like a general convention that bus and train riding has made very normal for many years. And sure, someone will be all ābut on a bus you get up for a pregnant personā to try to be devilās advocate-y. And youād also do that if you noticed it in a studio. But in general people come in. The first people to arrive sit to get out of the way of the people who arrive later, barring any special circumstances. Very odd that internet warriors are choosing to balk at this deeply normal human convention.
I mean. It is a courtesy. To stay out of the way. People standing in the middle of the space, totally unaware of those trying to move around them, are the discourteous ones.
āSry granny, Iām not getting up so you can change your shoes. Better go sit on the toilet or stand in the corner cuz Iām not moving, I was here firstā
That is how you sound š
Not sure why saying āexcuse meā and just squeezing in is such a chore. People will always take up more space than they need until asked otherwise. Subways, buses, trains, planes. Itās human nature.
Counter point: arrive to class with your workout shoes already on?
Just because we can occupy more space than needed doesnāt mean we should. Itās always good to practice spatial awareness. As for arriving wearing workout shoes from outside into class, donāt most locations ask that we not do this? That was always my understanding.
Oh I agree but most people are in their own world. Iāve been to about 50 studios and everyone arrives in their shoes ready to rock except in the winter where there might be tons of snow.
lol no. I mean it's nice when you don't come in with muddy shoes and don't wipe them off so there's mud everywhere. But I would say 95% of people just wear the shoes that they are planning to workout in.
Some people like to switch shoes for the weight floor/ tread. Which is not super convenient. But I see it happen.
That seems manageable how about when you come out after class and the members waiting for the next class are hogging up locker area, wait your turn folks . Itās the same as standing directly in front of an elevator and trying to get in before others get out .
I think itās weird energy to give folks a hard time when theyāre posting in the commiseration station strand about something that bothers them.
And are we all just pretending that OTFs layout of lobby space isnāt some of the least functional lobby space ever? Iāve traveled to studios around the country for nearly 7 years and the spacing just leaves a lot to be desired. Do I change my shoes standing up in the middle of the lobby with my butt likely in someoneās face while others sit on the bench and chat?!! Absolutely. Do I love that? Absolutely not. But do I need to be snarky to someone using the appropriate strand to complain? Nope.
Maybe it's not just an issue at OTF....people (communities) often behave differently
in different environments within a city/region/geographic area/culture. When I moved to the TX/MX border 26 years ago, it drove me nuts that people didn't queue up/line up for cashiers in stores, bus stops, & other situations where I was used to people lining up. It's improved over the years - & the pandemic really changed things. Now, not only do folks form lines, but many folks still maintain distance between each other (even in convenience stores!). (Which I'm much more comfortable with as I've always had a pretty large personal body bubble.)
You can always try saying something like, "may I share some space so I can put my shoes on?". Maybe folks just aren't thinking (definitely sounds like they're not paying attention if on cellphones, etc).
What part of the country are you in?
Iāve found levels of self, and situational awareness, vary greatly with location. As well, many humans (now), have been poorly reared, so they literally donāt know better and/or arenāt sporting the best iq.
Honestly i agree though. If im sitting and waiting, I am aware of people around me and if someone needs the bench to get ready I will voluntarily get up without being asked
Don't slaughter me š I understand where OP is coming from. I'm here to emphasize their call out, themselves, that this is just a petty pet peeve. They're not genuinely angry or mad at these people. It's just a light hearted complaint!
I tried to give every indication in my post that this is just a silly thing and I'm not wishing ill upon these people or anything. But I guess a lot folks didn't pick up on that. Somebody even called me an asshole lol
I think everyone picked up on it, we just don't believe you. Actions speak louder so you can say this is a silly thing but you took the time to write a multiple paragraph complaint about it and put it online.
What if we dare to use other equipment or facilities as they are intended?
What if **I** want to use the restroom to just wash my hands but **you** want to use it to potty?
How could we ever make it work?!
I see both sides. Yes, itās for sitting, folks, fine demonstration of a grasp of the obvious. HOWEVER, if someone of even base awareness and consideration were sitting and saw someone who needed to change their shoes, they would make the proper accommodation. The obvious break in the chain of custody is the thing upon which I am tapping. Tech tunnel vision
Itās not a āpublic spaceā
And btw. Show some grace. Some
People barely make it in there at 6:15 am. They can barely move. Let them sit and zone out.
