Aussie gym’s controversial dress code sparks backlash among members: ‘Controlling and overbearing’

A popular gym’s dress code had stoked a fiery online debate – with some confused as to why some sportswear isn’t acceptable but others defending the clothing rules.

Camperdown Fitness, in Sydney’s inner-west, introduced its fashion guidelines that discourage short-shorts, boob tubes, one-shoulder tops and showy muscle singlets earlier this year.

Many members wrote online that the new dress code was ‘overbearing’ with many asking why small clothing details were under such scrutiny.

TV monitors around the gym constantly rotate a series of images showing ‘correct’ and ‘incorrect’ attire for those those exercising.

One customer claimed the unrelenting dress code graphics made them and several others feel uneasy and self-conscious. 

‘I tried to raise how this was making members uncomfortable and that it seemed to be overstepping the mark around what people can and cannot wear,’ they wrote.

‘The staff member was highly dismissive. Told me I was too easily offended and that I should find another gym.’

Some viewers expressed confusion as there appeared to be very little difference between what gymgoers are and aren’t allowed to wear.

Camperdown Fitness came under fire for banning short-shorts, boob tubes, one-shoulder tops and showy muscle singlets

For men, some singlets are given a tick but others with slightly different designs are a no go.

For women, more clothing items are disapproved of including ruched style short with drawstrings that are slightly higher than the standard length.

Singlet tops are given the nod – but only if they go over both shoulders.

While some questions the differences in styles, others were shocked the gym was trying to control people’s clothing at all. 

‘This gym claims to cater to a wide range of athletes, including bodybuilders and powerlifters,’ said one person.

‘But their rules don’t reflect that at all. Instead of creating an inclusive and welcoming environment, they’re fixated on controlling what people wear – even in 2025.’

‘It’s one thing to have a reasonable dress code, but advertising these rules on TVs and plastering them all over the gym walls is downright insane. 

‘Instead of focusing on training and community, it feels like they’re more interested in micromanaging members’ clothing choices.’

The gym insisted its new dress code helped foster its ‘family-friendly’ atmosphere

The gym’s owners, Michael Wood and Paul Vella, said the dress code was created to maintain Camperdown Fitness’ ‘family friendly environment’.

‘Our guidelines require appropriate athletic wear that ensures safety during equipment use and maintains our family-friendly environment serving ages 14+ with an onsite creche,’ Mr Wood told the Daily Telegraph.

Debate over the gym’s dress code has reached outside its customer base with many online viewers claiming the fitness centre was being ‘sexist’. 

‘Sexist and outdated policies dictating what a woman can and cannot wear in the gym. I would suggest you give your staff some training and have a stricter hiring process if a woman’s shoulder is offensive,’ one woman wrote online.

‘Can’t believe we are in 2025 and dictating what women can and cannot wear … even at the gym … Such strange sexist views,’ another said. 

However, there were also commenters who applauded the gym for upholding its family-friendly reputation. 

‘For what it’s worth, I support your new dress code for both men and women, so it’s not sexist or aimed at one gender,’ one man wrote.

‘Gyms are for getting fit, not walking around posing in front of other gym users. It’s a gym. 

‘You’re not there to look good. If you want to look ‘good’, dress up and do it on a Saturday night.’

Members criticised the dress code for unfairly targeting women and being constantly displayed on monitors around the gym

Another said: ‘There is a dress code but only a few items not allowed and I understand why, otherwise it becomes a fashion show. Even bars, planes, buses, trains, restaurants and shops all have set dress codes. 

‘I like that even the clients with amazing bodies keep it modest out of respect for those of us trying to look better.

‘It’s about encouragement about being a better you, setting goals and not a ”look at my latest outfit” type place.’

In response to the complaints about the TV graphics, Mr Wood said: ‘As a community facility, we maintain standards for comfort, hygiene, and safety for all members. We provide friendly reminders when needed.’ 

Daily Mail Australia has contacted Camperdown Fitness for further comment. 

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