Corporate Workouts - Treadmill Chatting with the Boss

Dear Annette,

Our company subsidizes memberships to a gym in our building. Everybody goes here, and I often find myself working out next to senior people in the company. How do I handle this?

Out of Breath



Dear Out of Breath,

I'm sure you realize you can glisten with perspiration and good manners at the same time. I myself do not exercise - I have People to do that for me - but nobody knows better than I do that sweat can be fabulous. It can also make the most casual situations more complicated than they appear.

When working out with colleagues, you want to show you're a team player who appreciates the subtlest nuances of social interaction. Call it Executive Judgment if you will, but it starts by bringing the right workout gear. As an arbiter of style, I know all too well that fitness disasters usually begin at home.

Be sure you bring a clean outfit that fits well, and pack the right shoes. Old tops with mysterious stains, shorts that disclose too much information, and ensembles that scream "look at me!" undermine understatement.

It won't be a good idea to ask the boss to share her water bottle or hand towel, so bring your own - the one that doesn't say Nascar, unless you're on the circuit.

Know your club's policies for equipment use, and follow them. Battling other members in public for treadmills or steppers doesn't say much for your interpersonal skills. No matter how enthusiastic you are, don't corner all the free weights or refuse to let others use a weight machine when you're resting between sets.

Arrive on time for your exercise class with whatever equipment you need ready. In the case of my dog Dickie, that would mean sticks and rubber balls. At least one member of his doggie play group is guaranteed to be prepared.

Smile through the pain, and those around you will know they can count on you not just in the gym, but in the boardroom or cubicle as well. Reinforce your reputation as a team player, and you may even be able to turn your panache into cash during bonus season.

If you're feeling awkward about the close quarters, just keep a towel at hand (don't snap it at anyone), and chat pleasantly and briefly if required. Clean up after yourself, hog neither the shower nor the mirror, and you'll be in great shape to discuss business once you're dressed and in the office.

Workout do's and don'ts

Stay fabulous,
Annette