Leave your short shorts and cut-offs at home: Etiquette at the rec

DKS Editors

Sleeveless shirts at the Student Recreation and Wellness Center are a nice addition to the dress code; we just hope it doesn’t get out of hand.

In a scandalous decision from the Student Recreation and Wellness Center, gym-goers are now permitted to wear sleeveless shirts while visiting the facility. As if there weren’t enough issues with short shorts and spandex, now we have to watch out for bra straps and cut offs too?

Just kidding. Kind of. The sleeveless rule is a much-needed amendment in the comfort and heat categories, and we really do see the benefit in giving more workout-wear options. Our worries for this new instatement aren’t about whether it’s inappropriate or not to show your shoulders, it’s about all those potential rec users who will take this rule and run with it. So excuse us for sounding old fashioned, but some issues need to be addressed.

Ladies: being allowed to wear sleeveless shirts doesn’t give you the green light to expose your bras and/or cleavage while at the gym. Some people might find that enjoyable, but it’s not something everyone wants to see. If you’re trying to snag a date at the rec, do your hair and makeup, but please, keep your dress PG.

Guys: the infamous Jersey Shore cut-offs have made an appearance around campus and we know there’s nothing we can do about it. But remember this: cut-offs at the rec aren’t allowed. It’s a sanitation issue, and that attire shouldn’t leave the house anyway.

All jokes and lecturing aside, consider the basics. If you’re going to wear sleeveless shirts, contemplate a bit of modesty for everyone around you. Also, think of the sweat factor. More skin means more sweat left on machines and weights. Be considerate and sanitize your equipment when you’ve finished with it.

Being proud of your body is great; we just hope you remember you’re in a gym that 23,000 students and around 2,000 faculty and community members share. So enjoy the new sleeveless option—just with a dose of consideration for the person exercising next to you.

The above editorial is the consensus opinion of the Daily Kent Stater editorial board.