High-end health clubs allegedly conceal an exploitative work culture in Thiruvananthapuram

SHRC rules fitness coaching fell under scheduled employment and minimum wage, and workplace protections should apply

Thiruvananthapuram’s rapidly growing network of upscale health clubs is emerging as a youngster’s mecca for employment.

Hundreds of youth from struggling working-class families with an affinity for bodybuilding are becoming certified physical trainers to cash in on the fitness fad.

Most seem driven by the desire to break free from the fettering grind of a ten-to-five job to pursue their studies and passion for fitness while supplementing the family income.

Nevertheless, Justice Alexander Thomas, chairperson of the State Human Rights Commission (SHRC), recently heard that the stylishly luxurious and upmarket health clubs patronised by the fitness-conscious upper middle class concealed an exploitative work culture.

The petitioner, Johny Vincent, told the SHRC that several gym managers often manipulate trainers into working long hours for low wages. 

He submitted that most health clubs consider fitness coaches part-timers and contract workers, hence unqualified for basic protections such as overtime pay, minimum wages, a provident fund, welfare dole and ESI coverage. 

Sanjith (name changed), a physical trainer, says fitness coaches are disorganised labour lacking a collective voice.