Allahabad HC Raises Concerns Over Male Gym Trainers Imparting Training To Women

The Allahabad High Court has expressed concern over male gym trainers providing training to women without proper safeguards to protect their safety and dignity.

These observations came from Justice Shekhar Kumar Yadav while hearing an appeal filed by a gym trainer from Meerut, accused of using a caste-based slur against a woman client.

Case Background

The matter stems from allegations made by a female gym member during proceedings before the trial court. She claimed that the accused not only abused her but had also prepared obscene videos of another woman who attended the same gym and shared such content with her.

Taking note of these accusations, the High Court remarked that the alleged actions could also attract offences under Sections 354 (assault or use of criminal force to outrage the modesty of a woman) and 504 (intentional insult with intent to provoke breach of peace) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).

The court, in its order dated August 27, scheduled the next hearing for September 8.

Court’s Observation

Against the backdrop of these allegations, the court issued a strong observation, stating:
“It is a matter of serious concern that presently male gym trainers are imparting training to female clients without adequate safeguards to ensure their safety and dignity.”

This remark highlights broader concerns about the lack of institutional checks and protective measures in fitness centers, particularly for women who often rely on trainers for close and personal guidance during workouts.

Justice Yadav further directed the investigating officer of Meerut’s Brahmpuri police station to submit a personal affidavit clarifying several key issues:

Whether the gym run by the appellant was legally registered.
Whether the accused had been arrested in connection with the case.
Whether the gym employed female trainers.
These directions aim to establish the legal standing of the gym and assess the availability of safeguards for women clients.

Larger Implications

The case has brought into focus the urgent need for gyms and fitness centers to adopt stricter measures to ensure women’s safety. The High Court’s observations underscore the importance of regulation, accountability, and gender-sensitive policies in spaces where women interact closely with trainers.