A New Hampshire woman says Planet Fitness canceled her membership after she reported seeing a man in the women’s locker room. Judy Walcott, a longtime member of a Concord, New Hampshire location, told Fox News Digital she felt unsafe after encountering someone she believed was male near the shower area on April 11.
Walcott reported the incident to a front-desk employee, who told her staff could not intervene due to company policy. She claims the employee did not check the locker room while she was present. Four days later, she raised the issue again with another staff member, who allegedly called her 'transphobic' instead of addressing her concerns. Walcott said the employee interrupted her, stating they knew who she meant and described the person as a 'wonderful woman.'
Hours later, the gym’s manager called Walcott to inform her of her membership cancellation for a 'policy violation.' When Walcott asked which policy she violated, the manager did not respond. Walcott later found a 'Member cancellation or freeze form' in her account and noticed she had been charged for another month.
Planet Fitness’ Policy on Locker Rooms
Planet Fitness allows transgender individuals to use facilities corresponding to their gender identity. The company’s 'Judgment Free Zone' policy emphasizes inclusivity, though critics argue it may conflict with some members’ safety concerns. Walcott’s case has sparked debate over balancing inclusivity with privacy and security in shared spaces.
Reactions and Legal Considerations
Walcott has not yet taken legal action but has shared her story publicly. Some advocates argue her concerns were dismissed unfairly, while others defend the gym’s policy as necessary for transgender rights. Legal experts note that businesses have discretion in setting policies, but disputes like this could lead to further scrutiny of gender-inclusive practices in public spaces.