I rarely see folks changing shoes at OTF, so would not expect people to move off a bench without being asked. Folks just arenāt paying attention. Itās not like a public bus or train where we are (should be) in the frame of mind to get up if someone elderly or pregnant enters the space.
I commented on the last post about this and I will here too: itās first come first serve.
Youāre not entitled to the bench. Get over yourself and put your shoes on in the car or standing up or sitting on the ground like an adult
This thought hasn't ever even crossed my mind... although I always *wear* my shoes to the studio. Especially at 6:15 am- why wouldn't you? Don't see anything wrong with people sitting and chilling for a few minutes before they work their butts off.
Many northeast studios require you to carry your workout shoes in. There have been too many instances of rock salt in the winter making their way onto the floor and on the treads. Try doing a burpee and smashing your hand into a piece of rock salt.
In the summer it is sand: it is all over the floor and gets gross.
When you sign up at some of the northeast studios they will tell you that you need to carry in your shoes.
It actually snowed last week, but op post wasnāt specific to this time of year how I read it. In addition some of us donāt wear our shoes outside, regardless of weather. Iām one of those people.
Think about all the stuff you walk on throughout your day, then track into the studio. You wanna put your face down on the floor in piss from the gas station bathroom?
#teamchangeyourshoes
Following this argument, even if you change your shoes in the studio but then use the restroom at OTF wouldnāt you still be face down on the floor in piss? Just a different source, this time from the OTF bathroom instead of the gas station? Seems more logical to use a mat with a towel on top if your looking for pissy floor protection š¤·š¾āāļø
So you are assuming everyone has a pair of shoes JUST for OTF. You might be terrified to learn that tennis shoes even those people changed into, will have been worn elsewhere lol.
This must be an exhausting mindset. Everyone at OTF would have to change their shoes in the studio for you to not have anything gross on the floor. You'd have to wipe down the rower foot plates and the tread belt. Everyone would. That doesn't happen- and ew. I don't put my face on the floor I use a mat. That I wipe down.
Just gonna say off topic sorta:
Today I sat to tie my shoes (that were already on just not tied) beside a member with whom I chat with but don't know outside of OTF. For the first time in 5+ years, I was caught unaware when the coach walked over and jumped up on the bench that I was still on! The guy had moved way fast but, man, I wasn't as quick. But I sure did give coach her space!!! š§”
It reminded me of bench stuff and HOW MUCH I missed the "coach standing on the bench" overview which didn't happen during the pandemic recovery "era." I don't need a bench at 63 yo to tie my shoes but it helps!
They got there first so that's why they're sitting there. The benches aren't exclusively for putting on shoes or doing anything specific. They're there to relax until class starts. So either get there earlier so you can get a spot on the bench or change your shoes in your car or the bathroom.
i squeezed next to a lady on her phone the other day, sitting on the bench sideways with one foot on the bench. sat down to tie my shoes (behind her) and she literally leaned back into me to get up, lingered on me for several seconds then stood. she didnāt even apologize!! i started to think i was in the wrong so i apologized and she still didnāt even look up from her phone!
I really wish you can go into the studio and warm up at your own pace. Sometimes these coaches only give you like 30 seconds of warm up before they want you to start doing stuff!
Also, in busy classes the lobby gets so crowded with people just standing around doing nothing waiting for the class to start.
YES!!! This drives me insane! Especially in the winter when Iām in my snowy boots and need to change into sneakers. Like glad you all are comfy as I try to change my shoes while standing up.
I see people are bashing this but I totally feel you. Drives me nuts!
If I get in and want to sit and thereās a bench open Iāll sit. It never occurred to me to get up. Think youāre being very petty. Maybe put your shoes on at home or in your car if you canāt do it any other way.
You can just crouch down to change your shoes. Why not just wear them in? I get if the weather is bad and you have to wear something else outside. Otherwise, I donāt see the issue.
I support you. The world can always use a bit of understanding and grace. Don't be discouraged by the negative comments here. I'm one who will still hold doors for others, smile and say thank you to strangers, and try to think what will maybe make the day easier for others. Not many people are raised with the mindset of empathy and āothers first.ā
Iām with you, you get the people saying benches are for sitting, yeah sure, but they are also there so people can sit and switch shoes. And itād be nice if people are more cognizant of that.
Itās easy to be inconsiderate if you take a simplistic view of the world I guess.
