Why Every Gym Should Offer Video Guides for Accessibility
A Simple Yet Powerful Tool to Support New and Neurodivergent Gym Members
Starting at a new gym can feel like walking into a maze — confusing, loud, and full of unspoken rules. You don’t know where anything is, who to ask, or what to do. For many people, especially those who are neurodivergent or brand new to fitness, this uncertainty can be enough to stop them before they even begin.
Starting the Gym Shouldn’t Be This Overwhelming
That’s why every gym should offer clear, helpful video guides. It's such a simple way to improve accessibility. These videos can reduce anxiety, provide essential information upfront, and help every member feel more confident before they even walk through the doors.
What a Video Guide Should Include
1. How to Find the Gym
Let’s start with the basics: getting there. Gyms are often tucked away in retail parks, upstairs in shopping centres, or hidden down side streets. A short video showing:
The front of the building
Any nearby landmarks
Where the entrance is
Where to park or access public transport
This helps new members feel confident they’re in the right place — and that matters.
2. Navigating the Inside of the Gym
Once inside, the layout can be just as confusing. A walk-through video should cover:
Where to find locker rooms, water fountains, and toilets
Where different zones are (cardio, resistance, free weights, functional, etc.)
Which areas are women-only, staff-only, or members-only
Knowing this in advance helps reduce sensory overload, eases anxiety, and lets people plan their first visit with less stress.
3. Where to Go for Help
Not knowing who to talk to is a huge barrier. A short clip introducing:
The reception or help desk
Uniforms or name badges staff wear
Emergency exits and first aid stations
Friendly faces who are there to support you
This can transform someone’s experience from “I don’t belong here” to “I know where to go and what to do.”
4. How to Stay Informed
Gyms often have noticeboards, printed timetables, app info, or PT profiles scattered around. But if you’re new or overwhelmed, you might miss all of it. A simple video could show:
Where class schedules are posted
How to book into a class
Where to find personal trainer profiles or request help
Community boards or challenges that members can get involved in
This encourages participation, especially from members who might not feel confident asking questions.
5. What to Expect in a Gym Induction
Gym inductions are meant to help, but they’re often rushed, skipped, or feel awkward.
A pre-recorded video can show:
What the induction covers (equipment demos, safety info, gym rules)
Which machines you'll see most often and how they work
Beginner-friendly workout ideas and form tips
How long it takes and what to bring
This takes away the guesswork; which is one of the biggest causes of gym anxiety.
6. Understanding the PAR-Q Form
If you’ve never seen a PAR-Q (Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire), it can feel intimidating. A quick explainer video can walk people through:
What the form is and why it matters
What each question is asking
Why it's not about judging your health, but protecting it
Knowing that this form is standard practice — and not some kind of test — can be a huge relief for new members.
Accessibility Isn’t Optional. It’s Essential.
Gym video guides might seem like a small thing, but they can break down big barriers. For some people, the biggest hurdle isn’t the workout; it’s walking through the door. Feeling lost, judged, or unsure creates the kind of discomfort that stops people from even trying.
By offering clear, supportive video guides, gyms show they understand that inclusion means everyone gets to feel welcome, not just the confident or experienced few.
Fitness should feel possible from day one.
Let’s stop assuming everyone knows how to "just get started."
Take Action: Make Your Gym More Accessible
Are you a gym owner, manager, or staff member? Want to make your space more accessible and inclusive? Start by creating a few short, friendly videos showing the basics.
If you’re not sure where to begin; I can help.
I specialise in supporting gyms and fitness spaces to become more welcoming to neurodivergent and anxious members. Whether it’s scriptwriting, filming support, or advice on inclusive onboarding, I’d love to collaborate.