Gym hits back at influencers after introducing strict new rules

A gym in Australia has introduced some strict new rules for influencers.

Doherty's Gym - which has branches in Melbourne and Perth - has recently cracked down on what its members can and can't do in the gym.

And people are not happy about it.

Speaking about code of conduct in his gyms, owner Tony Doherty explained that 'just because someone wants to film every aspect of their life, including their workouts, it doesn’t mean that everyone else wants to be in the movie'.

The businessman explained that there would be a very specific rule change for those who want to film their workouts to post on social media.

Fitness influencers often upload footage of their daily workouts, and many of these are professionally shot with tripods and other equipment.

But if you've ever been at the gym and noticed someone filming, you'll know it can be kind of annoying to try and avoid getting in the shot.

For this reason, the gym has decided to ban tripods.

In fact, those who do want to film their workouts will now need to buy a media pass.

A notice on social media reads: "It is our duty of care to provide safety, protection and privacy for all of our members. Tripods have become a trip hazard and a safety concern.

"From tomorrow, February 1st 2024, filming on tripods will no longer be permitted at Doherty’s Gyms.

"You may obtain a media pass to film content or your workout for your social media. To find out more information you can ask our staff or visit our website.

"If you must take a quick video with your phone while you are training, please be aware of anyone in the background and make sure you have their consent to post or share their image if they are.

"If you do not obtain consent it is an infringement of privacy - please show respect for others."

In a follow-up post, Tony added in the caption: "It seems that tripods have become just as popular as self-importance.

"Just because someone wants to film every aspect of their life, including their workouts, it doesn’t mean that everyone else wants to be in the movie.

"It is our duty of care to provide safety, protection and privacy for all of our members.

"Tripods are a trip hazard and a safety concern. They are an infringement of privacy and respect for others."

And people had pretty mixed views on the ban, with some loving the changes while others demanded a refund for their membership.

One wrote: "How do I get a refund for the rest of my annual pass I purchased before this rule were put in place?"

Another said: "Is this just a way to make an extra couple of bucks by 'purchasing a media pass'? Is it too difficult to just tell off people abusing others privacy while filming?"

Others were more supportive, however, with one commenting: "Game changer decision. Bravo."

And another said: "This is the greatest thing I’ve seen in a long time."

How would you feel about this?