Being a Neurodivergent Personal Trainer
My journey to becoming a qualified personal trainer has been anything but typical. I have autism and ADHD. I've faced challenges that many wouldn't understand—sensory overload in noisy gyms, lack of motivation on tough mental health days, and the exhausting effort of masking in traditional fitness spaces.
But here's the thing: these same challenges have shaped me into the trainer I am today.
I truly understand what it's like to feel out of place in the fitness world. My mission? To help others, particularly neurodivergent individuals, feel confident and supported in their fitness journeys, whether training online or in person at the gym.
Embracing Neurodivergence in Fitness
Being neurodivergent isn't a barrier—it's a unique lens through which I approach fitness. And honestly? It makes me a better trainer for people who've struggled in traditional gym environments.
My autism allows me to notice things that others overlook, like how a client's posture shifts during a workout, or when someone's starting to feel overwhelmed before they even say anything. I can spot the subtle signs that someone needs a break, a modification, or just a moment to regulate.
ADHD, on the other hand, fuels my creativity and energy. I create dynamic, engaging sessions that cater to different learning styles. Whether it's using visual aids, breaking tasks into small steps, or incorporating sensory-friendly modifications, I adapt to meet needs. This approach helps me connect with clients who feel overwhelmed or misunderstood in traditional gym settings.
If you're neurodivergent and wondering whether fitness can actually work for you, I've created the Ultimate Guide to Neurodivergent Fitness—it covers everything from managing sensory overload to building sustainable routines that work with your brain.
Understanding Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria changed how I give feedback. I'm explicit about what's working, not just what needs correction. I check in about emotional state, not just physical fatigue. I create space for clients to say 'that landed wrong' without defensiveness. Because I know that for ND brains, criticism—even constructive—can trigger intense shame.
Challenges of Being a Neurodivergent (and Fat!) Personal Trainer
While my neurodivergence brings strengths, it also comes with challenges that I've had to learn to navigate.
Busy gym environments, with their bright lights, loud music, and constant activity, can be overstimulating. The fluorescent lighting alone can trigger sensory overload, and the unpredictability of busy periods adds another layer of challenge.
I've learned to manage this by scheduling sessions during quieter times and finding sensory-friendly spaces for my clients. Understanding when gyms are less busy isn't just helpful for me—it's crucial information I share with every neurodivergent client.
Executive dysfunction, a common autistic/ADHD challenge, can make planning and organisation difficult. Some days, the thought of creating a workout plan feels insurmountable, even though I know exactly how to do it. I've developed systems like detailed checklists and structured routines to stay on track. These aren't just personal coping mechanisms—they're strategies I can share with my clients who face the same struggles.
If you're dealing with similar hurdles in your own fitness journey, know that you're not alone. And more importantly, there are practical solutions that actually work.
In-Person Training That Feels Safe, Supportive and Designed for You
Stepping into a gym can be daunting, especially if you're neurodivergent or have felt out of place in fitness spaces before. That's why I've made it my mission to create in-person sessions that feel calm, inclusive, and completely tailored to you.
When we train together face-to-face, you won't be thrown into the deep end. You'll be welcomed into a supportive space where your comfort comes first. I even run gym inductions on a 1:1 basis and tailor them to you.
Here's what that looks like:
Quiet Corners and Calmer Spaces
We'll use the quieter areas of the gym so you can focus without sensory overload or feeling watched. No being stuck in the middle of the weights section wondering if everyone's judging you.
Clear, Step-by-Step Guidance
No guessing games. I break everything down into simple, easy-to-follow instructions to keep things clear and reduce overwhelm. Learn more about what to expect in your first session.
Sensory Support Options
We can use noise-cancelling headphones, work in areas with lower lighting, and adapt the session however we need to help you feel safe and in control. Discover more sensory-friendly fitness strategies here.
A Space Where You're Seen and Heard
Whether it's your first ever gym visit or you're chasing a specific goal, I'll meet you where you are—no judgment, no pressure, just progress at your pace.
If you've ever thought, "I wish someone just got it"—I do. And I'm here to help you feel strong, confident, and capable in your own way.
Ready to Take the First Step?
If gym anxiety has been holding you back, my Gym Confidence Starter Package gives you three supportive sessions to help you feel comfortable and capable in the gym environment. It's specifically designed for people who need that extra support to get started.
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT GYM-BASED TRAINING →
Online Coaching That Actually Works for You
Working together online has been a complete game-changer—both for me and for the amazing people I support.
Not everyone feels comfortable in a gym. Some of us find those spaces overwhelming, inaccessible, or just not the right fit. That's why I offer inclusive, flexible online personal training designed around you—your pace, your space, and your needs.
Here's how I keep it supportive, engaging, and effective:
Live Video Calls
Real-time guidance, encouragement, and a space to ask anything—no pressure, no judgment. Just you, me, and a plan that makes sense for your brain.
Personalised Video Demos
Prefer to go at your own pace? I'll record easy-to-follow videos, tailored specifically to your workouts, so you feel confident every step of the way.
Progress Tracking Apps
We'll use simple tools to keep track of your workouts, celebrate your wins, and help you stay motivated between sessions.
