<i>On one hand the going to the gym example is not a perfect analogy - the gym is a public place, and being accosted by some random person asking for help could be off-putting.</i><p>Except the culture of gyms, at least among most people to spend a lot of times at gyms and take fitness seriously, is to be helpful and charitable to others.   Almost everybody I know who does any weight-lifting or anything related is always more than happy to help a n00b out <i>if they have time</i>.<p>Refusing to help someone if you&#x27;re literally too busy is one thing.  But a blanket attitude of &quot;I&#x27;m not here to help you, ever, under any circumstances&quot; is a pretty dick&#x27;ish position by the standards of many gym regulars.  Of course it&#x27;s your <i>right</i> to refuse anybody you want...