Let’s be honest: few places reveal the quirks of modern life quite like the gym changing room. It’s where post-work stress meets pre-workout adrenaline. Where the quietly confident fold their socks just so, and the flustered fumble with padlocks while trying to find their moisturiser. It’s private, but shared. Routine, but oddly revealing.
And, whether you’re in and out in eight minutes or carefully laying out your skincare like a still-life, your changing room behaviour might say more about you than you think. Here are just a few of the personalities you may have spotted on the bench. Do these ring any bells?
The in-and-outer
They’re in, they’re changed, they’re gone. No faffing, no fluffing, no loitering. This person knows their routine down to the second: where they like to stand, how long they need to dry off, which corner plug always works.
Personality type: Precise, efficient and goal-oriented. Probably manages a team in real life and owns at least one charging dock. Weekends are for hiking, not lie-ins.
The spreader
Belongings here, there and everywhere. One towel on the bench, trainers in the middle of the walkway, toiletries stretched across the entire vanity. They’ll apologise as they rearrange it all, but not before you’ve stepped on a shampoo bottle twice.
Personality type: Seeking control but not always finding it. Probably very tidy at home, funnily enough. Overthinker. Big fan of lists.
The full routine-er
Essential oils, facial mist, a jade roller that lives in a chilled pouch… this changing room is their self-care sanctuary and they’re not rushing a thing. The steam room was just the opening act.
Personality type: Grounded. Finds calm in ritual. Probably journals. Has a skincare shelf that could stock a boutique.
The chat captain
Walks in talking, walks out with three new best friends. Asks where you got your gym top, tells you where they’re off to next, and offers advice on protein shakes, back pain and Bali, whether you asked or not.
Personality type: Extrovert with a therapist’s soul. Big heart, bigger stories. Keeps group chats alive. Needs silent time, but rarely gets it.
The flamingo
Stands on one leg while getting dressed, towel-draped like a Roman statue, never using the bench. Changes socks without sitting down and somehow never drops a thing.
Personality type: Independent and self-sufficient. Loathes clutter. Possibly a yoga regular. Owns a capsule wardrobe and knows how to pack a carry-on like a pro.
The quiet drifter
You may not have noticed them arrive — or leave. Moves soundlessly from locker to shower and back, usually with noise-cancelling headphones and a neutral-toned tote. Not one for eye contact. Not unfriendly, just… serene.
Personality type: Reflective, considered. Loves routines, hates being rushed. Reads before bed, probably knows their screen time stats by heart.
So, who are you?
The truth is, most of us are a mix. In-and-outer on Monday morning, full routine-er by Friday. The spreader when we’re flustered, the quiet drifter when we’re recharging. Our changing room habits don’t define us, but they do offer a window into how we move through the world.
And the best bit? Whatever your style, there’s room for it in the changing room.
Just maybe… try not to leave your shampoo in the middle of the floor.
Find a club
