i go to the gym regularly(3-5 times per week) and yes like many gyms, at the gym i attend there are many many HB's. at the counter, the shake bar, the cardio machines, and of course around the weights. what i have recently discovered is that when i wear my ipod i tend to get in a zone and don't have any contact with anyone i am surrounded by. now i seem to lift somewhat better with music in my ears, however i just started leaving my ipod in my locker and am slowly getting more interactive with those around me. so my tip is this; when u are at the gym, if you can live without music give it a try and see that you will be more likely to talk that HB you've been wanting to.