Bengaluru gym faces backlash over ‘Homophobic’ poster, issues apology after outrage

A poster meant to shame gym-goers for not re-racking weights has landed a Bengaluru-based fitness centre in serious trouble, after social media users accused it of promoting casual homophobia and demanded accountability.

The controversy began after a Reddit user shared an image of a poster spotted inside a gym in HSR Layout. The poster read, “Gays can’t re-rack the weights. Are you?” The post, titled “Blatant homophobia at a gym in HSR. Can’t believe this is real,” quickly gained traction and drew sharp criticism.

The user noted that the poster was displayed at a “very prominent gym” and said that while unracked weights can be frustrating, using the word “gay” as an insult was unacceptable. They added that they were shocked to see such “outright casual homophobia” openly displayed in a public space.

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Reddit Users React Strongly

The post sparked intense debate, with many users calling the language offensive and inappropriate. Some criticised gym owners, with one commenter writing that it reflected how “most gym owners are illiterates.” Another user claimed to have visited the gym for a year and described the trainer as a “total nutcase,” despite praising the variety of equipment.

Several users pointed out the irony of the gym being named Zest Fitness Studio. Others even asked for the gym’s exact location so they could “downvote such establishments,” citing similar online action against restaurants accused of mistreating delivery workers. Some users sarcastically remarked that they would now refuse to re-rack weights, claiming to be gay.

Gym Issues Apology, Removes Poster

Following the backlash, a Reddit user shared a screenshot of an apology allegedly issued by the gym. The message stated that the poster was not intended to hurt or target any community, blamed a creative lapse, and offered a personal apology from the owner and brand. It added that the poster has since been removed.

The episode highlights how public messaging, even within private spaces, can quickly ignite backlash in the digital age, underscoring the growing demand for sensitivity, accountability, and inclusivity.