‘Absolutely ridiculous’: UK gym under fire for banning women over 24 during peak hours

The news was met with strong disapproval online. A poll on Mumsnet revealed that 93 per cent of respondents agreed with the frustrated member.

A gym in the UK found itself at the centre of controversy after enforcing a policy that restricts access to its "Ladies Gym" during peak hours exclusively to women aged 12 to 24. The decision, in effect from Monday 30 June 2025, prohibits women over 24 from working out between 4 pm and 7 pm, Monday to Friday.

A member recounted the change on Mumsnet, explaining that she had chosen the gym because it offered a women-only space from 9 am to 7 pm on weekdays, without any age restrictions. After receiving notification of the new rule, she decided to cancel her membership, deeming the policy faulty.

“I joined a gym a few months ago and one of the main points for me was that it’s female only from 9‑7 weekdays. I’ve just had this email from them and I’ll be cancelling as it no longer fits in with the times I can go, but this is ridiculous.”

In an email to members, the gym stated: “We are writing to inform you of an upcoming change to our Ladies Gym sessions. Starting from Monday 30th June 2025, the gym will be reserved exclusively for females aged 12 to 24 years during the following times: Monday to Friday, 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM. This update has been made in response to feedback and to better cater to our younger female members who require a dedicated, comfortable space during peak after school and early evening hours. Please note that outside of these hours, our Ladies Gym will continue to be available for all female members as usual.”

The news was met with strong disapproval online. A poll on Mumsnet revealed that 93 per cent of respondents agreed with the frustrated member, asserting: “You are NOT being unreasonable.”

Among the many comments were the following: “That’s absolutely ridiculous! Why women of a certain age!? I’d feel furious.”

“So a woman over 24 can’t go to the gym straight after work any more? They’ll lose business, surely.”

“I’d like the idea of women only time. I’m sure it’s popular, but genuinely, the age thing is madness. I’m sure many women will also be cancelling.”

“That really makes no sense at all. Especially as that’s a prime slot of time.”

“That’s wild—once a week, fine. One hour a day (outside of peak times), fine. Three hours every weekday is mental. I’d cancel too.”

Only one person voiced a different view, suggesting that the policy might be well-intentioned: “Teenage girls often stop working out because they feel uncomfortable or judged. Giving them their own time to exercise could help them feel safe and confident. Just like women-only hours exist for a reason, this age-specific time also has a good purpose.”