Etiquette of a Mosh Pit

There’s more to moshing than jumping about and hitting people over the heads. When you mosh there are rules that always used to be unwritten. But it seems people don’t know them. So here they are.

1. If you’re worried you can’t handle yourself, don’t go into a mosh pit. If it looks too violent for you then take a step back. It’s better to be cautious than break something! And just because you like circle pits, it doesn’t mean your expected to slam.
2. Never pull someone into a mosh. Whether you think they’d enjoy it or not, make it their choice. It’s not cool to pull someone over. I once saw a pregnant woman pulled into a mosh pit. No no no!
3. Don’t mosh into anyone that doesn’t want you to. This makes you an idiot. Maybe someone just came to the gig to, I don’t know, listen to music. And if it’s a member of the opposite sex, they won’t be impressed, believe it or not.
4. For girls in moshs, the assumption is that you can’t take care of yourself. While it’s good that people are looking out for you, it can be annoying if you do want a good mosh. Make it clear you know what you’re doing and you do want to be there.
5. Look out for anyone in trouble. It’s easy to trip or drop something. While you’re moshing you can often be in your own little world, but try not to be too oblivious!
6. Don’t mosh if you’re wearing big spikes or anything that will injure anyone else on contact
7. Pay attention to what’s playing. Most bands will have one key song when it’s guaranteed to all get a bit extreme. For some bands that will be most of them. There’s not much point trying to start a mosh to a power ballad. You’ll look silly!
8. If you do need a hand, don’t be afraid to ask for it. The best of us have skidded on beer or dropped out inhalers / glasses. At most gigs, people will help. If the people you are with won’t help, wave at security. It’s their job to protect you.
9. If there’s a girl in the mosh it doesn’t mean you can grope her. It’s sad I even need to say that, but it happens.
10. Enjoy it! Moshing isn’t about posing. Let’s face it, you’ll come out sweaty and dishevelled. If you’re not enjoying it then step out. If you are, keep going!