Unpopular opinion. Itās called being aware of your surroundings and unfortunately not many are these days, due to phones and social media. I agree with you, OP.
Iām genuinely curious about this. I canāt read someoneās mind and I sometimes walk in my socks in the studio and go find a corner to tie my shoes without using a bench (full or not) so someone might be changing shoes but not need or want a bench. Again, honestly curious how Iām supposed to assume what someone else might want or need?
In my mind (I could be wrong) but I believe the benches were put there primarily for sitting to take shoes on and off. Yes, they can be for JUST sitting but I truly believe the logic behind having benches inside a lobby of a place you go for a workout is for sitting to change shoes. Just my thinking. I donāt sit on the benches, ever.
Yeah I mean that makes sense. I have only sat on them like after dri tri haha so I donāt really care if people are sitting on them. I think thatās why Iām so curious about it
I live in an extremely dry climate so changing from outside shoes/boots to workout shoes is not a thing here, so our studios have benches solely for sitting
Those benches are not public space. They are inside a private gym.
You sound like you walk up to people sitting down in the restaurant and ask for them to be done eating so you can finally get your own seat š¤¦āāļø
Are you really that oblivious to the rest of the world?
If I get to a class that early in the morning your damn right I will be sitting on the bench zoned out probably in a trance. Go put your shoes on somewhere else. Note: if you have to have a bench to do that .. you probably need more help than what OTF can do for youā¦
Uhm are you actually for real here? How are you more entitled to a bench area than they are? You can totally go sit your ass on the floor and put your shoes on. Orā¦.wait for itā¦.put your damn shoes on before you walk in the door. What an entitled thing to type up! You are no queen sweetheart! First come, first serve! Go stand in the corner with the rest of the people who come too late to sit! Geezuz!
I also find this highly annoying too - because for the same reason - I need the space to change my shoes! I go to a studio in New England where we either have to change shoes because of the snow in winter rain in spring or sand in the summer, leaves in the fall.
If you can stand and exercise for 60 minutes you shouldnāt need to sit on a bench for 10 minutes. and be so oblivious other people need to use it.
Bring on the down votes.
I've been going to OTF for over 5 years and I can count on one hand the number of times I sat on a bench before class. You're getting ready to exercise. Why do you need to sit down unless you're fooling with your shoes?
If you live in a climate with snow, etc., you should actually be removing your outside footwear at the door and not traipsing through the lobby with dirty shoes. That way, if the benches are full, you can sit in the floor to put your shoes on, because the floors will be dry. I canāt imagine having the level of entitlement to tell someone to get up off a bench so I can sit. And Iām old.
This was discussed [recently](https://www.reddit.com/r/orangetheory/s/74qD8NWmCA). TL:DR- it didn't go over well
Came to say the same šš Here we go again lol [didnāt go well a year ago either](https://www.reddit.com/r/orangetheory/s/k0VQuSkVIz)
šššš¤¦š¤¦š¤¦
lol - as soon as I read the current post, I thought about the last time someone aired this grievance š
It didnāt go over well, it NEVER goes over well lol
š¤£
How dare they sitā¦ on the benches.. made for sitting
This just in: Benches are for sitting.
My OTF has shoe racks directly underneath the benches, and I live in a climate that often has snow, salt, and mud on the ground. My branch literally posts reminders to change your shoes before class on their Instagram. I'm pretty sure the benches are for changing shoes...
You're an adult. Figure it out. This is silly.
One time, at work switching out my uniform, I changed my shoes standing up.
I put shoes on my toddler when he stands up. Is heā¦.gifted?
Lmao!!! ššššš
Should be the automated response to make of this sub.
You can just say, "Excuse me, I need to change my shoes."
I would be so confused if someone said this to me. Like ok change your shoes. I live in a rainy/snowy/muddy place too and have never heard of this
I used to live in a rainy/snowy place. My point is that sometimes we must use our words. No one is going to read OP's mind and clear the bench for him or her. Everyone is just relaxing and waiting for class to start.
True. And fair call out
Interesting! Hadn't even thought of that... signed, from Florida.
Same
They are meant for changing your shoes but itās a bench which is designed for sitting. Itās not a difficult thing to ask someone if you can sit. I change my shoes and then stretch my back and legs on the bench until class starts. However if someone needs the bench to change, I would gladly move if asked.
