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AIBU?

Share your dilemmas and get honest opinions from other Mumsnetters.

How unreasonable would it be to lie about my son’s age so he can join our gym?

184 replies

WinoLino · 24/11/2025 17:41

He’s 14. Getting into things he shouldn’t be getting into a bit. I think the gym would be a great distraction. Me, his dad and his 18 year old sister all go to the gym. It’s aged 16 and up though. I’m a rule follower at all times so I’m not saying we will do it. However, how unreasonable would it be if we were to say he is 16? Is it even possible, thinking they might want to see ID.

He will train only with us and his dad really knows what he’s doing (has spent his whole life training in the gym) so the risk of injury is lessened but of course it’s there nonetheless. Am I not thinking straight?

OP posts:
TulipCat · 24/11/2025 17:50

Our local council run gym has junior gym from age 12. Maybe there is one like that near you he could go to.

aWeeCornishPastie · 24/11/2025 17:50

Everyone saying it will invalidate an insurance claim…yada yada. How likely is that going to happen if he is training with you his family? I would do it OP. Sometimes in life rules are there to be broken

ButtercupLane · 24/11/2025 17:48

I would think that the gym's insurance policy has an age limit for safety.
He would not be covered in the event of an accident.

Sprogonthetyne · 24/11/2025 17:47

I wouldn't lie, and think you would probably be caught anyway. Lots of gyms do allow younger members, my local leisure center allows 11+, if accompanied by an adult. I think there are also restrictions on what they can use.

Octavia64 · 24/11/2025 17:43

They’ll check id, almost certainly.

find one that has a junior gym

LivingDeadGirlUK · 24/11/2025 17:43

Its a Total fitness.

LivingDeadGirlUK · 24/11/2025 17:43

Find a gym he can join, my 8 year old comes to the gym with us.

Rooroobear · 24/11/2025 17:43

I’d think if an accident happens it will null and void the insurance. If he wasn’t far off 16 then maybe but he’s not. Theres lots of gyms that have kids from 13 up. Find one of those

WallaceinAnderland · 24/11/2025 17:42

It may invalidate their insurance should he be injured. Also it's fraud.