Hi, I was wondering what is the protocol for asking for a spot. I find myself wanting to go higher in weights at times, but no one to spot me. Is there an etiquette for asking for a spot? I don't want to interrupt someone else's workout, which is why I've been hesitant to ask for help. Thank you.
Location: Philly on one side, Pittsburgh on another, the Green Between...
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Just ask, "Hey man, can you spot me?" It's a common gym ettiquette thing. It helps to tell them what you are trying to do too. "I am going for 8 reps on this, but may need help on the last one."
Fish brings up a great point about telling them what you want to do. The converse is also true: when I am asked for a spot, I usually ask:
-what they are trying to get to
-how much help do they want (i.e. at failure, just before it to complete a rep)
-if it is appropriate where they want the spot - i.e. at the bar or on their body.
-if they want light touch at the spotting area in case of catastrophic failure (don't ask this is they are trying for 4 reps or less - then it's automatic)
And I tell them where I am going to be spotting them.
It's amazing how many people who ask for a spot DON'T volunteer this information.
Well, not most of us. 
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