How Planet Fitness's Changing Room Policy Compares To Other Gyms
The latest business to be targeted by a conservative boycott is Planet Fitness, a gym club that has drawn criticism for its changing-room practices. After Patricia Silva’s membership was canceled in March due to her unapproved photos of another gym patron, Planet Fitness received several cancellation requests. 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. Silva’s actions were in violation of Planet Fitness’ “judgment-free” policies, a spokesperson for the company informed reporters. How does the fitness company’s changing-room policy compare to other large 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
