At first glance, Equinox gyms might seem like a temple to fitness and luxury: eucalyptus towels, spotless locker rooms, and indulgent Le Labo toiletries.
But behind the fogged glass of the steam rooms, some members reveal a different kind of activity.
Steam Rooms as Social Hubs
Equinox’s steam rooms, especially in high-profile locations like Hudson Yards and Williamsburg, have reportedly become hotspots for sexual encounters.
A 34-year-old member, speaking anonymously, described the activities as ranging from oral sex to full intercourse—but noted that kissing was usually avoided.
The exchange of glances and subtle towel adjustments are reportedly part of an unspoken language signaling interest.
A 42-year-old regular at the Brooklyn branch confirmed that the small size of the steam rooms often drives members to the showers for private interactions.
While some encounters happen openly, others are clandestine, hidden beneath the mist and warmth.
A Legacy of Exclusive Spaces
Equinox has always cultivated an aura of opulence, with single-club memberships starting at $250 a month, and flagship locations like Hudson Yards charging up to $450.
The gym’s luxurious appeal, combined with city anonymity, may partly explain why these spaces attract such behavior.
Interestingly, these steam room interactions are part of a broader historical context.
Gay and bisexual men have long used communal baths and saunas for connection, dating back to early 20th-century bathhouses.
Over time, these venues evolved from public gathering spaces to discreet sites for intimate encounters.
Policies vs. Reality
Equinox officially maintains a zero-tolerance policy toward sexual activity in gyms.
Their guidelines on steam room etiquette stress respect, prohibiting phones, grooming products, or inappropriate conduct.
Violations can result in immediate membership termination.
Yet, lawsuits suggest that reality does not always align with policy.
A 2018 case in New York alleged that Equinox allowed sexual misconduct, harassment, and indecent exposure in its steam rooms while benefiting from the notoriety in advertising campaigns. Equinox has denied wrongdoing.
Member Experiences: From Curiosity to Caution
For many, the first exposure to this culture is surprising.
Connecticut-based influencer Anthony Festa described his initial encounters as overwhelming at locations like Rockefeller Center, compared to more subdued experiences in Connecticut gyms.
Some members encounter advances from married men or others discreetly signaling their interest, making navigation of these spaces tricky.
Impact and Consequences
The steamy reputation of Equinox locations can create tension between members, and risks lawsuits and negative publicity for the chain.
It also raises questions about how gyms manage privacy, consent, and conduct in communal spaces.
What’s Next?
Equinox may continue enforcing rules strictly, but member behavior often defies regulations.
Legal cases like the 2018 lawsuit could set precedents for how gyms are held accountable for activity in communal areas.
Meanwhile, online forums and apps continue to discuss locations with active steam room cultures, keeping the phenomenon alive.
Summary
Equinox gyms offer luxury and exclusivity, but steam rooms have developed a reputation as spots for sexual encounters among members.
While the chain enforces strict conduct rules, historical precedents, city anonymity, and member behavior keep the activity ongoing.
Legal challenges and public scrutiny ensure that this dual narrative of fitness and clandestine liaisons remains a complex issue.
Bulleted Takeaways
- Steam rooms in Equinox gyms have reportedly become hubs for sexual encounters among members.
- Signals like eye contact and towel adjustments are used to indicate interest.
- Memberships range from $250–$450 per month depending on location.
- Equinox enforces zero-tolerance rules, but multiple lawsuits suggest enforcement challenges.
- Historical context: communal baths have long served as spaces for gay and bisexual men to connect.
- Member experiences vary widely between locations, with NYC branches reportedly more active than suburban ones.
- Legal cases and media attention may influence future gym policies and public perception.
