So, I'm doing deadlifts at my local globo gym. Inside there is, amazingly, a platform. This is good.
However, directly behind this plat form is one of those Natalus wanna trap bar things. Ya know, with the adjustable handles and the weights that go on the side. Pointless for everything except maybe trying to up your dumbbell shrug. Whatever, do what ya want.
My problem this evening, is I thought there was a code in the gym. The "don't be right behind me when I'm doing some shit because it's weird" code. I had done a few heavy deads and really felt like pulling 365 for 5. So, I address the bar. While doing my lifts, some guy walks to the pretend trap bar, and begins doing deads as well as if to compete with me.
No exaggeration, this piece of equipment puts my ass when I'm at the starting portion of the lift less than two feet away from this guys body. Seriously, just fucking wait a second.
Ya know, a god damned second. It'd be one thing if he looked like he was there to do something. But no, he was a high schooler with friends trying to show off. Six of 'em, just lined up behind my perfectly shaped ass, watching their friend get excited about lifting 90 pounds as many times as I did. Then we made eye contact. He said "what bro." I winked, as if to say "you know you liked what you say." They then proceeded to go to the other side of the gym. I think I just made that kid uncomfortable for life around people covered in chalk.
So, new folks, keep like a yard between you and somebody else if ya can. Don't be so damn close.