In an era where fitness influencers draw followers with inspirational workouts and progress tips, a recent video from gym influencer Sarinha Caus has sparked huge backlash. Caus, known for her edgy content, posted a video of herself in the gym performing an act many are calling highly inappropriate and “disgusting.” In the video, she mounts an Olympic bar mid-set, alluding to sexual innuendo, which has angered both gym regulars and other influencers who believe such behavior crosses the line of gym etiquette.
Leading the outcry is Joey Swole, a popular fitness influencer and advocate for respectful gym behavior, who is appalled by the clip. Known for his efforts to uphold gym etiquette and promote, Swole chastised Caus for what he called “disrespectful behavior.”
Gym owners need to start being more vigilant and kicking people out for this. I had to cover that woman up as she squats down, puts her private parts on a barbell, grabs her legs and then rubs herself on it and all for what.
The response was echoed by the comment section of both Caus’ original post and Swole’s video, with many rightly expressing disgust. Comments on Caus’s Instagram reel reflected the prevailing sentiment, with users declaring, “pathetic video” and “you need to be banned from the gym!” The anger is palpable among fitness enthusiasts, particularly those concerned with how her actions might tarnish the inclusive, respectful space that gyms strive to cultivate.
One particularly scathing comment read, “If a man did anything like this, there would be police involved.” Others, such as “woman like her should be banned in all gyms worldwide,” highlight a belief that this type of attention-seeking behavior undermines the serious training environment many patrons expect. The notion of hygiene also surfaced in the comments, with one user suggesting, “go back to OnlyFans and disinfect that bar,” reflecting the concern that such actions may put public health at risk—especially given the shared equipment many athletes depend on.
The reaction extended beyond Instagram, with Twitter users weighing in on Swole’s response. One user remarked, “this is why gyms need to start banning phones and videos.” Another echoed this sentiment, pointing out that such actions could lead to stricter gym policies as establishments look to avoid these types of scandals.
Whether Caus will address the backlash or continue down this path remains to be seen. Something tells me this was her plan all along.
