Q: You’re in the gym locker room, and someone is trying to chat with you, but that person is naked. You’re uncomfortable. How do you escape the conversation?

A: The locker room is one of those places where many people feel ill at ease. It’s important for well-intentioned chatterboxes to be mindful that not everyone is OK speaking with someone in the buff.

For those who are caught in this situation, acknowledge the person who initiates the conversation from a standing position rather than a seated one. This will make it far easier to establish direct eye contact.

There are enough perfectly valid reasons for needing to bolt before or after a workout, so you could say something like, “I’d better get to the spin studio before all the bikes are gone” or “Excuse me while I get a protein shake.”

It is entirely appropriate to keep such conversations brief — at least until actual briefs make an appearance.

— Thomas P. Farley, “Mister Manners” etiquette expert

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A: Modern manners in the gym locker room include acknowledging and following social boundaries. However, naked adults attempting face-to-face conversations are overstepping these boundaries.

When addressing the talker, look at his eyes, forehead or nose. End the conversation in a polite way that leaves no room for more talking.

— Sharon Schweitzer, international etiquette expert

Social Graces is a weekly series asking two experts for advice on awkward situations.

chrjohnson@tronc.com

Twitter @christenadot_