Summary
Single gender health clubs have existed across the United States for decades. In recent years, the legality of these clubs has been challenged in court, based on claims that they violate anti-discrimination laws.
IHRSA's Position
IHRSA believes that health clubs should be allowed to operate single-sex facilities, as there is a legitimate gender-based privacy interest entitled to protection under the law. Furthermore, there is no overriding public policy that necessitates the inclusion of a particular gender in a health club setting.
Outlook
Several states now specifically allow for single-gender health clubs. These include: Alaska, Colorado, Hawaii, Illinois, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Tennessee, and Wisconsin. In addition, a Pennsylvania court found that one club's women-only policy did not violate the state's anti-discrimination law.
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What can you do?
 Read IHRSA's Women-Only Health Clubs Briefing Paper
Ask your state legislator(s) to introduce a bill to specifically exempt bona fide health clubs from gender discrimination laws.
In the News
(11/8/05): Curves leads women's fitness charge
News from CBI
The following links are to relative articles from Club Business International (CBI).
CBI Interview: John Gennaro of Cuts (May 2005)
CBI Interview: Mark Harrington of Healthworks (June 2004)
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