UK gym banned trans man from using men’s changing rooms
A British transgender man has spoken out after he was ordered to stop using the men’s changing rooms at his local gym.
Plymouth local Ali Ramezan, who began his transition three years ago, had attended the city’s Bodylines Gym for many years – and says he never encountered any problems with his use of the facilities.
However, this month he says he was asked to use the female changing rooms due to customer complaints.
He told the Plymouth Herald: “I was told that people at the gym had been complaining about me using the men’s changing rooms and shower, and was told that because I have breasts and a vagina I could only use the female facilities.”
After being told that he was unable to use the changing facilities that match his gender, Mr Ramezan was “gutted”.
Before his transition he had “experienced trying to live as a woman but it was a constant battle”.
Bodylines claims that the gym was reacting to complaints from customers and that their behaviour towards Mr Ramezan was not discriminatory.
Mr Ramezan has since cancelled his gym membership to go elsewhere, adding: “This is the first time I’ve experienced transphobic behaviour from a business.”
“I can’t believe that in this day and age transgender and transsexuals face discrimination from others.”
“I want people to be aware that this is still going on.”
John Kerel of Bodylines Gym said: “I have known Ali all his life and gave him help and support.
“I have always taken care of him in the gym.”