Why Every Gym Should Offer Video Guides for accessibility

A simple way to improve accessibility

Every single gym should offer video guides for improved accessibility.

Starting at a new gym can feel intimidating. Especially if you’re not sure what to expect. The overwhelming maze of equipment can be daunting. It's difficult to figure out where to find essentials like lockers or water. Not knowing who to ask for help can discourage anyone. For anyone neurodivergent or new to fitness, this anxiety can be too much.

Every gym should offer clear and helpful video guides. This is important before someone even steps inside as a member. By addressing sensory overwhelm and fostering inclusion, gyms can create a more welcoming atmosphere for everyone. Just imagine how empowering it would be to understand the layout, the facilities, and the little “how-to’s” beforehand.

Gym Video Guides for Accessibility: A Game-Changer

How to Find the Gym on a High Street

Starting with the basics: getting to the gym!

A quick video showing the building’s exterior, street landmarks, and entrances makes a world of difference. Often, gyms are tucked away or in multi-story buildings, making them hard to find, especially on a busy high street.

A clear, guided tour from a nearby landmark to the front door provides assurance. New members feel confident they’re heading in the right direction. This helps to reduce anxiety and sensory overwhelm right from the start.

Navigating the Gym’s Layout: Accessing Key Areas

Once inside, a video guide walking through the layout can be incredibly helpful. This covers:

• Locker rooms: A simple, guided walk to the locker area can help. This reduces the confusion and stress of figuring it out on your own.
• Water stations: Members can quickly find where to refill their water bottles or grab a drink. This ensures hydration is within reach.
• Toilets and changing areas: These basics seem minor. But for someone new, knowing exactly where these facilities are adds a sense of security.

Having this information readily available gives everyone, especially neurodivergent members, more control over their experience. It answers questions before they are asked, reduces sensory overload and gives a sense of comfort.

How to Get Help and Where to Ask Questions: being welcoming

Walking into a gym and not knowing who to approach for help can feel intimidating.

Video guides can introduce new members to staff desks, emergency procedures, and highlight which team members to ask for assistance. It can also show where to locate things like first-aid stations. This helps new members feel safe and supported from day one.

Where to Find Information: Schedules, Notices, personal trainer profiles and Community Boards

Gyms often have various notice boards with class schedules, announcements, or community information. It's not always clear where to find them. A video that points out these information hubs can help new members stay informed. Seeing these resources beforehand encourages engagement and participation. New members are aware of upcoming classes or events that they not have otherwise known about.

Reducing Anxiety with Induction Videos

What to Expect in a Gym Induction: reduce anxieties

Inductions are designed to introduce new members to the gym’s equipment and policies. But, they’re often rushed or skipped due to time constraints. A pre-recorded induction video can give an overview of what the induction covers, setting expectations. This video also cover:

• An introduction to basic equipment: Highlighting often used machines like treadmills, stationary bikes, or weights can help demystify them. This can reduce anxiety.
• Safety information: An overview of gym etiquette, safe practices, and tips for beginners builds confidence. These guidelines make the gym environment more inclusive.
• Introductory workout ideas: A brief demo of beginner-friendly exercises can encourage new members to start exploring the gym comfortably.

Read this related blog about how not all gyms are created equally.

Understanding the PAR-Q Form: A Simple Walkthrough to lower nerves

The PAR-Q form (Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire) can be daunting for those unfamiliar with it. This health screening tool ensures that people are prepared to exercise safely. A brief video explaining what the form is, why it’s essential, and what each section means. This can relieve any stress about completing it. Knowing that a PAR-Q is a standard health check, not an invasive questionnaire reassures people. It makes them feel that their well-being is the priority.

Breaking Down Barriers in Fitness

For many, the hardest part of joining a gym isn’t the workouts. It’s overcoming the fear of the unknown and feeling that they belong. Gym video guides for accessibility seem like a small thing, but they can be a powerful tool. Using them can make gyms more welcoming and inclusive.

By offering this resource, gyms can take down unnecessary barriers. It creates an environment where anyone, regardless of their neurotype or familiarity with fitness, can feel confident and prepared.

Imagine how much easier it would be for new members to walk in knowing exactly what to expect. Gyms that adopt this approach aren’t just providing convenience; they’re fostering inclusion. Additionally, they are encouraging more people to feel comfortable embracing fitness. Shouldn't that be the goal?

After all, fitness is for everyone, and the journey should feel achievable from day one. Although, not everyone agrees; read this related blog about how I was trolled on Threads.

Suggested Links for Further Reading:

The Not So Typical YouTube Channel for key informational videos. Including how to set a number combination lock or what to expect in a gym induction.