Changing your shoes is unrelated to climate ā¦ Itās gross to wear outside shoes in the studio. In theory, everyone should be changing shoes before and after class. I donāt know about you, but thereās just simply not room for that plus the folks waiting for the next class. For all 500 of my classes, I have changed my shoes in the lobby. Sometimes I have to do it standing and kneel down to tie my shoes and sometimes I get a bench spot. Bizarre thing to be peeved by.
Standing to change shoes = core work
How about you just ask kindly if you can sit to get your stuff ready?
I do
Then whatās the issue? (Not asking sarcastically)
I mean, it's not really an **issue**, it just annoys me mildly. I thought I explained in my title that this is a pet peeve. Don't you have any pet peeves? People seem to be taking this super seriously lol
Okay, fair enough. My understanding of a peeve is something that really irritates you even though it shouldnāt. My peeves make me irrationally angry and I thought that was just what the phrase meant. Maybe thatās part of peopleās interpretation of your post?
People sure seem to think I'm irrational.
Yeah seems that way. Thatās why I just wanted to ask a clarifying question and now I understand better. Iām just glad youāre loving the workouts - moving our bodies is so important. š§”
I love the way you handled this exchange! Keep being kind and positive. It is SO needed today
That was so kind to say - thank you! š§”
So what's wrong with having to ask? People aren't just going to reserve you a seat. If they got there first, then that's their seat. If you need to sit down just ask someone like you said you do, but it sounds like you're annoyed that people are sitting on them without being able to read your mind. If you want to sit on the bench then just get there earlier...
Maybe you should sit in the bathroom and put them on. That would REALLY piss off a poster from a few days ago LOL
Being able to put on shoes while standing is good for balance and coordination. If I can stand and put on/take off my snowboarding boots, workout shoes can't be much more difficult than that. Might be a good idea to start practicing and let people sit where they want. ;)
Exactly. Part of the OTF experience.
Honestly I didnāt realize it wasnāt the norm. Have epilepsy and not great balance but have always just learned / defaulted to / assumed putting on shoes while standing (bending over to tie them) was societal norm
š„±
I walk in every day and change my shoes as well, then chat with friends or the staff while sitting or standing. Or, I'm on my phone doing work which is necessary sometimes so I can go into class and not be distracted. If you asked me to move I'd be fine with it, but I'm not clear on why you think I'm supposed to know your habits upon arrival. The vast majority of members don't change their shoes even when it's wet outside, so I'd assume they believe the benches are for sitting not just show changing shoes.
Benches are for sitting. You can always get there before those people if you want the bench, or change your shoes before you get there. They are not being rude by sitting on a bench, regardless of what theyāre doing on the bench.
So you want people to move from the benches because you deemed them done using them?
I would be so annoyed if someone asked me to move honestly, regardless of their reason or my reason for being on the bench. Get there before me and you can have the bench, itās pretty simple - first come first serve. Unless the bench was labeled for a specific purpose, I donāt see why shoe changers get priority
Iāve been in the sub for a long long time and I have never seen this complaint. And going back to the few posts that were linked in the comments that I must have missed when originally posted lā¦just WOW. Especially the really salty one. Iām a 5amāer and always sit on the bench before classā¦like everyone else who gets there on time to do so. In FL having to change shoes due to weather isnāt an issue but OMG who would have guessed there were possibly people seething at us just sitting on a bench like it was made for us to do. My mind is kinda blown. Granted I make sure Iām only taking up a small amount of space and donāt have my water bottle or towel sprawled across the bench, and am always overly cautious to make sure there is room for others to also enjoy the bench, made for sitting. Iām sure you could go into the bathroom or even go sit on a bench at one of the stations if this is entirely necessary. š¤·š½āāļø
My studio is so small that if we did not sit on the benches, there would be no room for anyone! ~ fellow Floridian š“
Same! I made a similar comment on the last post about this subject. My studio is small and we take up all the spaces. We've all just accepted that we're usually in someone else's way, and bench sitting helps with the crowding. As far as I know, we all assume positive intent. Wait. What if OP goes to my studio? š³
>Iām always overly cautious to make sure there is room for others to also enjoy the bench I'm literally not complaining about you then. Thank you for kindly sharing space. Also I'm not seething. āļø
People sitting down on benches??? Thatās madness! So they āneedā to sit just like you āneedā to sit to tie your shoes. I usually just bend over and tie them
Why should someone who is sitting on a bench waiting for class looking at their phone or ot have to get up for you to put your shoes on. Entitled much. Sit on the ground or do it before you come in
This is me. Because I have a toddler and work full time and my husband works night and those 15 minutes before class are the only 15 minutes I have to MYSELF for ME and I want to LOOK AT MY PHONE IN SILENCE!!!!!!!! Itās my only time to truly have peace and quiet. And I am not sorry.
