A 36-year-old woman has caused a stir after revealing her gym has started banning women over the age of 24 from working out during peak hours.
She shared her story on the popular UK-based forum Mumsnet, where women often seek advice on various topics related to women and parenting.
In her post titled “Am I being unreasonable to think this is unfair?”, she explained that she recently received a text from her gym about a new policy.
She shared a screenshot of the message, which said that the gym would be “reserved exclusively for females aged 12 to 24” from “4pm to 7pm” Monday to Friday.
“This update has been made in response to feedback and to better cater to our younger female members who require a dedicated, comfortable space during peak after-school and early evening hours,” the text continued.
“Please note that outside of these hours, our Ladies Gym will continue to be available for all female members as usual.
“We appreciate your understanding and support as we continue to improve the experience for all our members.”
The original poster (OP) mentioned that one of her main reasons for joining the gym was because it offered “ladies hours” from 9am to 7am on weekdays.
She then said she would cancel her membership because it no longer fits her schedule, asking the forum, “But this is ridiculous, right?”
Most commenters said the OP was justified in feeling outraged by the new policy, with 93 per cent voting that the gym was being unreasonable.
“That’s absolutely ridiculous! Why women of a certain age!? I’d feel furious, OP,” one person responded.
“That’s wild,” another echoed, as someone else admitted, “Once a week, fine. One hour a day (outside of peak times), fine. Three hours every weekday is mental. I’d cancel, too”.
Others called it “wild,” while a different user said they would understand if it was strictly for school-aged children, but including those up to 24, who would be in university, feels “strange”.
Meanwhile, others were confused about the rationale behind the decision.
“I wonder if they’re trying to attract the influencer-type crowd for some free marketing,” one wrote.
“I suspect there is some insufferable person in charge who wants a young, hip and happening vibe, so isn’t bothered about losing boring old middle-aged women,” suggested another.
“Is it because that age group can’t exercise at the same time as men without being hit on?” someone else asked.
But another member replied pointing out, “But they’re not being hit on by 25+ women, I’m sure.”
However, a few said they understood the logic behind the decision and that businesses have every right to change their policies however they see fit.
“Not ridiculous at all,” one person said.
“Teenage girls collectively are a group highly at risk of stopping exercise. There’s a purpose in providing a space just for them, just as there is a purpose in women-only gym sessions in the first place. If the gym managers think there’s a workable business case for making it work, good luck to them. If it doesn’t, then they’ll go bust.”
