FitGym Donates Joining Fees After Online Review Sparks Gym Dress Code Debate
Wānaka’s FitGym announced it will donate all $59 sign-up fees collected between November 2 and December 15 to Central Lakes Family Services following an online review that criticized gym members for wearing skin-tight underwear and dressing like they worked in a strip club, according to reports by RNZ and 1News. Co-owner Bianca Simpson stated that the business chose to turn the negative feedback into a positive contribution rather than tolerate such commentary.
Online Review Criticizes Gym Attire and Sign-Up Fees
The controversy began when FitGym received a Google Maps review describing its $59 sign-up fee as excessive and claiming that women in the facility dressed inappropriately. The reviewer stated that it was completely unnecessary and distracting for members to walk around in skin-tight underwear, according to 1News and RNZ reporting. Simpson told RNZ that receiving such feedback in 2026 was shocking, noting that the small, growing community prides itself on maintaining an inclusive environment.
🟠🟡Severe Weather Warnings & Watches 🟠🟡Heavy Rain and Strong Wind Warnings and Watches have been updated as an active front is moving up the South Island today and the North Island during Tuesday.Check the details 👉 https://t.co/HZ2TSD5rV7 pic.twitter.com/vBstj5saiK
Connection to Shane Gillis Saturday Night Live Monologue
The online altercation follows a broader public discussion sparked by American comedian Shane Gillis during a monologue on the television show Saturday Night Live, where he remarked that women in gyms dressed like sex workers, as reported by RNZ and 1News. Simpson noted that her team felt an immediate need to push back against the local review to defend their members and uphold their safe-space policy.
FitGym Responds to the Controversy
In its official response to the review online, FitGym stated that it is proud to offer a safe space where individuals can wear what makes them comfortable during workouts. The gym’s public reply emphasized that management will not regulate the length of shorts or sports bras, but will actively address behavior that makes members feel uncomfortable for simply existing. Simpson told 1News and RNZ that numerous women have thanked the staff for standing up for gym members everywhere.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is FitGym doing with the disputed fees?
FitGym is donating all $59 joining fees collected between November 2 and December 15 to Central Lakes Family Services, as reported by RNZ and 1News.
🟠🟡Severe Weather Warnings & Watches🟡🟠Heavy Rain and Strong Wind watches and warnings have been updated ahead of an upcoming active front.Severe gale winds are expected in exposed areas over the eastern and southern South Island, and in Wellington.Periods of heavy rain… pic.twitter.com/ZpVOEkaF4L
What dress code does FitGym officially require?
According to co-owner Bianca Simpson, the facility maintains a basic dress code that simply requires shoes and shirts to be worn at all times.
What organization is receiving the donated funds?
Central Lakes Family Services is the recipient of the donated joining fees, according to reporting by RNZ.
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