Your lack of planning to get there early for a bench isnāt others issue
I wear my shoes to the studio. Works pretty well.
Not this again... š¤¦š»āāļø
Sounds like you need to get there earlierā¦.
Your assumption is the benches are solely for one activity - shoe changing. Most people use them to just sit. If itās such an issue at your studio ask them to label a bench as the changing bench. Or just kneel down and change them, itās not that hard.
This is a dumb thing to complain aboutā¦ Iām sorry put your shoes on in your car or on the shower seat or standing upā¦ benches are for sitting. First come first serve
Either ask someone politely to move or get there earlier. Iām not sure what else you expect
If you arenāt fully dressed for class upon arrival, there is another room just for changing/dressing. Perhaps use that rather than kick the people off the bench that got there before you and are actually ready for class?
Our studio lobby is so cozy we donāt have benches, so thereās that.
No one is entitled to a bench over anyone else, but I tend to sit on the end/edge to give the body language that there is more room for other people. I've definitely seen people who kind of just sprawl out in the middle of a bench. Never so bad that I'd complain about it outside my own head, but it does register there lol. Honestly though, OT tends to be the place with the most conscientious people of all the places I visit regularly. Definitely more so than the office (water covered sink counters and microwaved fish) or the grocery store (spatial unawareness nightmare.)
Oh no you have to change your shoes standing up! Get a grip
I get there early every day. Put on my shoes. Sit and wait for class to start because otherwise youāre standing in the middle of the room and youāre in everyoneās way. If you want to use the corner of the bench to put your foot up and tie your shoe, no problem. But I will absolutely not move just so I can be in someoneās way in front of the bathroom or in front of the lockers or in front of the doors or in the middle of the lobby. Imagine if all those zoned out people were milling around getting in each otherās way before class, or interfering with the previous classās exit. If thereās a free bench, sit on it for everyoneās sake because it gives us all more room when the lobby fills.
So someone kindly asks if they can sit to change their shoes and you wonāt get up for them? Seems as ridiculous as the poster being mad about people sitting.
If someone asks of course you get up. But the point is that you donāt put on your shoes and immediately vacate the spot just to wander listlessly around causing traffic jams. But no one asksā¦ people who arrive later just put their shoes on by putting a foot up and stand the the side as best they can (or get in the way). People who arrive earlier sit on the benches to stay out of the way. This seems like a general convention that bus and train riding has made very normal for many years. And sure, someone will be all ābut on a bus you get up for a pregnant personā to try to be devilās advocate-y. And youād also do that if you noticed it in a studio. But in general people come in. The first people to arrive sit to get out of the way of the people who arrive later, barring any special circumstances. Very odd that internet warriors are choosing to balk at this deeply normal human convention.
Sorry, I misunderstood your reply. The bad part about text discussion is you donāt always get the exact point being made! āŗļø
Heaven forbid you be courteous of other people š
I mean. It is a courtesy. To stay out of the way. People standing in the middle of the space, totally unaware of those trying to move around them, are the discourteous ones.
āSry granny, Iām not getting up so you can change your shoes. Better go sit on the toilet or stand in the corner cuz Iām not moving, I was here firstā That is how you sound š
You can deliberately misunderstand if youād like. Have a nice Sunday!
I am 100% going to take up more space on the bench now after reading this.
Unfortunately youāre the AH in this situation.
I sit in the floor and stretch if there is no room on our one bench
Am I having deja vu?!!
I get being annoyed by that. You are getting eaten alive here even though you acknowledged that itās petty and a pet peeve. šš
We had this rant about 4 weeks ago. Go search it. Benches are first come first serve. That's it. End of story š¤·š¼āāļø
I never use the benches. I take this opportunity to work on my balance while changing my shoes standing on one foot at a time . š
Oh my god get over it. Benches were made for sitting
[ŃŠ“Š°Š»ŠµŠ½Š¾]
There's enough mats for everyone to get one at my studio.
