The Girls Spot Faces Controversy Over Transgender Policy in Women’s-Only Gym
The Girls Spot, a women-only gym set to open in Wandsworth, London, is encountering criticism after its owner revised the gym’s policy regarding the inclusion of transgender women.
About The Girls Spot
Natalee Barnett, a 25-year-old fitness influencer from the UK, is excited to open The Girls Spot this spring. Since announcing her plans in 2021, she has actively campaigned for the gym, including launching a GoFundMe campaign which raised over 22,000 euros by March 2025.
Original Commitment to Inclusivity
During the campaign, Barnett expressed her commitment to inclusivity via social media, stating, “Respectfully, if you have a problem with trans women attending my gym then you can find another gym to train at. Trans women are women and also a minority that need to be protected.” This tweet resonated with many and received significant support at the time.
Shift in Stance
However, on March 9, 2025, Barnett reversed her position and announced that The Girls Spot would no longer welcome transgender women. In a now-viral video, she explained, “When I made that tweet in 2021, I hadn’t thought through the vision and mission of what it would entail. The Girls Spot Gym exists as a safe space for women who are facing harassment, sexual assault, and violence in gyms — and I know this personally.” Her new vision aims to create a space focused on self-defense, Muay Thai, and fitness tailored to women’s unique needs.
Clarifying the Mission
Barnett stated that the gym will function as a single-sex space for biological women, emphasizing the need for women to feel secure and empowered. “While I believe everyone deserves a safe space, it is imperative that I stick to this vision to ensure these women feel protected,” she noted.
Community Reaction
The announcement has sparked debates on social media, with over 39,000 likes on her video on Twitter/X. However, many users expressed disappointment and frustration. One comment on Instagram warned, “Denying trans women access to a women’s-only space could lead to serious legal repercussions.” Others criticized Barnett for her about-face in policy after previously welcoming trans women into the gym.
Responses and Backlash
Another comment highlighted the logistical issues of excluding trans women, questioning, “What happens when muscular women who don’t fit the traditional notion of femininity want to join?”
In response to the backlash, Barnett reiterated her decision on Twitter/X, stressing that it was not an easy choice but one she deeply contemplated over the years. “My hope is that every woman, both cis and trans, finds a space where they can feel secure, strong, and empowered,” she stated.
Calls for Accountability
The community’s response remains mixed, with several comments urging Barnett to reimburse those who supported her funding efforts. “You lied,” asserted one detractor, emphasizing the necessity for transparency and integrity in her actions.
Moving Forward
Despite the controversy, Barnett shared a post praising her video, asserting that she is not being transphobic, but rather advocating for the experiences and struggles faced by women. The discussion surrounding The Girls Spot continues to evolve as many voices weigh in on the importance of inclusivity versus the need for safe spaces for all women.
