I went to join a gym it a franchise meaning they have gyms all over the usa. They told me I was to big, and could not join because I would cause to much wear and tair on their machines. They said because of my weight I could not join. Is this legal? They all said I would be a distraction and would offend other customers. They told me if I were to loose 150 pounds, They would be more then happy to give me a membership.
2007-10-07 15:33:29 · 10 answers · asked by Anonymous in Health ➔ Diet & Fitness
I am not saying this to be mean. But they are a business and they have every right to protect their investment. If a machine were to break they would have to pay to have it fixed or replaced. So I do not feel they are doing anything illegal. Weight loss is hard to do. Maybe you could start out walking in the mall or school. I know many town offer indoor walking. I wish you the best of luck. But getting a lawyer at this point would do you no good.
2007-10-09 13:11:01 · answer #1 · answered by vault 5 · 2⤊ 0⤋
You might be able to argue you were discriminated against as a disabled American, but they can certainly restrict your use of the machines for safety reasons. I'm curious -- as a formerly thin person, how did you allow yourself to get in the condition you're in? What did you do when you were 20 lbs over weight? 50 lbs? 100 lbs? I honestly can't figure out why someone would just keep eating more and more, and not, at least, try to maintain his weight.
2007-10-07 15:44:47 · answer #2 · answered by Stephen L 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I'm pretty sure that is not legal, and is discrimination. You should call up a lawyer just to see if they can answer that question for you. You have a right to make yourself healthier, just as anyone at any weight. Don't let this discourage you from joining another gym. Good luck.
2007-10-07 15:41:50 · answer #3 · answered by freepaidmoney 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
umm that doesint sound right i would definatly look into that. IF you want to loose weight i did weight watchers a while back it is a good plan. Anyways you should be able to go to the gym, people go there to loose weight and get in shape. I am really sorry that happened i know it had to hurt and congradulations on deciding to make some changes because i know that can be hard to. Dont give up. Good luck!!!
2007-10-07 15:39:50 · answer #4 · answered by SaChiE 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Well, yes, it is legal.
If the gym was a public gym, run by the state, it would be illegal, but a private business can offer or refuse membership to anyone that they do or do not want.
Moreover, being large does not give you protected status. That issue has been argued before in cases of employment discrimination and was struck down.
2007-10-07 15:39:11 · answer #5 · answered by scubalady01 5 · 1⤊ 1⤋
Some machines have a weigh restriction on them (usually not over 100kg). But definitely not ALL the machines have a low weight restriction!
Please don't let this discourage you.
(hugs)
2007-10-07 15:40:18 · answer #6 · answered by hope 1 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Im sorry but I would get that in writing and contact an attorney. They cant turn you away for anything like that... that I know of... and honestly you have to start some where... I wish u luck on your path to weightloss.. Where was this anyway?
2007-10-07 15:38:37 · answer #7 · answered by Megan Michelle 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Who knows? I know Michigan has laws that protect obese people from discrimination. Ask a lawyer.
2007-10-07 16:41:43 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Sounds like discrimination to me. I'd talk to a lawyer and find out.
2007-10-07 15:37:28 · answer #9 · answered by KatieK 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
i dont think its legal
2007-10-07 15:45:16 · answer #10 · answered by Michelle P 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