#trending: Public spin class at Jewel Changi Airport an ‘eyesore’? Netizens raise noise, safety complaints
SINGAPORE — Recent spin classes held next to the iconic Rain Vortex at Jewel Changi Airport have drawn the ire of netizens, sparking complaints dubbing them an unexpected "eyesore”.
A picture of a recent spin class held next to the iconic Rain Vortex at Jewel Changi Airport was posted to Reddit on Sunday (Nov 19), with many netizens voicing their complaints.
- A recent public spin class held at Jewel Changi Airport sparked noise and safety complaints from netizens after a picture of the session was posted to Reddit on Sunday (Nov 19)
- The spin classes are organised by health and wellness firm Minmed Group, running on Friday evenings and throughout the day on Saturdays and Sundays
- Other netizens highlighted similar experiences with public spin sessions held at shopping malls
“Why do they ALWAYS need to be so public and in this case completely block off a good part of the walkway?” Reddit user "harajuku_dodge" questioned.
The user had already noticed the spin class set up several months ago, but was appalled that classes had continued despite "massive crowds" looking to catch a glimpse of the nearby Super Mario exhibits, some of which were depicted in the post.
One commenter further asked: “Why are they allowed to block off the entire area from pedestrians? Looks like a fire and safety hazard.”
“The only grievance I have about this is that they completely blocked off the pathway, making it necessary to walk back and forth if you want to complete the circuit from the main entrance,” said another.
“Had there been a courtesy bypass for other visitors, I wouldn't have minded it at all.”
Others highlighted the potential of leaving a bad impression on tourists visiting Singapore’s world-famous airport.
One Redditor posited: “Imagine travelling thousands of kilometres (in anticipation) to witness Jewel for the first time, just to be greeted by this.”
Another shared their experience: “Was shocked when I visited one day and saw this. Great tourist attraction (with) lots of tourists snapping photos there. Then there's a whole bunch of them cycling in the middle. Like damn extra and out of place.”
CLASSES WERE CONDUCTED IN 'SILENT MODE': SPOKESPERSON
In response to TODAY's queries on Monday, a spokesperson from Jewel Changi Airport Development said that “feasibility and operational trials” were conducted before the launch of the spin classes to preserve guest experiences at the location.
“This involved mapping out the location of the spin bikes to ensure the flow into and within the Forest Valley is smooth for visitors and viewing of the iconic HSBC Rain Vortex would not be compromised,” said the spokesperson.
They added that the classes were conducted in “silent mode”, where headsets worn by the instructors and participants minimised noise pollution.
“As we near the year-end peak, we are ready to suspend the rhythm cycling classes, if necessary, in anticipation of the increased footfall.
"We will ensure that there is no obstruction and (that) proper footpaths are available for visitors to circle the HSBC Rain Vortex to improve visitor flow and enable them to enjoy the attraction,” added the spokesperson.
PUBLIC FITNESS SESSIONS AT OTHER MALLS
The controversy extends beyond Jewel Changi Airport, however, with other netizens airing their grievances about public spin sessions disrupting the peace at other malls.
One Redditor highlighted a similar "awful" recent experience when encountering a public spin class at Aperia Mall on Saturday, organised by Amway Singapore for a store opening.
“Yeah I just wanted to have a quiet breakfast so I left immediately when I saw it,” another user chimed in.
Another shared their story: “I work at Aperia and yesterday, even with my headphones in, I could still hear the bass booming loudly. Not to mention the whole thing was in front of my workplace.
“Had to endure it all the way from afternoon to evening. Literal hell.”
One user further raised noise complaints during a recent public spin session that "took up the entire atrium" at Wisma Atria.
“The mall is like one big cube, what happens downstairs will echo through the entire mall. I don’t need to hear your instructor counting down or asking you to give it your all while I’m having my coffee,” they wrote.
“Keep your spinning to a spin studio. If you’re out, go ride an actual bike where your nuisance is fleeting as you zoom past me and you’re gone. Cycling on a stationary bike in the middle of a mall with everyone looking at you with judgmental eyes is STUPID.”
TODAY has reached out to CapitaLand, Minmed Group and Revolution Singapore for comment.
