Australian gym owner takes a swipe at social media stars, bans a familiar tool

Tony Doherty, the owner of a gym in Brunswick, Australia, is making waves in the fitness community with his stringent ‘gym etiquette’ rules. The aim is to create a safe and welcoming environment for all gym-goers. The rules include common-sense practices such as returning weights to their racks, refraining from excessive noise during workouts, and maintaining personal hygiene.

However, it’s Doherty’s fourth rule that has stirred up a storm on social media, especially among influencers. In a recent Instagram video, Doherty addresses the rising use of tripods in the gym, stating, “It seems that more and more people want to bring the tripod along to the gym, set up a little studio to record their workout, whether it be because they want to be an influencer or they want to check their form or send it off to their coach.”

Doherty argues that the influx of tripods is not only a trip hazard but also disruptive to others trying to train. He highlights concerns about privacy, mentioning that some individuals use the gym as a safe space due to personal circumstances, such as having a domestic violence order against an ex.

Taking a firm stand, Doherty has banned the use of tripods in his gym, allowing exceptions only for those who book a media pass and schedule filming during off-peak hours. He urges gym-goers to be mindful of others in the background if recording with a phone and obtain consent before sharing images.

In a caption accompanying the video, Doherty concludes, “Better still, put your phone down and get on with training. This may not be popular with the tripod crew, but everyone else will appreciate not having to deal with them.”

The move has sparked discussions on social media, with opinions divided between those supporting privacy concerns and others challenging the restrictions. As the fitness world grapples with the evolving dynamics of social media influence, Doherty’s rules are set to reshape the gym landscape.