For many female-presenting individuals, a trip to the gym means keeping their guard up to fend off unwanted gazes. Clothes were never the issue; instead, we need reformed gym policies that protect every person from the sexist judgment that fuels stigma around gymwear.
When someone has to take preventative measures to protect themselves from uncomfortable glances and unnecessary comments, the gym is no longer a safe haven for mental shelter and self-improvement. Female-presenting individuals must be wary of their surroundings because they are unsure of how others will react to their body. For example, Planet Fitness’ dress code prohibits string tank tops to “maintain no gymtimidation” in the environment. LA Fitness prohibits clothes that are excessively frayed or “revealing.”
Said gyms may be asserting these policies with good intent, but implying that certain attire is provocative in itself reinforces sexist expectations that all female-presenting individuals seek attention through their dress. So even as most people dress to exercise in comfortable clothing, such restrictive policies have conditioned society to label certain clothing as “inappropriate”— a label that is not often applied outside of the gym setting.
As cat-calls and whistles progress to unprompted approaches, lurking and following, female-presenting individuals are forced to shift the focus of workout sessions from personal growth to the threat of harassment.
Contrary to the mainstream assumption that those who wear less revealing clothing don’t experience forms of verbal or harassment, a U.S. survey conducted by RunRepeat found that 56.7% of women, regardless of their attire, have experienced forms of sexual harassment and that 92.31% of this behavior toward women goes unreported to authorities. Furthermore, one in 10 female gym members have encountered unwanted physical contact while one in four have received unwanted attention.
Some influencers have prompted global dialogue about the issue by sharing personal testimonies on social media. OnTikTok, London-based influencer Natalee Barnett opened up about her gym experience.
“It really does throw you off, especially given what the gym is about. You go there to focus and put your head down,” Barnett said in a Twitter video. “It’s all about bringing women together in a safer environment. And I always say that women-only gyms are not an agenda against men.”
To create a safer gym environment, everyone must help hold facilities accountable and raise awareness about harmful gym policies. While large fitness chains have yet to create women-only gyms, small facilities have emerged to prioritize safety.
From installing security cameras monitored by other female staff to reserving a secluded area for female-identifying individuals, there are myriad ways to better uphold safety.
So, if you’re a teenager who dreams of beginning your fitness journey, remember that every time harassment is dismissed—not reported—is an act of self-censorship for the safety of all gym members. Forcing anyone to sacrifice their comfort out of fear is a reality we will not dwell in.