Gym divides customers after introducing new rules for influencers wanting to record their workouts

A gym has divided customers after introducing new rules for influencers who want to record their workout within their facility.

Now, "gym-fluencing" has seen a massive boom over the past few years as more and more people are hitting the gym in order to keep themselves fit and healthy - and use their workouts to gain followers on social media.

For a lot of beginners - and even avid gym goers - recording a workout can be a great way of keeping track of their form and technique.

However, as helpful as it can be, it hasn't come without its troubles.

A gym company in Australia has banned people from recording vlogs while they're working out. Credit: AzmanJaka/Getty

Not only has there been a rise in awkward interactions between gymgoers, but the number of heated exchanges occurring in front of cameras due to them just being there has left the entire internet debating whether recording should be allowed in gyms or not.

Now, in an effort to combat this, one Australian gym company decided to introduce a set of new house rules that addressed this growing concern.

Dohertys Gym, which has facilities located in Melbourne and Perth, introduced a new rule that means gym-goers will have to apply for a "media pass" if they want to use any filming equipment in their branches.

Taking to Instagram, the gym has said that from February 1, filming on tripods will "no longer be permitted" due to safety concerns.

"It is our duty of care to provide safety protection and privacy for all our members. Tripods have become a trip hazard and a safety concern," the post read.

And let's just say, it managed to ignite a heated debate in the comments.

"Is this just a way to make an extra couple of bucks by 'purchasing a media pass"' Is it too difficult to just tell off people abusing others privacy while filming?" one user questioned, while another added: "Well it looks like I’m banned."

A third also joked: "Need to send your coach a video of your form? No worries, just purchase a media pass and train during the day while you’re supposed to be at work."

One person even asked for a refund there and then, writing: "How do I get a refund for the rest of my annual pass I purchased before this rule were put in place?"

However, others were totally on board with the new rule.

"I hope other gyms follow suit, if a photographer wants to use a studio they pay to hire one or build one. Essentially these people are using a gym as a studio and not paying to hire or build one," this user commented.

And this Instagrammer was also glad, commenting: You are a Legend. About time someone with balls did this. It’s an OH&S issue and disrespectful to other members. Thanks Dohertys!"

Another branded it a "good move."

Speaking of the issue, Tony Doherty, the owner of the gyms said: "If you must take a quick video with your phone while you are training, please be aware of anyone in the background and make sure you have their consent to post or share their image if they are."

"Better still, put your phone down and get on with training," he continued in the video. "This may not be popular with the tripod crew, but everyone else will appreciate not having to deal with them."

What do you think?

Featured Image Credit: Imaginima/Getty