Is your exercise partner a cell phone?

The awkward looks and stares a person may have received 10 years ago if seen talking on a mobile phone while exercising have changed dramatically. Today, it’s become common to see someone answering a phone call while walking on the treadmill, text messaging a client in between sets or using their phone as an MP3 player.

This has changed the culture of many fitness facilities — and not always for the better. Risk for injury, quality of workout and maintaining a positive workout environment can all suffer at the hands of cell phone users at the gym.

Any distraction to someone exercising, especially while using equipment, can increase the risk of injury for them and anyone around them.

Walking on the treadmill while using one hand to hold the phone, or focusing on reading text messages can keep someone from being aware of what is going on around them, potentially causing a misstep due to a lack of attention to details such as speed and intensity.

The quality of your workout also may decrease if your focus is more on your conversation than on the proper technique of the exercise. Even if using a wireless earpiece to talk, not focusing on proper breathing or body awareness can lead to an ineffective workout.

At most fitness centers there is not an enforced policy about talking on your cell phone while exercising. Loud talking and inappropriate conversations can cause a frustrating environment for other exercisers.

There are instances due to work or family emergencies that the use of a cell phone is necessary. The key is to be courteous, respectful and understanding of the people exercising around you. Keep your calls to a minimum and move to an area away from exercise equipment and other people working out while talking, texting or checking e-mails on your mobile device.

It may be true that exercising with a cell phone is better than not exercising at all. But exercise can also help with stress management in addition to helping you reach your fitness goals. Taking time away from a hectic schedule to exercise without your mobile device can give you just the break you need.

Always consult a physician before beginning an exercise program.