Can I high-five or hug teammates of the opposite gender?
Mostly no, if you follow the majority view. Most scholars say Muslims should avoid physical contact such as handshakes, high-fives and hugs with people of the opposite gender who are not close relatives, so the team hug after a win is best skipped. Some scholars are more lenient about brief handshakes when there is no desire. Either way, you can celebrate warmly without touching.
What most scholars say
Aisha, may Allah be pleased with her, described how the Prophet ﷺ took the pledge of loyalty from women: "The Messenger of Allah never touched a woman with his hand. He would only take a vow from her" (Sahih Muslim 1866). Most scholars of the four schools understand from this that touching a non-mahram person of the opposite gender is not permitted, apart from necessity.
A high-five is quick and friendly, but it is still touching. A hug involves much closer contact. So the same ruling applies, and the more physical the gesture, the clearer the advice. Some scholars allow a brief handshake when there is no desire and refusing would cause real harm or offence, but most still advise against it. See Can I still shake hands with the opposite sex as a Muslim?
High-fives and hugs with teammates of your own gender are fine.
Ways to celebrate without touching
- A big smile and a "Great goal!" or "Well played!"
- A wave, a thumbs up or a nod.
- Placing your right hand over your heart as a sign of respect.
- Clapping in the air, or clapping for the whole team.
- Standing in the group circle for the cheer without holding hands.
Explain it before the season
Surprise is what causes awkward moments. Speak to your coach and captain early, privately and calmly. You could say:
- "I'm Muslim, and for religious reasons I don't touch people of the opposite gender. It isn't personal. I'm really happy to celebrate in other ways."
Most teams are understanding, especially when you explain it to everyone in the same way and stay friendly. For more on playing with mixed teams, see Can I still play on a mixed sports team as a Muslim?
In the moment
- If someone goes in for a hug: step back gently, put your hand on your heart and smile. A short "Sorry, I don't hug, but well done!" is enough.
- If contact happens by accident in the game, such as a tackle or a collision, there is no sin. It is not intended.
- Treat everyone the same. Do it with all teammates of the opposite gender, so no one feels singled out.
- Coaches and referees: the same applies. See What do I do if a coach of the opposite sex wants to shake hands?
- Most scholars advise avoiding handshakes, high-fives and hugs with non-mahram people of the opposite gender.
- The Prophet ﷺ never touched a woman's hand when taking the pledge.
- Smile, wave, nod or hand on heart instead.
- Explain it to your team early and kindly.
People also ask
Can I pray in a locker room or changing room?
Yes, usually. You can pray in a locker room or changing room if the spot is clean, dry and away from showers and toilets, but a quiet studio is better.
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Usually yes, with care. Many scholars allow joining a gym with a bar or cafe that sells alcohol if you take no part in it and keep away from the drinking.
Read the full answer →Can I go to the gym while in janabah?
Yes, you can go to the gym while in janabah. It only stops prayer, so take ghusl before the next prayer time ends, ideally before you leave home.
Read the full answer →Can I give CPR to a person of the opposite gender?
Yes. Saving a life overrides the usual limits on touching the opposite gender, so give CPR without hesitation. Keep dignity, and train on mannequins.
Read the full answer →Can I do dhikr while running or lifting?
Yes, you can do dhikr while running or lifting. It needs no wudu, and short phrases like SubhanAllah or La hawla wa la quwwata illa billah suit exercise.
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