Concerns mount as Lagos gyms turn hotspots for hookups

Although fitness centers offer devotees a place to enhance their physical health and well-being, there are worries that these facilities could turn into hotspots for amorous meetings. Nigeria has become a nation enamored with exercise culture.

Some gym patrons told the News Agency of Nigeria in separate interviews on Saturday in Lagos that the fitness culture had developed into something more than a place to work out.

According to Mr. Folarin Adekoya, a gym-goer from the state's Ikeja neighborhood, some enthusiasts appear more interested in interacting with others and posting pictures to social media than working out.

It raises concerns about the reasons behind the provocative and revealing gym attire that some ladies are observed sporting.

However, the clothes isn't the only item making waves. These places are used by some gym patrons to hook up with romantic partners.

According to Adekoya, "I've seen women wearing very revealing gym attire; it can be distracting, especially when you're trying to focus on your workout."

Additionally, Jason Onwuka, a frequent gym-goer in the Festac region of the state, offered his thoughts on the changing equilibrium between maintaining one's fitness, diversions, and the increasing impact of social media.

"I find that I am more inspired to work out at the gym, so I prefer to go there, but I have witnessed others gathering there who are obviously not there to work out.

There will always be diversions in whatever you undertake. It is up to you whether or not you let distractions interfere with your training if you arrive at the gym with a certain goal in mind.

He also noticed that the professional women who frequent the gym are not dressed provocatively and are more intent on their workouts.

"They work out easily in comfortable tights or leggings," he remarked.

Teddy A, a former Big Brother Naija contestant, recently offered his thoughts on the subject of inappropriate gym attire.

Teddy A voiced his disapproval of the trend in a video that was shared on his social media page, emphasizing the value of covering delicate body parts when working out.

He stated, "We don't want them to start banning girls from the gym because of indecent dressing," without intending to be offensive.

On social media, Teddy A's remarks provoked a contentious discussion. While some felt that gyms need to impose more stringent clothing requirements, others thought it was an overreaction.

An anonymous manager at a well-known fitness facility in the state's Ajah region told NAN that they have had to establish guidelines for proper attire and conduct at the gym.

"We wish to establish a friendly and courteous atmosphere for each and every one of our members. However, the tendency is not slowing down in spite of the management's attempts.

"As long as they're not interfering with someone else's workout, I don't see the harm," he said, adding that people use the gym to socialize and have fun.