At the gym, the guy who managed to get my name, screamed hello out to me from nearly across the gym. I knew this would turn into a problem.

Your gym experiences always validate my decision to purchase my home equipment. Thank you!

That’s a lack of confidence. Shout hello back, and then go on to the rowing machine like a king.

You could've waved at buddy then walk up to him and tell him to tone it down

That's what ear buds are for!!

What do you do at the gym? Weights? Aerobics?

Most people who go to a gym don't realize that most other people who go there, don't go there to socialize. My only advice for next time is to excuse yourself from his conversation and indicate to him that you need to stay focused on your workout and that you really don't feel like shooting the shittt with him at the moment, maybe later, but not now.