A major Australian gym franchise has banned tripods in response to a popular social media trend where “fitness influencers” film workouts for online fame.
Doherty’s Gyms, with locations in Victoria and Perth, announced new restrictions on tripods inside their facilities on Jan. 31.
Instead, gym-goers must purchase a “media pass” to film content or their workout during off-peak hours.
Owner Tony Doherty, who regularly shares gym etiquette videos on social media, said tripods have become increasingly prevalent.
“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,” he said.
Workouts can still be filmed with a standalone phone, but Mr. Doherty emphasised strict rules when doing so.
He stated that those who “must” record a workout video with their phone should be aware of people in the background and get consent before posting or sharing their images.
“If you do not obtain consent, it is an infringement of privacy—please show respect for others,” he said.
“Better still, put your phone down and get on with training.”
He mentioned it’s about ensuring safety, protection, and privacy for all members, noting tripods pose safety risks.
It comes as the social media trend has resulted in tempers flaring in some instances.
Coach Ben Carpenter recalled a moment when he almost witnessed a fight.
“I have legitimately seen a fight nearly break out because someone aggressively squared up to a friend of mine who accidentally walked through their video without realising it,” he said in a recent social media post.
“No joke, the guy got so aggressive the staff had to kick him out.”
However, the gym’s ban has stirred a heated online debate, with people expressing support and opposition.
One member threatened to cancel their membership.
“Seriously considering cancelling my membership ... This is becoming a Nazi gym. Too many rules enforced too harshly,” they said.
“Need to send your coach a video of your form? No worries, just purchase a media pass and train during the day while you’re supposed to be at work,” another added.
Yet, some were fed up with people treating the gym like a rental studio without paying for one.
“I hope other gyms follow suit; if a photographer wants to use a studio, they pay to hire one or build one. Essentially, these people are using a gym as a studio and not paying to hire or build one,” one member said.
Meanwhile, rival gyms have seized on the opportunity to promote their more flexible tripod rules.
Apex Gym in Melbourne’s Coburg North, just a 15-minute drive from Doherty’s, told its members that tripods were welcome, and that they even provided them.
“Just so everyone knows, tripods are welcome at Apex Strength,” the gym wrote on Facebook.
Several other gyms have rules in place, although they might not always enforce them.
PureGym’s website requests members not to take photos or videos without permission, and Fitness First advises members to seek prior permission from everyone appearing in any footage.
Virgin Active can request members to show the images taken if concerns arise, and may ask them to delete the images if appropriate.
