The Not So Typical Fitness Blog
A space where fitness meets real life, without the pressure to fit the "perfect" mould. From breaking down gym anxiety to finding routines that actually work for neurodivergent minds and bodies.
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Gym Accessibility
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Mental Health
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Getting Started
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Neurodivergent Fitness
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PT Qualifications
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About Not So Typical Fitness
Fitness Programmes for Gym Anxiety: What Actually Helps
Gym anxiety isn't a lack of willpower, most fitness programmes just aren't built for it. Here's what actually helps: knowing exactly what to do before you walk in, sensory strategies for the real gym environment, and scripts for every awkward moment. A guide for autistic, ADHD and anxious adults.
Will Lifting Weights Make Me Bulky?
Worried lifting weights will make you “too bulky”? This common myth holds many women back from discovering the benefits of strength training. The truth is, lifting builds confidence, resilience, and health — not bulk.
How Many Times a Week Should You Go to the Gym?
If you’re new to the gym, you don’t need to train every day. In fact, starting with 2–3 sessions per week is the best way to build confidence, avoid burnout, and make fitness a routine you can actually stick to. Small steps really do add up.
Gym Induction: What It Is, What Happens and How Long It Takes (2026 Guide)
A gym induction is a short, usually free session where staff show you around, explain the safety rules and demo the equipment before you train alone. Here's exactly what happens step by step, how long it takes, what to wear, and how to make it work if you're anxious, autistic or ADHD.
Respect in the Gym Starts With One Simple Habit
While working a late shift at the gym, I asked someone to re-rack their barbell. Instead of putting it back, she threw the clips and plates onto the floor. It was frustrating, but it highlighted something bigger: re-racking isn’t just about neatness, it’s about respect, safety, and making gyms more welcoming for everyone.
Ditching the ‘No Pain, No Gain’ Mentality
You've heard it before: "No pain, no gain." But what if that mindset is doing more harm than good?
Discover the difference between discomfort and danger, why “easy” workouts still count, and how kindness can actually lead to better results.