A Sydney gym’s new dress code has sparked mixed reactions from the public. Some people say the rules are sexist, while others argue that gyms, like restaurants, have the right to set dress standards.
Camperdown Fitness, located in Sydney’s Inner West, is one of the city’s largest gyms. It welcomes members aged 14 and older. Recently, the gym updated its dress code, which has caused heated debate online.
For women, the new rules specify that shorts must extend a few inches below the buttocks. Sports bras are required to have two straps, which means boobtubes and one-shoulder tops are not allowed.
For men, tops must cover more of the arms and back, meaning sleeveless muscle singlets are discouraged.
These dress code rules are displayed on screens throughout the gym. The screens show examples of what clothing is allowed and what is not.
The changes have drawn strong opinions. Some people describe the rules as “overbearing.” Others say the TV monitors make them feel “uncomfortable.”
One critic wrote, “Sexist and outdated policies dictate what a woman can and cannot wear in the gym. If a woman’s shoulder is offensive, the gym should improve staff training and hiring.”
Some members have even canceled their gym memberships because of the dress code.
However, many people support the rules. They say the gym has the right to set its own standards.
One supporter said, “It’s their business, so it’s their choice. Stores and restaurants do the same when choosing customers.”
Another added, “It looks like a dress code for both men and women. It’s not sexist and it’s normal for a business to have these rules.”
One person wrote, “I’m looking forward to my next gym session.”
Another commented, “This is not a fashion show. The gym should be about health and lifestyle, not clothing debates. The dress code is reasonable.”
Michael Wood, who owns Camperdown Fitness with Paul Vella, spoke to news.com.au about the controversy. He said the dress code has been part of the membership terms since the gym opened.
“Our guidelines require appropriate athletic wear for safety while using equipment,” Wood said. “We also want to keep the gym family-friendly since we serve people aged 14 and above, and we have a crèche on site.”
Wood said the gym honored two membership cancellations from people who did not agree with the dress code. He also said one non-member was banned for spreading false information about the gym online.
“As a community facility, we maintain standards for comfort, hygiene, and safety,” Wood explained. “We give friendly reminders about the rules when needed. We do not remove members or cancel memberships based solely on clothing.”
Radio host Ben Fordham from 2GB joined the discussion, calling the dress code “confusing.”
He asked, “Are these respectful boundaries or clothing censorship? You be the judge.”
