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.

Diagnosis Journey, AuDHD, Not So Typical Fitness Rhiannon Cooper Diagnosis Journey, AuDHD, Not So Typical Fitness Rhiannon Cooper

From Shutdown to Self-Advocacy: My Late Diagnosis Journey

It started with a Christmas party that changed everything. What I thought was anxiety turned out to be my first autistic shutdown; the moment that led me to discover I’m AuDHD. This is my story of late diagnosis, self-discovery, and learning that being different isn’t something to fix; it’s something to understand, accept, and advocate for.

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Getting Started Rhiannon Cooper Getting Started Rhiannon Cooper

How to Stay Motivated Without Motivation

If you’ve ever wondered why you can’t stick to your plans, it’s not because you’re lazy; it’s because your brain feels unsafe. For autistic, ADHD, and anxious minds, motivation isn’t broken; it’s protective. This blog breaks down how to create “safe plans” that work with your brain instead of against it.

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Mental Health Rhiannon Cooper Mental Health Rhiannon Cooper

Some Days I Struggle Too: Mental Health and the Gym

Even as a personal trainer, I have days where mental exhaustion, anxiety, or overwhelm make movement feel impossible. This blog is an honest look at what it’s really like to navigate fitness while living with mental health challenges — and how to build routines that are flexible, compassionate, and actually sustainable.

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Mental Health, AuDHD Rhiannon Mental Health, AuDHD Rhiannon

When Rejection Feels Like Too Much: Understanding Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD)

Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD) can make even small moments feel overwhelming — a comment, a tone, a pause in a message. For many autistic and ADHD people, rejection doesn’t just sting; it hits like a wave. In this blog, we explore why RSD happens, how it impacts everyday life, and the practical tools that can help you navigate it.

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About Rhiannon, Not So Typical Fitness, Nutrition Rhiannon Cooper About Rhiannon, Not So Typical Fitness, Nutrition Rhiannon Cooper

5 Steps to Build a Positive Relationship with Food (Without Shame or Guilt)

Food shouldn't feel like a battle. In this post, I share 5 small but powerful steps that helped me let go of guilt, tune into hunger, and rebuild trust with food. Especially helpful for neurodivergent adults navigating binge eating or emotional eating patterns.

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