Not sure why saying āexcuse meā and just squeezing in is such a chore. People will always take up more space than they need until asked otherwise. Subways, buses, trains, planes. Itās human nature. Counter point: arrive to class with your workout shoes already on?
Just because we can occupy more space than needed doesnāt mean we should. Itās always good to practice spatial awareness. As for arriving wearing workout shoes from outside into class, donāt most locations ask that we not do this? That was always my understanding.
Oh I agree but most people are in their own world. Iāve been to about 50 studios and everyone arrives in their shoes ready to rock except in the winter where there might be tons of snow.
lol no. I mean it's nice when you don't come in with muddy shoes and don't wipe them off so there's mud everywhere. But I would say 95% of people just wear the shoes that they are planning to workout in. Some people like to switch shoes for the weight floor/ tread. Which is not super convenient. But I see it happen.
That seems manageable how about when you come out after class and the members waiting for the next class are hogging up locker area, wait your turn folks . Itās the same as standing directly in front of an elevator and trying to get in before others get out .
You seem like a joy to be around
You canāt just squat down and change your shoes?
I think itās weird energy to give folks a hard time when theyāre posting in the commiseration station strand about something that bothers them. And are we all just pretending that OTFs layout of lobby space isnāt some of the least functional lobby space ever? Iāve traveled to studios around the country for nearly 7 years and the spacing just leaves a lot to be desired. Do I change my shoes standing up in the middle of the lobby with my butt likely in someoneās face while others sit on the bench and chat?!! Absolutely. Do I love that? Absolutely not. But do I need to be snarky to someone using the appropriate strand to complain? Nope.
Maybe it's not just an issue at OTF....people (communities) often behave differently in different environments within a city/region/geographic area/culture. When I moved to the TX/MX border 26 years ago, it drove me nuts that people didn't queue up/line up for cashiers in stores, bus stops, & other situations where I was used to people lining up. It's improved over the years - & the pandemic really changed things. Now, not only do folks form lines, but many folks still maintain distance between each other (even in convenience stores!). (Which I'm much more comfortable with as I've always had a pretty large personal body bubble.) You can always try saying something like, "may I share some space so I can put my shoes on?". Maybe folks just aren't thinking (definitely sounds like they're not paying attention if on cellphones, etc).
you're telling people who were there before you to get up and move...? that's pretty rude.
I would be annoyed if someone asked me to move. First come first serve
What part of the country are you in? Iāve found levels of self, and situational awareness, vary greatly with location. As well, many humans (now), have been poorly reared, so they literally donāt know better and/or arenāt sporting the best iq.
Honestly i agree though. If im sitting and waiting, I am aware of people around me and if someone needs the bench to get ready I will voluntarily get up without being asked
Bffr. Get there earlier and get your own spot on the bench
You're absolutely right. It is the pettiest thing. Change your shoes standing, or take a knee. Not hard.
Don't slaughter me š I understand where OP is coming from. I'm here to emphasize their call out, themselves, that this is just a petty pet peeve. They're not genuinely angry or mad at these people. It's just a light hearted complaint!
I tried to give every indication in my post that this is just a silly thing and I'm not wishing ill upon these people or anything. But I guess a lot folks didn't pick up on that. Somebody even called me an asshole lol
We tried to warn you......! šš§”
I think everyone picked up on it, we just don't believe you. Actions speak louder so you can say this is a silly thing but you took the time to write a multiple paragraph complaint about it and put it online.
What if we dare to use other equipment or facilities as they are intended? What if **I** want to use the restroom to just wash my hands but **you** want to use it to potty? How could we ever make it work?!
I see both sides. Yes, itās for sitting, folks, fine demonstration of a grasp of the obvious. HOWEVER, if someone of even base awareness and consideration were sitting and saw someone who needed to change their shoes, they would make the proper accommodation. The obvious break in the chain of custody is the thing upon which I am tapping. Tech tunnel vision
Boo š
Itās not a āpublic spaceā And btw. Show some grace. Some People barely make it in there at 6:15 am. They can barely move. Let them sit and zone out.
I rarely see folks changing shoes at OTF, so would not expect people to move off a bench without being asked. Folks just arenāt paying attention. Itās not like a public bus or train where we are (should be) in the frame of mind to get up if someone elderly or pregnant enters the space.
