Feeling at home shouldn’t mean letting your guard down at the gym.
For many Victorians, the gym is more than just a place to exercise. It’s a place to unwind, connect with others and focus on their wellbeing. But the sense of familiarity that makes gyms welcoming can also create opportunities for opportunistic theft.
A few simple habits can help reduce your risk of becoming a victim:
- Leave expensive jewellery, large amounts of cash and unnecessary bank cards at home.
- If your gym doesn’t have lockers, think carefully about what you bring with you.
- If you’re leaving anything in your vehicle, place it in the boot before arriving at the gym so you’re not seen storing valuables after you’ve parked.
- Keep your phone, wallet and keys secure at all times.
- Report suspicious behaviour to gym staff as soon as possible.
Dr Xanthe Weston, criminologist at CQUniversity, said opportunistic theft can occur in and around gyms because people are often distracted by their workouts and assume their belongings are safe.
“Members leave bags, phones, wallets and keys unattended while they’re exercising, and the high volume of people coming and going can make it easier for offenders to blend in unnoticed,” Dr Weston said.
She said predictable routines could also make gym-goers more vulnerable.
“Many people visit at the same time each day and leave their belongings in the same place, making them easier targets for someone looking for an opportunity.”
While understanding the risks is important, creating a supportive and welcoming gym culture also plays a role in preventing theft.
For Blake West, Master Trainer at Body Fit Training Ringwood, helping members feel comfortable and supported is an important part of the gym experience.
“For some people, it’s the most important part of their day,” Mr West said.
“It’s a chance to get away from other stresses in their lives, work on themselves and feel that connection to the community.
“You want people to feel safe in an environment that’s so important to them.”
Mr West said gym staff also played an important role in encouraging members to speak up if something didn’t seem right.
“If someone notices suspicious behaviour or something doesn’t feel right, we’d always encourage them to come and speak with us so we can look into it.”
He also encouraged members to secure their vehicles and avoid leaving belongings outside.
“If you’re leaving something outside or not locking your car, that’s when opportunities for theft can arise,” he said.
Gyms should be places where people can focus on improving their health, connecting with others and feeling part of a community. By taking a few simple precautions and reporting suspicious behaviour, members and staff can help keep them safe.
If you have information about theft or suspicious activity, you can report it anonymously to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.