Has anyone encountered a loyal gym member who smokes before coming to the gym? Ewww… how to tell him he reeks?!
Oh hi Meredith,
I hate answering a question with a question yet why do you believe you need to tell this person? I haven’t met a single person who thinks smoking is healthy. It is a known killer yet people still do it just like how people still use microwaves even though it is a known health hazard.
I understand this member sinks yet it is their vice just like you and I have ours. With that being said tread the waters carefully if you want to bring it up. My clients who smoke I causally mention it. My clients know I don’t support their smoking habits yet they understand I support them. Find out why they smoke. We do everything for a reason. The complement sandwich approach is quite effective also. Applaud that person for their hard work. Also positive psychology is a great tool where you show them their strengths.
All and all one person smells of smoke and another reeks of sweat. They both sink yet at least they’re at a gym doing things that are usually beneficial instead of other places.
+Philip
Hello Meredith Nelson,
I sympathize with you. You could use the fact that third hand smoke is just as dangerous as smoking. I would also use a compliment sandwich. Let this person know that there are sensitive people in the gym who are not able to tolerate the third hand smoke. Your gym is a place of good habits and good examples. I hope these ideas are helpful.
Thank you,
Natalie aka NAPS 2 B Fit.
Oh hi Meredith,
After you last response I understand it is a bigger issue. It sounds like your cardio room is quite small?
The big thing is you can’t take care of all complaints yet if multiple people are complaining then it is an issue. The biggest issue I see is that most smoke cigars as a pleasure smoke. It isn’t like he needs the nicotine just more is in a habit of smoking the cigar to the gym.
I would mention that there have been complaints about the smell considering it is multiple people. All in all some smokers don’t realize how bad they smell because their senses are accustomed to it.
I totally disagree. The issue is the smell. People know that smoking is unhealthy. By using the righting reflex many get offended right away due to that approach.
Behavior change is huge. People aren’t going to change until they internally want to change. Find out what stage of behavior change they’re in. By pushing something on someone will either result with them pushing back, pushing you away, or doing the said behavior, yet not really wanting to do it. I address smoking with my clients and give them ways around it yet it has to come from them. They’re experts in their own lives. I am their coach and support system. Yes I can force them to do things yet if they didn’t make that decision they won’t stick to it. It has to come within.