The best part? You can train from the comfort and safety of your own home. No travel, no crowds, no fluorescent lights or blasting music—just you, me, and a plan that works for your brain and body.
If you've ever felt like the gym just isn't made for you... maybe it's not. But this is.
Want a Structured System You Can Follow?
My Sensory-Safe Strength System is an 8-week program designed specifically for neurodivergent people who want to build strength without the overwhelm. It includes sensory-friendly modifications, clear instructions, and progressive workouts that work with your brain, not against it.
Building a Community for Neurodivergent Clients
Beyond individual sessions, I'm passionate about building a sense of community, creating spaces where people feel understood and supported without the pressure to mask or perform.
My Not So Typical Fitness community offers a mix of online and in-person opportunities including:
Virtual support groups to share experiences and tips with others who get it
Group fitness challenges to bring people together and offer motivation
Educational content from sensory-friendly workout tips to managing mental health through fitness
The community is completely free and judgment-free. It's a space where you can ask questions, celebrate wins (no matter how "small"), and connect with others who understand the unique challenges of neurodivergent fitness.
JOIN THE FREE COMMUNITY HERE →
Why Autistic and ADHD Representation Matters in Fitness
Representation is powerful. When you see someone like you doing something you thought was impossible, it changes what you believe is possible for yourself.
It challenges stereotypes and inspires confidence.
As a neurodivergent personal trainer, I want to show that fitness is for everyone—not just the naturally coordinated, naturally motivated, or naturally confident. I advocate for accessibility, from quieter gym spaces to clearer workout instructions, and push for industry-wide changes that accommodate diverse needs.
When I share my struggles with executive dysfunction, burnout, or days when I struggle too, I'm not just being vulnerable, I'm showing you that it's okay to not be okay sometimes. That fitness doesn't require perfection.
The fitness industry has long promoted a "no pain, no gain" mentality that's harmful for everyone, but especially for neurodivergent people who are already working harder just to exist in neurotypical spaces. I'm actively ditching that mentality and replacing it with something more sustainable and compassionate.
Empowering Change Through Fitness
Fitness has the power to change and save lives, and I'm here to make sure that power is accessible to all. My work as a neurodivergent, autistic ADHDer and personal trainer goes beyond just exercise. It's about creating a safe, supportive space where clients can thrive.
Whether you're looking for online training that fits your schedule and sensory needs, or in-person sessions designed with your comfort in mind, I'm here to help you take that first step.
Here's How We Can Work Together:
If you want structured support:
The Sensory-Safe Strength System (£27) gives you 8 weeks of sensory-friendly programming you can follow at your own pace.
If you're nervous about the gym:
The Gym Confidence Starter Package (£349) includes three supportive sessions specifically designed to help you feel comfortable and capable in the gym.
If you want personalised 1:1 support:
Personal training (online or in-person) gives you customised workouts, ongoing support, and someone who truly understands your challenges.
If you're not ready to commit yet:
Join the free community to connect with others, get tips, and see if this approach feels right for you. You can also book a free discovery call to chat about your goals and concerns with no pressure.
Are You Ready to Start Your Fitness Journey?
Whether you prefer the flexibility of online training or the hands-on support of in-person sessions, I'm here to help.
You don't need to be perfect, motivated, or "ready." You just need to take one small step. And I'll be right there with you, understanding exactly what you're going through because I've been there too.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes you different as a neurodivergent personal trainer?
As someone with autism and ADHD, I have lived experience of the challenges neurodivergent people face in fitness spaces. I understand sensory overload, executive dysfunction, and gym anxiety firsthand. This allows me to create training environments and programs that work with neurodivergent brains, not against them.
Do you offer online or in-person training?
Both! I offer in-person personal training at gyms in Wolverhampton (JD Gyms and Codsall Leisure Centre), as well as online personal training via video calls. I also have digital programs like the Sensory-Safe Strength System that you can follow at your own pace.
How do you accommodate sensory sensitivities during training?
I schedule sessions during quieter gym times, use calmer areas of the gym, provide clear step-by-step instructions, and offer sensory support options like noise-cancelling headphones. All my programs include sensory-friendly modifications and alternatives.
What if I've never been to a gym before?
I offer personalised gym inductions on a 1:1 basis, and my Gym Confidence Starter Package includes three supportive sessions specifically designed to help you feel comfortable in the gym environment. We'll go at your pace with no pressure or judgment
Do I need to be neurodivergent to work with you?
While I specialise in neurodivergent fitness, anyone who feels out of place in traditional gym settings or needs a more sensory-friendly, supportive approach is welcome to work with me.
Related Reading
If you found this post helpful, you might also enjoy:
Why My Neurodivergence Shapes My Approach to Fitness - A deeper dive into how autism and ADHD influence my training philosophy
The Ultimate Guide to Neurodivergent Fitness - Everything you need to know about fitness as a neurodivergent person
Overcoming Gym Anxiety: A Complete Resource Guide - Practical strategies for managing anxiety in fitness spaces
How to Find Quiet Gym Times - Reduce sensory overload by choosing the right times to visit
