Women-Only Gym Faces Backlash Over Policy Change, Refunds Offered

Natalee Barnett, a well-known fitness influencer and gym owner, recently shared a major update about her upcoming gym, The Girls Spot, set to open in Wandsworth, South London. She announced that the facility would be exclusively for “biological women,” sparking intense online debate.

The change in policy surprised many, especially since Barnett had previously stated that her gym would welcome trans women. In a 2021 tweet, she wrote, “If you have a problem with trans women attending my gym, then you can find another place to train.” This statement built expectations for an inclusive fitness space, making the recent shift a point of contention.

Why Barnett Created The Girls Spot

Barnett’s motivation to open a women-only gym stems from a personal experience. At 18, she was assaulted while working out, which left her determined to create a space where women could feel secure. Her goal was to focus on strength training rather than weight loss, as she found many women’s fitness areas to be inadequate, with limited weights and too many cardio machines.

Instagram | nataleebarnett | Driven by her assault and a desire for better strength training options, Barnett established a women-only gym.

Reports highlight the concerns that fueled her decision. Between 2018 and 2022, the Met Police recorded 331 cases of rape and sexual harassment in London gyms. Additionally, a 2023 survey revealed that over half of women feel unsafe or intimidated while exercising. However, only 7% of these incidents were reported to authorities.

Barnett’s vision resonated with many, leading her to launch a crowdfunding campaign. Through GoFundMe, she raised £22,900 from supporters. With 2.5 million Instagram followers, she kept her audience updated on the gym’s progress, sharing videos of its development.

The Policy Change and Public Reaction

In a recent viral video, Barnett explained why she had revised her stance. She stated, “When I made that post in 2021, I hadn’t fully mapped out the mission for The Girls Spot. Over time, I realized the gym’s core purpose is to offer a safe environment for women facing gym harassment and violence—including myself.”

Her clarification didn’t sit well with some donors, who accused her of misleading them. Many said they contributed to the fundraiser believing the gym would be inclusive of trans women. Social media users called for refunds, arguing they wouldn’t have donated if they had known about the restrictive policy.

In response, Barnett defended her decision. “I spent a lot of time and money, including seeking legal advice, before making this choice. It wasn’t about exclusion but about ensuring a space where women recovering from trauma can feel comfortable,” she wrote on Instagram. She also mentioned that the gym would offer self-defense classes and events related to women’s health, such as PCOS and menstruation, suggesting these topics wouldn’t align with a mixed-membership model.

Debate Over Exclusion and Safety

Barnett’s policy change has drawn criticism from various groups. Some argue that safe spaces should include trans women, given the discrimination they face in fitness environments. A social media user noted, “Cisgender women often seek safety in queer spaces, but they hesitate to extend the same openness in return.”

Instagram | youtube | Barnett’s policy change regarding safe spaces is under fire for not including trans women, raising questions about fairness.

Supporters, on the other hand, defend Barnett’s right to create a space specifically for biological women. “If trans women want a gym, they should start their own,” one person commented on X.

Public figures have also weighed in. Author JK Rowling supported Barnett’s stance, posting on X, “Men who claim to pose no risk to women threaten violence if they aren’t allowed in their gym.”

Others question how Barnett plans to enforce her policy. Broadcaster and trans rights activist India Willoughby asked, “Will there be underwear checks for members who ‘look trans’?” Critics argue that the policy raises ethical and legal concerns, making it difficult to implement fairly.

Moving Forward

Barnett acknowledged the controversy, stating, “The internet can be ruthless. My goal was simply to create a safe fitness space for women, yet I’ve become a target for a much broader debate.”

She also addressed financial concerns, revealing that only 89 public donations—totaling £1,190—came from outside her personal network. She personally invested £50,000 to bring The Girls Spot to life. Still, she promised to refund donors who no longer wish to support the project.

Despite the backlash, Barnett remains committed to her gym’s new vision. The Girls Spot is set to open later this year, staying true to its revised mission.