The recent changes to the dress code policy at the Basler Center for Physical Activity have been both praised and ridiculed by ETSU students and BCPA members. The BCPA policy changes are an update on the original shirt requirements and reads “The bottom of the shirt’s arm hole cannot be more than four inches below the arm pit.””From what I understand the dress code policy at the CPA has always been that patrons must wear a shirt, but the type of shirt was never specified,” says Lynn Nester, Director of Campus Recreation.

The policy changes, which ban sports bras without a shirt and t-shirts with their sides cut out, were determined for a few different reasons, says Nester, who recently took over as Director.

“One of the reasons for the policy change is to help eliminate the amount of sweat on the machines, for health, safety and maintenance reasons,” says Nester. “The other reason is to create a comfortable workout environment for all patrons of all ages.”

The lack of clothing on some BCPA members can be a distraction, says Hayley Dupre, 23, an ETSU graduate working at the BCPA temporarily.

“It’s unnecessary to be half-naked while working out,” says Hill. “I understand that you get hot but that’s a part of exercising.

“The gym staff tries to keep the temperature at a comfortable setting for that reason.”

The policy changes shouldn’t be that big of a change for gym members, says Shelly Hill, 23, a student worker at the BCPA.

“People should know what proper dress code is for a public forum,” says Hill. “Students and members should be able to moderate their clothing for themselves.

Students and members of the BCPA could be asked to leave if they don’t exercise that self-moderation and show up for a workout in violation of the updated dress code policy, says Nester.

“Patrons who are in the BCPA with inappropriate clothing will be asked by a professional staff member to change or put appropriate clothing on,” says Nester. “If the person does not have alternative clothing with them, they will be asked to leave to get the appropriate clothing.”

Whether you support it or not, the new dress code at the BCPA should make for a better workout environment for everyone, Hill says.

“Exercising with a big room full of your peers can be a vulnerable experience for a lot people,’ says Hill. “When you’re surrounded by people who are half-naked, it can take away from your workout experience.”

“The dress code will make the gym a more comfortable place for everyone.

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