Brand influencer, fitness enthusiast, and aspiring lawyer Corazon Kwamboka has found herself on the receiving end of online criticism after a well-intentioned act of kindness took an unexpected turn.

As part of her New Year’s resolutions, Corazon announced she was decluttering her wardrobe and changing her style. Among the items she decided to part with were her gym clothes. However, this gesture sparked backlash, with many netizens labeling the act as “tacky” and “cringe,” arguing that donating used workout clothes—regardless of how long they’ve been worn—felt inappropriate.

Corazon’s Giveaway Announcement

Taking to Instagram, the mother of two shared details about her decision to give away her old gym apparel. She encouraged followers who matched her body type to visit her store on a set date to pick the items and “work out stylishly” like she always does.

“So, here’s how I’ll give away the gym clothes,” Corazon wrote. “I’ll drop them at my store, set a date, and be there so people can pick whatever they like.”

In addition to her gym clothes, Corazon revealed plans to donate toddler items once she finished reorganizing her home. She also invited her followers to join her in the decluttering effort, suggesting a larger group donation depending on the available items.

“I have to do more cleanup and add to what I did yesterday, including baby items and clothes I no longer use. If you have anything you’d like to donate, please hit me up so we can do something grand,” she added.

Netizens React with Criticism

Despite her thoughtful gesture, some online users were quick to criticize Corazon, comparing donating gym clothes to gifting intimate wear. This sparked a heated debate, with critics overlooking the irony that many Kenyans commonly purchase secondhand clothing, including activewear.

The backlash included comments like:

• @_mwangi_era: “Oh no, cringe.”
• @s1vestr922: “Surely? Gym clothes? Wueh, Kenyan socialites joo.”
• @hey.vivienne: “Who will even fit into them?”
• @k.k_6798: “My guy, these are flavored with all sorts of sweat.”

A Question of Perspective

The incident raises an interesting question: Is donating used workout clothes truly unacceptable? If they are clean and in good condition, how are they different from donating other types of secondhand clothing?

While Corazon’s intentions were noble, the strong reactions from some netizens highlight differing views on what is considered appropriate for donation. Perhaps, the conversation will inspire a more open-minded approach to acts of giving in the future.