Life Time, a gym chain with 130 locations across 27 states, has made the controversial decision to ban cable news from the flat-screen televisions in its facilities. The move, which applies to all cable news networks regardless of political leaning, is intended to create a more positive and family-oriented atmosphere for exercisers.
Flat-screen TVs have become a staple in gyms throughout the United States, typically featuring sports highlights and cable news programming. However, Life Time has determined that cable news can negatively impact the mindset and workout experience of its members.
Natalie Bushaw, a Life Time spokeswoman, explained in an email to The New York Times that the decision was “based on many member requests received over time across the country, and in keeping with our overall healthy way of life philosophy and commitment to provide family-oriented environments free of polarizing or politically charged content.”
Bushaw emphasized that this issue has been growing over years, not just weeks or months, and that the change aligns with the desires of the overall membership.
The cable news ban has elicited mixed reactions from Life Time members. Supporters of the policy agree that removing cable news from the spotlight will improve people’s moods, given the largely negative and divisive nature of the content. They believe that the change will contribute to a more positive and uplifting gym experience.
On the other hand, opponents of the ban argue that Life Time is unfairly censoring content and depriving members of a source of information they find valuable and important. They view the decision as an unnecessary limitation on their access to news and current events while exercising.
Despite the controversy, Life Time remains committed to its decision, believing that the cable news ban is consistent with its overall philosophy of promoting a healthy way of life. The gym chain will continue to televise local news programming, ensuring that members still have access to relevant information without the potentially polarizing content of cable news networks.
