‘This is stupid’: Naked sauna sign at Calgary gym causes stir among members

A sign posted inside a Calgary gym telling members they must be completely nude to access the facility’s sauna recently raised some eyebrows and caused a stir online.

Labelled as ‘Sauna Rules’, the sign was apparently put up by a rogue staff member at the Gold’s Gym location along Country Hills Blvd NE, near the Calgary airport.

It reads “no clothes, no shoes, no exceptions…if you’re not naked, you’re not coming in.”

Online reaction from the poster has had a varied response, including drawing ire from some who questioned whether the gym had the right to make such a rule about mandatory nudity in the sauna.

“I can understand outside clothes and shoes, but flip-flops and swimsuits should be allowed,” reads one social media comment.

CityNews spoke to members of the gym on Thursday who had differing views on the so-called ‘Sauna Rules.’

“No, I won’t be a part of this,” said one person. “This is so hilarious and so stupid.”

“If you feel safe you can do it, but they don’t have a right to put that,” said another.

Another said they didn’t think it was a big deal.

“I’m not offended. I think it’s pretty normal.”

A statement from the locally owned and operated Gold’s Gym location to CityNews claims the poster was put up by an outgoing staff member without management’s approval.

“After an internal review, we can confirm that the poster was not created or approved by any member of our management team,” reads the statement. “Security footage confirms that the poster was placed without authorization by a former team member on their final day of employment.”

The gym says the situation was noticed by their onsite team and the sign was immediately removed.

For their part, Alberta Health Services say they do not directly regulate nudity in private businesses, unless it poses a public health risk.

In this case, the government health agency says an inspector will be following up with the gym “to reinforce the requirement that patrons use towels when seated in the sauna to reduce the risk of contamination and ensure compliance with hygiene standards.”

The gym acknowledges member’s concerns and say they apologize for any confusion or discomfort.