Former Big Brother Naija star Teddy A has ignited a contentious social media discussion after sharing his unsolicited opinions on women’s gym attire. The reality TV personality and musician took to social media this week with a video addressing what he perceives as inappropriate workout clothing choices, specifically targeting women’s athletic wear that he deems too revealing.
In the widely circulated clip, Teddy A expressed concerns about certain gym fashion trends, suggesting that some women’s workout clothes lack sufficient coverage and modesty. His comments have triggered a wave of responses across social platforms, with opinions sharply divided between supporters who appreciate his “traditional values” and critics who view his statements as outdated policing of women’s choices.
“I’m not trying to be insensitive,” Teddy A stated in the video. We don’t want them to start banning girls from the gym because of indecent dressing.” The statement implied that revealing gym wear could potentially lead to institutional restrictions on women’s access to fitness spaces—a suggestion that many commentators have challenged as both unrealistic and problematic.
The former reality star, whose full name is Tope Adenibuyan, rose to prominence after appearing in the 2018 “Double Wahala” season of Big Brother Naija alongside his now-wife Bambam. Since then, he has maintained a significant social media presence and ventured into music and business endeavors, occasionally weighing in on social issues.
Fitness expert and gym owner Amara Okafor offers perspective on the practicality of workout clothing: “Athletic wear has evolved based on performance needs, not just aesthetics. Compression fabrics, moisture-wicking materials, and designs that allow freedom of movement serve specific purposes. What might appear ‘revealing’ to some is often functional for particular exercises and body types.
Teddy A’s comments touched on a recurring theme in discussions about gym culture—the tension between personal comfort, functional necessity, and social expectations. While he framed his concern as promoting a “healthier and more respectful atmosphere,” many fitness professionals point out that focusing on others’ clothing choices can actually create a more uncomfortable environment.
Social commentator Folake Adesina notes the gendered nature of such criticisms: “It’s interesting how these conversations almost exclusively target women’s clothing choices. Men work out shirtless or in form-fitting attire without similar scrutiny. This suggests the issue isn’t about ‘modesty’ but about controlling women’s bodies and choices.”
The timing of Teddy A’s comments coincides with broader cultural conversations about body autonomy and freedom from judgment in public spaces. Fitness communities worldwide have been working to create more inclusive environments that welcome diverse body types and personal expressions, making his traditional stance particularly controversial.
Dr. Ngozi Emeka, a psychologist specializing in body image issues, explains the potential impact of such public commentary: “When public figures make prescriptive statements about appropriate attire, especially targeting women, it can reinforce harmful ideas about body shame and self-consciousness. Many women already face significant barriers to engaging in physical fitness due to fear of judgment.”
Reactions across social media platforms have been mixed, with some users applauding Teddy A for “speaking truth” and others criticizing him for overstepping boundaries. One Twitter user wrote: “Nobody asked Teddy A to appoint himself fashion police at the gym. Women’s workout clothes are their business and no one else’s.”
Another user countered: “He has a point about maintaining some standards. Gym is for working out, not showing off.”
The controversy highlights evolving standards around athletic wear and competing values regarding personal expression versus communal standards. Athletic apparel companies have increasingly designed workout clothing that emphasizes both performance and aesthetic appeal, creating options that range from conservative to more revealing styles.
Sports sociologist Dr. Kunle Adebayo contextualizes the debate: “Throughout history, women’s athletic wear has been a battleground for cultural values. From the restrictive clothing women were once required to wear for tennis and swimming to today’s performance-oriented designs, each evolution has faced resistance before becoming normalized.”
Several women who frequent gyms have expressed frustration with Teddy A’s approach. Fitness enthusiast Zainab Mahmoud responded: “I choose my gym clothes based on what allows me to monitor my form, stays in place during movement, keeps me cool, and gives me confidence. I’m not dressing for other gym-goers’ comfort or discomfort.”
Studies have consistently shown that concerns about appearance and judgment represent significant barriers preventing many women from participating in physical fitness activities. Public commentary that heightens these anxieties can potentially discourage gym attendance and physical wellness pursuits.
Fitness influencer Tolu Adeyemi offered a measured response: “While everyone should be mindful of shared spaces, the primary considerations for workout clothing should be safety, functionality, and personal comfort. What works for one person’s fitness journey may not work for another, and that’s perfectly fine.
As the conversation continues across social platforms, many industry professionals suggest the focus should shift toward creating genuinely inclusive fitness environments rather than imposing arbitrary standards on particular groups.
Gym owner David Okonkwo summarizes: “The best gyms focus on creating cultures where everyone feels welcome to pursue health in whatever appropriate athletic wear makes them comfortable. That might be loose-fitting clothing for some and more form-fitting options for others. The common denominator should be respect for each person’s choices.”
Teddy A has yet to respond to the widespread reactions to his comments. Whether his views represent a momentary controversy or signal a deeper cultural conversation about appropriate athletic wear remains to be seen. What’s clear is that as fitness continues to become more accessible and mainstream, discussions about inclusion, comfort, and personal choice will remain relevant in determining how welcoming these spaces truly are for everyone.
