In a controversial move, Planet Fitness has drawn criticism for its response to a recent incident involving a transgender woman in one of its locker rooms. The incident unfolded at a gym in Alaska, where Patricia Silva raised concerns after allegedly encountering a trans woman shaving in the female locker room. Silva reportedly took a photo of the individual and confronted them, insisting they shouldn’t be in the same changing area. In a Facebook video, Silva repeatedly misgendered the person, sparking outrage online. Planet Fitness defended its inclusive policies but revoked Silva’s membership for violating locker room photo rules. Despite Silva’s insistence, the gym emphasized that the discomfort of gym members isn’t a valid reason to deny access. In its statement to the Daily Mail, Planet Fitness said: “As the home of the Judgement Free Zone, Planet Fitness is committed to creating an inclusive environment.” This isn’t the first time Planet Fitness has faced controversy over locker room issues. In 2019, a man threatened violence against a transgender woman in the female changing rooms of Planet Fitness in New Hampshire. Consequently, the trans woman obtained a restraining order against him, prohibiting any contact and requiring him to stay at least 250 feet away from her and the gym premises.
