Asking for Spotting Help
A gym-goer needs help spotting for a heavy lift and approaches someone nearby to ask for assistance.
Dialogue
Listen and follow along with the conversation
Vocabulary
Essential words and phrases from the dialogue
spot
In gym contexts, to 'spot' someone means to stand nearby and help if they can't complete a lift safely, like preventing a weight from falling.
bench press
A popular weightlifting exercise where you lie on a bench and push a barbell up from your chest to build upper body strength.
reps
Short for 'repetitions'; it means the number of times you repeat an exercise movement in one set, like doing 10 reps of push-ups.
set
In workouts, a 'set' is a group of repetitions done one after another, followed by a rest, such as three sets of 10 reps.
unrack
To 'unrack' a barbell means to lift it off the rack or supports at the start of a lift, often with help for safety.
lift-off
In weightlifting, 'lift-off' refers to the initial help given to start the lift by lifting the bar slightly off the rack.
struggle
To have difficulty completing something, like struggling with a heavy weight during an exercise, often needing assistance.
Key Sentences
Important phrases to remember and practice
Excuse me, I hope you don't mind me asking, but would you be able to spot me for a set of bench press?
This is a polite way to ask for help in a gym. It uses 'Excuse me' to get attention, 'I hope you don't mind' to be courteous, and a conditional 'would you be able to' to make the request indirect and respectful. Useful for starting conversations with strangers.
Sure, no problem at all! How many reps are you planning to do?
A friendly agreement to help, followed by a question to clarify. 'Sure, no problem' shows enthusiasm, and 'planning to do' uses future intention. Great for responding positively and seeking details in casual talks.
I'm aiming for 6 reps. It's my last set and it's pretty heavy for me.
Explains goals and context. 'Aiming for' means targeting a goal, 'last set' refers to the final group of reps, and 'pretty heavy' is informal for 'quite difficult'. Helpful for describing workout plans.
Just let me know when you're ready. Do you want me to help you unrack it, or just be ready to assist if you struggle?
Offers specific help options. 'Let me know' is a common phrase for communication, and the question uses 'or' to provide choices. The present continuous 'you're ready' and conditional 'if you struggle' show preparedness. Useful for clarifying assistance.
If you could give me a lift-off, that would be great. And then just be there in case I can't get it up.
Makes a specific request politely. 'If you could' softens the ask, 'that would be great' expresses appreciation, and 'in case' means 'if needed'. 'Get it up' is gym slang for lifting the weight. Ideal for requesting targeted help.
Can do. I'll be right behind you. Just make sure you communicate if you need help.
Confirms action and gives advice. 'Can do' means 'I can do that', 'right behind you' means close by for support, and 'make sure' emphasizes importance. Useful for reassuring and reminding about safety in teamwork.
Will do. Thanks again, I really appreciate it!
Agrees to follow instructions. 'Will do' is a casual way to say 'I will', and 'I really appreciate it' shows strong gratitude. Perfect for ending exchanges positively and building rapport.
Anytime! Good luck with the set.
Offers ongoing help and encouragement. 'Anytime' means 'you're welcome anytime', and 'good luck' wishes success. A common closing phrase in supportive conversations like gym interactions.