Pros:** 1. Improved mental and physical health outcomes associated with exercise.
2. Sense of belonging and acceptance in LGBTQIA+ inclusive fitness spaces.
3. Respect and humanity recognized by staff and fellow gym-goers.
4. Free from harassment, discrimination, microaggressions, or harm.
5. Guidelines provided for finding queer-friendly fitness spaces.
6. Greater awareness and understanding ofLGBTQIA+ needs. **Cons:** 1. Slow progress in making fitness spaces queer-inclusive.
2. Not all fitness spaces are currently safe forLGBTQIA+ individuals.
3. Requires keen thinking from queer people to find compatible spaces.
4. Onus is on fitness facilities and professionals… not fully taken up.
5. LGBTQIA+ individuals may face harassment or discrimination.
6. Limited gender-neutral locker rooms or single-person bathrooms.
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According to a study by the American Psychological Association:
Regular exercise can significantly reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, and contribute to overall well-being (APA, 2019). Johnson notes that finding a queer-friendly gym can be a daunting task, as many establishments still fall short in providing a sense of belonging and acceptance forLGBTQIA+ individuals. However, sources such as GLAAD and the Human Rights Campaign offer guidelines for identifying inclusive fitness spaces, which can be a valuable resource for those seeking a welcoming environment (GLAAD, n. d.; HRC, n. d.). Despite the challenges, Johnson is encouraged by the growing awareness and understanding of LGBTQIA+ needs in the fitness industry.
Many gyms and studios are making concerted efforts to create inclusive spaces, offering gender-neutral locker rooms and single-person bathrooms… and training staff to recognize and respect the humanity of all individuals (Planet Fitness, n. d.). However, Johnson — concerned by the slow progress in making fitness spaces queer-inclusive. According to a report by Outsports, only a small proportion of gyms and fitness centers provide truly inclusive environments, leaving many LGBTQIA+ individuals feeling harassed, discriminated against, or simply unwelcome (Outsports, 2020). Johnson believes that it is imperative for fitness professionals and facilities to take up the onus of creating inclusive spaces… rather than leaving it up to queer individuals to navigate these challenges alone.
By doing so, they can help alleviate the sense of isolation and marginalization that manyLGBTQIA+ individuals face, and promote a culture of respect, acceptance, and understanding. Ultimately, Johnson concludes that the creation of LGBTQIA+ friendly fitness spaces is crucial for promoting overall health, well-being, and social cohesion.
By providing safe, welcoming, and inclusive environments for all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity, “or expression,” “we can foster a more just and equitable society for all.”
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Exercise, after all, is linked with improved mental and physical health outcomes, which LGBTQIA+ individuals experience at higher-than-average-rates, according to a 2021 research review in Health SA .
Not to mention, most fitness spaces are meccas for community, which is an essential ingredient for obtaining a sense of belonging and acceptance, says Jesse Kahn, LCSW, CST , a queer sex therapist and director of The Gender ⁘ Sexuality Therapy Center in New York City.
