DEAR ERIC: I use the exercise room in my apartment. So does a neighbor who has a body odor so strong that when he is there – or has been there in the previous few hours – I open the window, turn on the fan, prop the door open and wear a mask. There is no staff to complain to. I feel that saying something to him would be crossing a line. Help!
– Workout Woes
DEAR WORKOUT: Although a conversation is the most direct route, it might be uncomfortable and could create a tense situation for you in the building. Because the space has no oversight, take the reins by posting a community note on the door or in the room that acknowledges the gym is a stuffy space and requests that everyone air the gym out during workouts and practices community-minded hygiene. (Think of the signs at pools that instruct swimmers to shower beforehand). Now, this depends on a level of self-awareness that your neighbor may not possess. But, short of talking to him, your next best bet is reminding him – and everyone else – that this is a shared space.
(Send questions to R. Eric Thomas at eric@askingeric.com or P.O. Box 22474, Philadelphia, PA 19110. Follow him on Instagram and sign up for his weekly newsletter at rericthomas.com.)
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