A gym in Kerala's Palakkad is reportedly set to introduce a set of Islamic-guided operational rules and is drawing attention for its structured approach to training, gender separation, and dress code expectations.According to details available on social media, the gym is said to have been running for around 15 years. The gym owner has now announced it would shift to a new model that aligns its environment with specific cultural and religious practices.ALSO READ: ThynkTech Pune India closure What the new gym rules sayThe announcement outlining the updated guidelines has been widely shared and includes clear operational changes for members:• No music or songs inside the gym• Men and women will not work out together• Separate timings for male and female members• Women are expected to follow Islamic dress requirements, cover their body and wear hijab• People of other faiths may join if they agree to the rulesThe gym’s management has not positioned the change as a closure or rebranding, but rather as a transition in how the facility will function going forward. However, The Economic Times cannot independently verify these claims, going viral on social media.ALSO READ: Rahul Gandhi to take membership at Mohammad Deepak's gym How the gym operated earlierBefore this shift, the fitness centre reportedly functioned as a regular mixed-use gym for over a decade. Locals say it was a known training spot in the area with steady membership and standard bodybuilding and fitness equipment.The recent change, however, marks a significant departure from its earlier setup, especially in terms of shared workout spaces and entertainment elements like music.Mixed reactions among locals and fitness communityThe announcement has triggered varied responses online and within fitness circles. While some see it as a matter of gender and community preference, others are discussing how such models may influence gym culture in small towns and semi-urban areas."Expect more like these in the coming days... Secularism is starting to flourish. period," a netizen commented on post. "Being 100 percent literate means going back by 1000 years," another comment read.Supporters of the move argue that structured environments with clear cultural guidelines can help certain members feel more comfortable while training. "Imagine the outrage if there was a hindu friendly gym opened by someone," another user commented.Critics, however, raise questions about inclusivity and whether such rules may limit access for a broader group of fitness enthusiasts.