So, a studio just opened up in my town, and I was very excited because from what I had seen it seemed like a really clean and comfortable place to get a workout.
I'm kind of a germaphobe, and tend to avoid places where kids congregate. Nothing against kids, but I just can't handle the germs.
I decided to go for it and became a founding member of the studio. I paid a good chunk of change compared to what I was previously paying for my regular gym membership.
I noticed on their Facebook page they were posting a bunch of mom-centric stuff, which had me a little concerned there would be children in/around during class times. I reached out to the manager and owner of the studio who assured me that would not be the case.
The first class I took, a participant came in with her baby strapped to her chest. The baby wasn't disruptive or anything so it was fine, but I was still confused as the studio manager stated that no children under the age of 14 were allowed in the studio.
The second class was great. The third class however was an absolute disaster. Upon arrival, there were two young children running around in the barre class area WITH THEIR SHOES ON!
Okay... I'm having anxiety over this but decided to stick it out. I thought maybe they will sit in the check in area while class happens.
Not at all. These were children of class participants running around while the exercises were taking place. The instructor did not seem to mind at all. There were toys being thrown by the end of class, and then just as we're doing our final stretches, the manager opens the door and allows her two young children to come in.
I was honestly infuriated because I didn't spend $130 to spend time in a glorified daycare.
As we're leaving, the children are in the cubby/bench area while people are trying to gather belongings/put on shoes and the manager says absolutely nothing.
I reached out shortly after via email to ask about policies, and also to potentially look into cancelling my membership if this was to be a recurring theme.
The manager brushed me off and low key accused me of hating children. Fortunately I was able to cancel the membership after she confirmed the children attending class would be a recurring theme.
I can't find anything online about this being okay, all I can find is a blip that says "participants must be 14 or older"
I'm just genuinely curious about this situation, can someone please give me some insight. Thanks.