How Planet Fitness' Changing-Room Policy Compares to Other Gyms'
face a conservative boycott, with the gym chain receiving backlash over its changing-room policy.In March, Planet Fitness sparked cancellation calls after it revoked the membership of Patricia Silva, who photographed a fellow gymgoer without her consent.The other member, a trans woman, was shaving in the women's locker room, and Silva complained to Planet Fitness employees about her presence in the room.A representative for Planet Fitness told the press that Silva's actions violated its "judgment-free" rules.Between March 14 and March 19, the fitness firm's market value decreased from $5.3 billion to $4.9 billion, but how does the company's changing-room policy compare to the policies at other major gym chains?For many chains, the rules appear to vary by location.
While one branch may be praised in LGBTQ+ forums for its inclusivity, another may be facing a discrimination lawsuit.Here are some of the most popular gym chains' policies on locker rooms and gender identity.Planet Fitness does not discriminate against transgender individuals, allowing them to use the locker room that corresponds with their gender identity."Members and team members will be treated according to their self-reported gender identity," the policy on the gym's website says.The only exception is if staff have "serious concern or significant doubt about the bona fides of a person's transgender or nonbinary status.""If it is confirmed that a member is acting in bad faith and improperly asserts a gender identity, they may be asked to leave and their membership may be terminated," the policy continues.Gold's Gym's rules on locker rooms and transgender individuals are unclear.The chain's diversity, equity and inclusion page says people of "any color, race, religion and orientation are always welcome," but it does not mention gender identity.The employment section, however, does include gender identity among a list of characteristics, saying, "All qualified applicants will be considered for employment.