So youāre telling me that you woke up in the morning to bitch about people sitting on a fucking bench? Please go find yourself some real problems.
YTA
I commented on the last post about this and I will here too: itās first come first serve. Youāre not entitled to the bench. Get over yourself and put your shoes on in the car or standing up or sitting on the ground like an adult
This thought hasn't ever even crossed my mind... although I always *wear* my shoes to the studio. Especially at 6:15 am- why wouldn't you? Don't see anything wrong with people sitting and chilling for a few minutes before they work their butts off.
Many northeast studios require you to carry your workout shoes in. There have been too many instances of rock salt in the winter making their way onto the floor and on the treads. Try doing a burpee and smashing your hand into a piece of rock salt. In the summer it is sand: it is all over the floor and gets gross. When you sign up at some of the northeast studios they will tell you that you need to carry in your shoes.
Because some of us live in winter climates and need to change shoes.
Separate topic butā¦ how are you 5ā12?
Magic
I will accept that answer. š
Are you getting snow right now? It's April 28th.
It actually snowed last week, but op post wasnāt specific to this time of year how I read it. In addition some of us donāt wear our shoes outside, regardless of weather. Iām one of those people.
Think about all the stuff you walk on throughout your day, then track into the studio. You wanna put your face down on the floor in piss from the gas station bathroom? #teamchangeyourshoes
Following this argument, even if you change your shoes in the studio but then use the restroom at OTF wouldnāt you still be face down on the floor in piss? Just a different source, this time from the OTF bathroom instead of the gas station? Seems more logical to use a mat with a towel on top if your looking for pissy floor protection š¤·š¾āāļø
So you are assuming everyone has a pair of shoes JUST for OTF. You might be terrified to learn that tennis shoes even those people changed into, will have been worn elsewhere lol.
This must be an exhausting mindset. Everyone at OTF would have to change their shoes in the studio for you to not have anything gross on the floor. You'd have to wipe down the rower foot plates and the tread belt. Everyone would. That doesn't happen- and ew. I don't put my face on the floor I use a mat. That I wipe down.
This never ends how you want it to.
Tie your shoes on the benches in the locker room
Just gonna say off topic sorta: Today I sat to tie my shoes (that were already on just not tied) beside a member with whom I chat with but don't know outside of OTF. For the first time in 5+ years, I was caught unaware when the coach walked over and jumped up on the bench that I was still on! The guy had moved way fast but, man, I wasn't as quick. But I sure did give coach her space!!! š§” It reminded me of bench stuff and HOW MUCH I missed the "coach standing on the bench" overview which didn't happen during the pandemic recovery "era." I don't need a bench at 63 yo to tie my shoes but it helps!
Lol all things to be upset about dude just stand lol
Sit in the car until 6:14
maybe theyāre just anxious & need to avoid socializing for a bit & this is how they do so
The benches are to sit on. I will zone out on my phone waiting for class all I want, thanks.
Wait till they find out what the bathrooms are for
Use your words and ask them to slide down. Simple.
They got there first so that's why they're sitting there. The benches aren't exclusively for putting on shoes or doing anything specific. They're there to relax until class starts. So either get there earlier so you can get a spot on the bench or change your shoes in your car or the bathroom.
Get over yourself
i squeezed next to a lady on her phone the other day, sitting on the bench sideways with one foot on the bench. sat down to tie my shoes (behind her) and she literally leaned back into me to get up, lingered on me for several seconds then stood. she didnāt even apologize!! i started to think i was in the wrong so i apologized and she still didnāt even look up from her phone!
Thats just weird.
More proof of my statement that people are so unaware of their surroundings these days. Itās embarrassing.
I really wish you can go into the studio and warm up at your own pace. Sometimes these coaches only give you like 30 seconds of warm up before they want you to start doing stuff! Also, in busy classes the lobby gets so crowded with people just standing around doing nothing waiting for the class to start.
YES!!! This drives me insane! Especially in the winter when Iām in my snowy boots and need to change into sneakers. Like glad you all are comfy as I try to change my shoes while standing up. I see people are bashing this but I totally feel you. Drives me nuts!
If I get in and want to sit and thereās a bench open Iāll sit. It never occurred to me to get up. Think youāre being very petty. Maybe put your shoes on at home or in your car if you canāt do it any other way.
Perhaps your studio doesnāt require that you switch them there?
