Weight training and passive agressive men

[cantmovewont]

Hi

I've been weight training for over 6 years now. I recently took an extended break after covid and have just recently restarted - same gym I've been training in for the last 3 years.

I am having issues with men (regulars) who have never bothered me before now mansplaining/telling me to finish with the weights I'm using or getting in my space and generally making me feel uncomfortable. I don't know why it has started happening. I used to get so much from my gym workouts and now I'm dreading going. I think I should think about changing gyms, but friends and family are telling me - a normally resilient and strong person - not to let them win. Win what? I go in, put my music on and don't engage with anyone.

I don't understand WHY this is happening and I'm not sure how to deal with it. Any advice would be gratefully received.

Interesting. I haven't had any of these issues. I would say the opposite - the men at my three gyms have been encouraging, helpful and boundaried, if anything. Some are now friends or at least occasional workout buddies/classmates. I've been very lucky.

The rest thing is tricky - I. used to lift heavy and now do calisthenics. Some of my rests are 4.5 mins, tho I am perfectly fine with someone jumping in between sets, as long as we make the clock work when I am doing sets that require that. At the gym I train at now, that is not unusual - sets with long rests and most people (it is mainly men) are very polite and sensible about swapping in and out/letting each other know when they will finish.