At approximately 60 PureGym locations across New York and New Jersey, a new entry system is causing confusion and concern among members. The gyms, formerly Blink Fitness locations acquired by PureGym about a year ago, now require members to use their smartphones to enter through a narrow, plastic pod-like structure.
This entry system, common in European PureGym locations, is unfamiliar to many American gym-goers. Members must tap their phones to unlock the first door of the pod, step inside, and wait for the second door to open before gaining access to the gym floor. The process is repeated upon exiting.
PureGym's Chief Executive, Clive Chesser, stated that the doors are designed to "ensure only our members can access the gym, and we know who's in the gym at any given time." This system allows for enhanced security and membership verification, according to the company.
However, some members find the new system unsettling. Emily Fish, a 30-year-old tutor and PureGym member in Park Slope, Brooklyn, described the doors as "a surprisingly negative way to enter a space of any kind." She also expressed concern about the possibility of being trapped inside and the reliance on a smartphone for entry. "I would love to come to the gym without my phone, but I can't, because I need it to get in," Fish said.
The implementation of this technology raises questions about the increasing use of automated systems for access control and surveillance. While AI-powered security measures can enhance safety and efficiency, they also introduce potential challenges related to privacy, accessibility, and user experience. The use of smartphone-based entry systems, for example, excludes individuals without smartphones or those who prefer not to rely on them.
Moreover, the reliance on technology can create vulnerabilities. System malfunctions or power outages could disrupt access, potentially causing inconvenience or even safety hazards. The Fire Department has reportedly been summoned to some locations due to issues with the doors.
The transition to the PureGym brand, including the installation of these entry systems, is ongoing. The company has not yet announced any plans to modify the system or address the concerns raised by members. The situation highlights the importance of considering the human impact of technology and ensuring that new systems are user-friendly, accessible, and reliable.
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