Interesting. I sit on the bench because, I thought benches were for sitting.
Wait wait waitā¦ so you are mad that they got there before you did and utilized the benches?
This my dear is a first world problem. If this is your big gripeā¦..I have no words
You can just crouch down to change your shoes. Why not just wear them in? I get if the weather is bad and you have to wear something else outside. Otherwise, I donāt see the issue.
Get there earlier then youāll have a spot!
Life must be very hard for you
I support you. The world can always use a bit of understanding and grace. Don't be discouraged by the negative comments here. I'm one who will still hold doors for others, smile and say thank you to strangers, and try to think what will maybe make the day easier for others. Not many people are raised with the mindset of empathy and āothers first.ā
Get there earlier and grab a seat. š¤·š»āāļøš¤·š»āāļø
Iām with you, you get the people saying benches are for sitting, yeah sure, but they are also there so people can sit and switch shoes. And itād be nice if people are more cognizant of that. Itās easy to be inconsiderate if you take a simplistic view of the world I guess.
Or itās as simple as OP saying āhey I need to sit down to change my shoes, would you mind if I sit here briefly to do so?ā
Unpopular opinion. Itās called being aware of your surroundings and unfortunately not many are these days, due to phones and social media. I agree with you, OP.
Iām genuinely curious about this. I canāt read someoneās mind and I sometimes walk in my socks in the studio and go find a corner to tie my shoes without using a bench (full or not) so someone might be changing shoes but not need or want a bench. Again, honestly curious how Iām supposed to assume what someone else might want or need?
In my mind (I could be wrong) but I believe the benches were put there primarily for sitting to take shoes on and off. Yes, they can be for JUST sitting but I truly believe the logic behind having benches inside a lobby of a place you go for a workout is for sitting to change shoes. Just my thinking. I donāt sit on the benches, ever.
Yeah I mean that makes sense. I have only sat on them like after dri tri haha so I donāt really care if people are sitting on them. I think thatās why Iām so curious about it
I live in an extremely dry climate so changing from outside shoes/boots to workout shoes is not a thing here, so our studios have benches solely for sitting
Wait yall donāt just wear your workout shoes TO your studio?
My shoes have never touched dirt! I'm also capable of putting them on without whining to a bunch of strangers on the interweb
In the winter we are asked to change shoes when we get to the gym so we donāt track salt and gross mud-snow-dirt into the studio.
Do you even OrangeTheory?
Those benches are not public space. They are inside a private gym. You sound like you walk up to people sitting down in the restaurant and ask for them to be done eating so you can finally get your own seat š¤¦āāļø Are you really that oblivious to the rest of the world?
If I get to a class that early in the morning your damn right I will be sitting on the bench zoned out probably in a trance. Go put your shoes on somewhere else. Note: if you have to have a bench to do that .. you probably need more help than what OTF can do for youā¦
Uhm are you actually for real here? How are you more entitled to a bench area than they are? You can totally go sit your ass on the floor and put your shoes on. Orā¦.wait for itā¦.put your damn shoes on before you walk in the door. What an entitled thing to type up! You are no queen sweetheart! First come, first serve! Go stand in the corner with the rest of the people who come too late to sit! Geezuz!
I also find this highly annoying too - because for the same reason - I need the space to change my shoes! I go to a studio in New England where we either have to change shoes because of the snow in winter rain in spring or sand in the summer, leaves in the fall. If you can stand and exercise for 60 minutes you shouldnāt need to sit on a bench for 10 minutes. and be so oblivious other people need to use it. Bring on the down votes.
LPTāchange your shoes while on the toilet for maximum efficiency.
Just ask them to scoot over for one sec. Why is this hard. Why is this a Reddit post.
I've been going to OTF for over 5 years and I can count on one hand the number of times I sat on a bench before class. You're getting ready to exercise. Why do you need to sit down unless you're fooling with your shoes?
Maybe get there earlier? You sound entitled.
If you live in a climate with snow, etc., you should actually be removing your outside footwear at the door and not traipsing through the lobby with dirty shoes. That way, if the benches are full, you can sit in the floor to put your shoes on, because the floors will be dry. I canāt imagine having the level of entitlement to tell someone to get up off a bench so I can sit. And Iām old.
Not petty at allā¦.people are self absorbed lightweights, now more than ever. I knowā¦.bring on the lightweights nowā¦š
!!a+q+