I recently got back into my morning gym routine after a two-month break. I go to the gym in my apartment complex around 6 a.m. every day. To get there, I usually walk through a hallway that’s usually being cleaned at that time. It takes about 20-30 steps to walk through the hallway.

Before my hiatus, there were two male cleaners on duty who didn’t mind me passing through. I’d always hug the wall, walk carefully, and say “good morning” as I passed. They were friendly and never seemed bothered.

Since I’ve returned, there are now two female cleaners working that shift. I still do the same thing: hug the wall, walk carefully, say “good morning” or “sorry,” but they usually just stare at me and sigh as I pass by. It feels tense, like I’m doing something wrong just by being there.

The floor typically dries within five minutes, and this hallway is by far the most direct route to the gym. There is another way, but it adds about five extra minutes to my walk, which isn’t ideal when I’m on a tight schedule.

Given the new reaction I’m getting, AITAH for continuing to walk through that hallway? Or should I just suck it up and take the long way around to avoid bothering them?

Edit: I'll be going the longer way from now on if I plan on going to the gym at this time. Don't want to make enemies of the apartment staff.