The new dress code at Sydney gyms has sparked a divided response: some call it “sexist,” while others point out that similar guidelines exist at restaurants. Sportswear isn’t exactly immune to these conversations either.
Camper Down Fitness, a large gym in Sydney’s Inner West, recently revised its dress code, which has been a hot topic online. This popular gym, attracting a younger audience including 14-year-olds, has rules that some find confronting.
For women, the dress code specifies that shorts must be a few inches longer than what might typically be considered acceptable. Additionally, a sports bra must have two straps, and tube tops and one-shoulder tops are not allowed.
Men, on the other hand, are not permitted to wear tops that reveal too much of their arms or back, as flashy muscles might be considered distracting.
These rules are prominently displayed on screens throughout the gym, complete with examples of what is deemed “appropriate” versus “inappropriate” attire.
The reactions to these new guidelines have been quite intense. Some people describe them as “overwhelming,” claiming the TV monitors add an uncomfortable pressure.
Comments like, “These policies are sexist and outdated; get better hiring practices if shoulders are an issue,” have emerged. Several individuals have even gone as far as canceling their memberships in protest.
Conversely, many gym-goers see no problem with the dress code at all. “It’s their gym, and they can set their rules. Just like a restaurant or a store can,” noted one gym member.
Someone else added, “It’s a rule that applies to everyone. I don’t see how it’s sexist.”
Another user expressed enthusiasm about their next gym session, while someone else pointed out that it’s not a fashion show; it’s meant to be a space for health and lifestyle improvement.
The gym’s owner, Michael Wood, explained that these guidelines have been part of their membership terms since the beginning. They aim to ensure that members wear athletic wear that’s safe for the equipment and maintains an appropriate atmosphere for all members over the age of 14.
Wood mentioned that they had honored cancellation requests from individuals uncomfortable with the guidelines, and warned one non-member about spreading misinformation online.
As a community facility, they strive to balance comfort, hygiene, and safety, offering gentle reminders when required. Members aren’t kicked out just for their clothing choices.
In the midst of the debate, 2GB’s Ben Fordham weighed in, describing the dress code as “confusing.” He questioned whether the gym was imposing arbitrary boundaries around clothing choice.
Fordham argued that the only noticeable difference in some images, especially regarding shorts, might just be body shape. He pointed out inconsistencies in how muscle definition is viewed differently among men wearing similar attire.
It’s worth noting that Camper Down Fitness isn’t the only gym with a dress code. In fact, Caitlin Emiko, who trains at Greenwich Village Athletics in New York, mentioned that their code requires members to wear all-black workout gear to foster a judgment-free environment.
Emiko appreciates this approach, saying it simplifies her morning routine and suggests a cohesive community atmosphere.
According to her, the rules promote an inclusive, distraction-free environment for everyone focused on working out and building connections.
In England, a separate incident involved a member of a gym group being told that wearing UGG boots was “inappropriate.” After confronting the staff regarding the dress code, the member received an email labeling his behavior as aggressive and was informed that his contract had been terminated.
The member later expressed regret over the situation, suggesting the rules were overly harsh and pointed out the absurdity in comparing UGG boots to other footwear often seen in gyms.
