• by Wayne Friedman , Staff Writer, January 10, 2018

A major health-club chain based in Minneapolis -- Life Time Athletic -- has removed all national cable TV news channels from its TV screens, wanting a more family-friendly environment.

The company says there were major complaints across the country from its members about these channels, given their politically charged content.

Though a “cool” medium, TV offers motivation for various activities.

Now, your treadmill run, spinning workout or cross-training moves may have to find other inspiration. Wondering whether sultry afternoon soap operas would work in place of snarky political commentary? (Hey, you at the bench press! No grunting!)

I’m wondering what the rule is for one’s portable media device -- smartphones or tablets.  If someone screams at a cable TV news programs’ news anchor, analyst, or other politico while on a steep hill climb, will he/she be ejected from the club?

What about bone-crunching NFL or college football, which often entails some unfortunate soul carried out on a stretcher? Is this considered "family friendly"’?

If the workout takes place on a weekday afternoon, confrontational talk shows -- such as Maury Povich, Jerry Springer or Steve Wilkos -- may be off limits, as well.

Are crazy-ass, hyped-up characters on these shows the model of family-friendly TV content? Guessing body slams from the WWE are OK, as well as the original sport where competitors can take a heavy head beating: boxing.

Will any health club restrict some TV networks? What about an in-house TV system that also sells local advertising avails? In that regard, I suggest those gyms find the highest-rated content to give their local TV advertisers the best impact for their campaigns.

Customers may have a take on where fake news really comes from -- but they should never fake fitness.