Inclusive Fitness Programs for Trans & Non-Binary Individuals

Let’s be honest: the fitness world can feel like a fortress of assumptions. Locker rooms are labeled “Men” and “Women.” Class instructors shout cues about “ladies” and “guys.” And, you know, the entire structure often presumes a one-size-fits-all body narrative. For transgender, non-binary, and gender-nonconforming folks, this isn’t just awkward—it can be a massive barrier to entry, a source of real anxiety, and frankly, an exclusion that hurts.

But here’s the good news: change is not just possible, it’s happening. Creating a fitness program that is genuinely inclusive isn’t about grand, expensive gestures. It’s about thoughtful shifts in language, space, and programming. It’s about moving from tolerance to active belonging. Let’s dive into how we can build that.

Table of Contents

It Starts with Language: The Foundation of Safety

Words are the first point of contact. They set the tone. Inclusive fitness programming absolutely hinges on getting this right.

Ditch Gendered Language

This is the big one. Instead of “Okay guys!” or “Ladies, lower those knees,” use neutral alternatives. “Team,” “folks,” “everyone,” “y’all,” or even “friends” works beautifully. In written materials, swap “he/she” for “they.” It’s a small change with a huge impact, signaling that you see and respect all identities.

Ask for & Use Correct Names and Pronouns

Make it a standard practice to ask for a name and pronouns during intake—and then use them. Have a field for it on every form. If you make a mistake? Apologize briefly, correct yourself, and move on. Don’t make a huge production out of it; just model accountability.

Rethinking Space: Beyond the Binary Locker Room

Physical space is a major pain point. The binary locker room setup forces a choice that can feel unsafe or invalidating for many. So, what can we do?

Offer Private/Universal Options: Where possible, create a single-stall, all-gender changing room and bathroom. It’s a simple, concrete solution that provides a crucial option.
Communicate Policies Clearly: Have a visible, non-discrimination policy that explicitly includes gender identity. State that members may use the facility that aligns with their gender identity. Train all staff on this.
Consider the Layout: Can shower areas have more privacy? Can lockers be in a more neutral zone? Small design tweaks can reduce anxiety significantly.

Programming with Intention: Exercise & The Body

Fitness goals for transgender and non-binary individuals can be uniquely tied to gender affirmation. A workout isn’t just about fitness; it can be a tool for feeling more at home in one’s own skin. Understanding this is key to effective programming.

Affirming Fitness Goals

For some trans men and transmasculine folks, building upper body strength or shoulder width might be affirming. For some trans women and transfeminine folks, workouts focusing on glutes and hips, while managing expectations around muscle growth pre-or post-hormone therapy, might be relevant. Non-binary individuals might seek a more androgynous physique or simply want to feel strong without gendered expectations.

The trick? Listen first. Have open conversations about goals without assumption. Offer personalized exercise modifications for gender-affirming workouts. This builds incredible trust.

Navigating Physical Discomfort

Binders, packers, or post-surgical considerations are a real part of the exercise experience for many. Create an environment where people feel comfortable asking for modifications. For instance, high-intensity cardio while wearing a binder can be dangerous—knowing alternative, supportive exercises is crucial.

Common Consideration	Inclusive Fitness Strategy
Exercising while binding	Offer lower-impact cardio options, focus on strength training, emphasize listening to the body’s signals.
Post-surgical recovery (top/bottom surgery)	Provide clearly outlined, phased return-to-exercise protocols. Collaborate with the member’s healthcare provider.
Dysphoria triggered by certain movements	Always offer alternative exercises or stances. Avoid forcing participation in movements that cause discomfort.

The Human Element: Training Your Team

All the policy in the world fails without a trained, empathetic staff. This isn’t a one-hour seminar. It’s ongoing cultural competency work.

Train on correct terminology (transgender, non-binary, cisgender, deadnaming, etc.).
Role-play scenarios: how to handle a member’s concern about locker rooms, how to correct a pronoun mistake gracefully.
Emphasize that it’s okay to not know everything—but it’s not okay to be unwilling to learn. Foster curiosity over judgment.

Beyond the Basics: Building True Community

Inclusivity is the floor, not the ceiling. The goal is belonging. Consider offering dedicated class times or small group training for LGBTQ+ folks. This isn’t segregation—it’s creating a targeted, lower-anxiety entry point for people who might otherwise stay away. Partner with local LGBTQ+ organizations. Feature diverse bodies in your marketing. Honestly, show up for the community outside your gym walls.

It’s a journey, sure. You might fumble a pronoun or realize a policy needs tweaking. That’s okay. The commitment to keep learning, to keep listening—that’s what matters most. Because fitness, at its very best, is about empowerment. It’s about helping people feel strong, capable, and connected to their own bodies. And every single person, regardless of gender, deserves that feeling. By building bridges instead of barriers, we don’t just open our doors wider; we make the entire ethos of fitness stronger, more creative, and genuinely for everyone.