Keep some attention in the room
Music can make a familiar visit more pleasant, but headphones also change what you notice. Before turning them on, learn the gym's announcements and emergency arrangements. Ask whether headphones are permitted in the area or class you will use. A group instructor may need you to hear directions throughout a session.
Choose a volume and mode that allow you to remain aware of the surroundings. If you cannot hear someone speaking next to you, adjust the setup or remove the headphones when sharing equipment. A transparency feature is not a substitute for paying attention, and its behaviour can change with the fit or background noise.
Pause audio when asking for an equipment demonstration. Trying to follow unfamiliar instructions through music creates unnecessary repetition. Put the headphones away if they keep slipping or require adjustment while you are handling equipment; you can sort out their fit when your hands are free.
Loose cables can trail into moving parts or catch on handles. Keep any cable managed according to the equipment and headphone instructions, or leave the audio out if you cannot do so. Do not place a phone on a moving machine simply to keep it close to a short lead.
When someone approaches, give them a chance to ask a question before returning to your audio. They may want to know whether a bench is free or need to pass behind you. A brief exchange usually takes less time than repeated attempts to attract attention.
Store earbuds in their case rather than leaving them on a seat, where they can be lost during cleaning. If one falls near moving equipment, stop and ask staff for help instead of reaching underneath. Headphones are optional equipment. A visit without them can also be useful when you are learning the room or attending at a busier time than usual.