In an incident that has caused controversy within the fitness community, a male bodybuilder was seen aggressively confronting a woman for using a cable that he believed belonged to him.
The bodybuilder had been using the cable for some time, but had left it unattended for about ten minutes while he went off to perform other exercises.
Returning to the cable, he discovered that the woman had started using it and demanded she cease and desist from using the equipment.
He insisted that the cable belonged to him, noting that he’d left his water bottle nearby.
Many gym-goers are well aware that it is common practice to share equipment when not in active use.
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The woman did not immediately comply with the man’s demands, instead finishing her set on the cable.
This seemed to enrage the bodybuilder, who then demanded that she change the handle on her cable back to what he had been using.
When the woman refused, the bodybuilder went into a fit of rage, throwing the handle to the floor in frustration.
Bodybuilder Joey Swoll has taken action to eliminate toxic behaviors in the gym as a result of this experience.
He has spoken out against gym bullies and advocated for more respectful, inclusive gym etiquette.
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Swoll responded to the cable incident in a video statement, criticizing bodybuilder’s behavior for claiming ownership over equipment just because he had left his water bottle nearby.
Swoll stressed the significance of sharing equipment and showing respect to others in the gym.
He noted that it’s common practice to let others use equipment when it’s not being actively used, and there should be no excuse for intimidating or confronting others over equipment usage.
He called for a more supportive and inclusive gym atmosphere, where everyone feels valued and accepted.
Joey agreed that the man was in the wrong, as in a public gym if you leave equipment for 10 minutes without use by another person, you do not have any right to claim it back.
Your water bottle must not be left at an equipment and claimed at will.
In a public gym, it’s not appropriate for this man to act this way. He may do better training alone at home where he has all of his own equipment and is more private.