How to Sign "Gym"

To sign gym, form both hands into 'G' handshapes, with your index fingers and thumbs extended and parallel, while your other fingers are curled. Hold both hands up near your shoulders. Move them in small circles or back and forth a couple of times, mimicking the motion of lifting weights.

Examples Using "Gym" in a Sentence

1

I'm going to the gym after work.

To sign this, you would point to yourself, sign 'go', then 'gym' using the 'G' handshapes near your shoulders, and finish with 'after work'.

2

Do you want to go to the gym with me?

Sign 'you want go gym with me?' Make sure to raise your eyebrows and lean forward slightly at the end of the sentence to show it is a yes/no question.

3

The gym is closed today.

Start by signing 'gym' with your 'G' handshapes, then sign 'closed' by bringing both hands together, and finish with the sign for 'today'.

How to Sign "Gym"
To sign gym, form both hands into 'G' handshapes, with your index fingers and thumbs extended and parallel, while your other fingers are curled. Hold both hands up near your shoulders. Move them in small circles or back and forth a couple of times, mimicking the motion of lifting weights.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign is an initialized version of the sign for 'exercise' or 'work out'. It takes the iconic physical motion of lifting weights and incorporates the first letter of the word ('G') to specify the location rather than just the action.
Signing Tips
Make sure to clearly form the 'G' handshapes so the sign is distinct. Keep the movement small, controlled, and synchronized near your upper chest or shoulders, just like you are pressing a barbell.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is using full closed fists ('S' handshapes) instead of 'G' handshapes. While using fists is the correct sign for the action of 'exercising' or 'working out', the specific noun for the location 'gym' requires the initialized 'G' handshape.
Regional Variations
While the initialized 'G' sign is very common, many fluent signers prefer to simply fingerspell G-Y-M. Because it is a very short, three-letter word, fingerspelling it is quick and widely used in the Deaf community.
Examples Using "Gym" in a Sentence
1

I'm going to the gym after work.

To sign this, you would point to yourself, sign 'go', then 'gym' using the 'G' handshapes near your shoulders, and finish with 'after work'.

2

Do you want to go to the gym with me?

Sign 'you want go gym with me?' Make sure to raise your eyebrows and lean forward slightly at the end of the sentence to show it is a yes/no question.

3

The gym is closed today.

Start by signing 'gym' with your 'G' handshapes, then sign 'closed' by bringing both hands together, and finish with the sign for 'today'.

Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'gym' and 'exercise'?

The sign for 'exercise' or 'work out' is made using closed fists ('S' handshapes) moving in the same way. 'Gym' is an initialized sign that uses 'G' handshapes to specify the actual place.

Can I just fingerspell G-Y-M instead of using this sign?

Absolutely! Because 'gym' is only three letters long, fingerspelling it is very common, fast, and completely acceptable in everyday ASL conversation.

Do my hands move together or alternate?

Your hands should move together at the exact same time, either in small circles or a slight back-and-forth motion, mimicking the simultaneous movement of lifting a barbell.

ASL is a beautiful, expressive language. Practice regularly and have fun!