My Vision to Improve Gym Accessibility
By Rhiannon Cooper | Not So Typical Fitness
Accessibility Shouldn’t Be an Afterthought
I’m Rhiannon; a personal trainer with a difference.
My difference? I’m autistic and have ADHD.
That lived experience shapes how I see fitness, how I train, and how I advocate for others. Because I know what it’s like to walk into a gym and feel like it wasn’t designed for you.
Gym accessibility shouldn’t be an afterthought or a special feature — it should be the standard. Everyone deserves to move their body in a space that feels safe, comfortable, and supportive.
And here’s the thing: fitness doesn’t look like one type of person. There isn’t one “fit” body or one “right” way to train. If you’re making choices that support your physical or mental health; whatever that looks like for you; then you’re already doing it.
Health is about prioritising your wellbeing in ways that actually work for you.
Want to make your gym a place where everyone feels welcome? I help gyms across the UK create sensory-friendly, inclusive environments that benefit both members and staff. Get in touch to find out how we can make accessibility your next big strength.
Making Gyms More Accessible and Inclusive
My mission is to create a fitness industry that truly includes everyone; where accessibility and inclusion are built in, not bolted on.
That’s what Not So Typical Fitness stands for.
I’m here to:
Break down barriers that stop people from starting their fitness journey
Challenge outdated fitness stereotypes
Help gyms design calmer, sensory-friendly environments
Show that exercise can be flexible and adaptable for every body and every brain
Whether that means turning down the music, providing clearer communication, or making inductions less overwhelming; small changes can make a huge difference.
You can also check out my YouTube channel, where I share advice for beginners, neurodivergent gym-goers, and anyone looking to rebuild confidence in the gym.
How Gym Audits Can Improve Accessibility
My long-term goal is to work with gyms across the UK to make them more inclusive; not just for neurodivergent people, but for anyone who’s ever felt anxious, overwhelmed, or “out of place” in fitness spaces.
That includes:
Creating quiet workout zones or “calm corners”
Offering video guides and visual walk-throughs for inductions
Training staff on neurodivergence and hidden disabilities
Providing clear signage and consistent communication
Designing membership processes that reduce overwhelm
Are you a gym owner looking to make your space more accessible and inclusive? Let’s work together to identify easy, practical ways to support every member; from quieter zones to clearer communication. Contact me to start improving your gym’s accessibility today.
Accessibility starts before someone even walks through the door. Imagine if your first gym visit felt calm, supported, and empowering; instead of intimidating.
That’s what I’m working to make happen.
Because when gyms become more accessible, everyone benefits.
You can read more about this in my related post, Why Gym Accessibility Benefits Everyone.
Finding the Right Gym for You
Finding a gym that feels right can make all the difference.
If you’re neurodivergent, anxious, or just starting out, look for:
Quiet times that fit your routine
Friendly staff who are open to feedback
Spaces with calmer lighting and lower noise levels
Supportive communities where you don’t feel judged
No gym will be perfect; but you deserve to find one that meets your needs.
Accessible Personal Training in Wolverhampton
As a neurodivergent personal trainer based at JD Gyms Wolverhampton, I understand that traditional fitness approaches don’t work for everyone.
That’s why my accessible personal training programmes are designed to:
Support neurodivergent clients (autistic, ADHD, or otherwise)
Reduce gym anxiety and overwhelm
Focus on sustainable progress; not perfection
Build strength, confidence, and independence in a safe space
If you’ve ever felt out of place in a gym, I want you to know: you belong here too.
Get in touch to learn more about my accessible personal training sessions at JD Gyms Wolverhampton, or message me directly; I’d love to help you start your journey. Use the form at the bottom of this page or click here.
Join the Movement for Inclusive Fitness
My vision is simple: a fitness industry where accessibility isn’t an exception; it’s expected.
Together, we can create gyms that welcome everyone, celebrate differences, and make movement feel like a homecoming instead of a hurdle.
Let’s build a future where every person; neurodivergent, disabled, anxious, or otherwise; can confidently walk into a gym and say, “this space is for me.”
Additional Reading
If you found this post helpful, you might enjoy these related reads from Not So Typical Fitness:
Respect in the Gym: Why Re-Racking Weights Matters
Small actions can make a big difference. Learn how simple habits like re-racking weights help create safer, more respectful gym spaces for everyone.
How to Overcome Gymtimidation
Feeling anxious about stepping into the gym? Here’s how to build confidence, manage overwhelm, and find your place in fitness; no matter your experience level.
Inclusive Gyms Matter: Accessibility & Safety Standards
Discover why inclusivity should be at the heart of every gym; and how accessible design benefits both members and staff.
Quiet Times at the Gym: How to Find Them
Learn how to plan your workouts around quieter hours to reduce sensory overwhelm and enjoy a calmer, more focused gym experience.
Why Gyms Should Offer Video Guides
Find out how simple video walk-throughs can make gyms more accessible, especially for neurodivergent or anxious beginners.
Every small step toward inclusion makes a big difference; thank you for being part of it.
Are you a gym owner ready to take accessibility seriously? I offer consultations and accessibility audits to help you create a gym where no one feels left out. Let’s chat; contact me by filling in the form below and take the first step toward real inclusion.
Frequently Asked Questions About Gym Accessibility
What does gym accessibility actually mean?
Gym accessibility means creating fitness spaces that everyone can use and feel comfortable in — regardless of disability, neurotype, or background. It’s about reducing sensory overwhelm, improving communication, and designing environments that are welcoming to all bodies and brains.
How can gyms become more inclusive for neurodivergent people?
Gyms can start by making small but powerful changes; such as lowering music volume, providing quiet workout times, offering video induction guides, and training staff to better understand neurodivergent and hidden disabilities. Accessibility helps everyone, not just those who need adjustments.
What makes a personal trainer ‘accessible’?
An accessible personal trainer adapts their approach to your individual needs. That could mean allowing extra time for instructions, offering sensory breaks, explaining equipment step-by-step, or focusing on calm, structured sessions that reduce overwhelm.
As a neurodivergent personal trainer based at JD Gyms Wolverhampton, I bring both lived experience and professional knowledge to help clients feel understood and supported.
How can I reduce anxiety before going to the gym?
Start by visiting during quieter times and planning your visit in advance. Bring sensory supports like headphones or fidget tools, and let staff know if you need adjustments. You can also download my free Gym Anxiety Toolkit to track gym busyness and plan supports that make your workout calmer.
Get the Gym Anxiety Toolkit for free here.
Why is accessible fitness important?
Because everyone deserves to experience the benefits of movement. When gyms are inclusive, they create community, confidence, and connection; not just for disabled or neurodivergent people, but for everyone. Accessibility doesn’t exclude anyone; it simply makes fitness better for all.
Where can I find an accessible personal trainer near me?
If you’re in or around Wolverhampton, I’d love to support you on your journey. I offer accessible personal training sessions at JD Gyms Wolverhampton, designed for autistic, ADHD, and neurodivergent clients; or anyone who’s ever felt like they don’t fit in the typical gym environment.
