Being a Neurodivergent Personal Trainer
My journey to becoming a qualified neurodivergent personal trainer has been anything but typical. I have autism and ADHD. I’ve faced challenges that many wouldn’t understand. These include sensory overload in noisy gyms and a lack of motivation on tough mental health days. These same challenges have helped shape me into the trainer I am today. I truly understand what it’s like to feel out of place in the fitness world. My mission? To help others, particularly neurodivergent individuals, feel confident and supported in their fitness journeys, whether online or in person.
Embracing Neurodivergence in Fitness
Being neurodivergent isn’t a barrier; it’s a unique lens through which I approach fitness.
My autism allows me to notice things that others overlook—like how a client’s posture shifts during a workout.
ADHD, on the other hand, fuels my creativity and energy. I create dynamic, engaging sessions that cater to different learning styles. Whether it’s using visual aids, breaking tasks into small steps, or incorporating sensory-friendly modifications, I adapt to meet needs. This approach helps me connect with clients who feel overwhelmed or misunderstood in traditional gym settings.
Challenges of Being a Neurodivergent Personal Trainer
While my neurodivergence brings strengths, it also comes with challenges. Busy gym environments, with their bright lights, loud music, and constant activity, can be overstimulating.
I’ve learned to manage this by scheduling sessions during quieter times and finding sensory-friendly spaces for my clients. Executive dysfunction—a common autistic/ADHD challenge—can make planning and organisation difficult. I’ve developed systems like detailed checklists and structured routines to stay on track. These not only help me but also give strategies I can share with my clients.
Working In Person
In-person training offers an opportunity to connect face-to-face with clients and create a supportive environment. I work hard to make gym sessions comfortable and inclusive. For neurodivergent clients, this means:
Finding quieter corners of the gym to reduce sensory overload.
Using clear, step-by-step instructions to minimise confusion or overwhelm.
Offering options like noise-canceling headphones or dimmed lighting when possible.
My goal is to build trust and guarantee that every client feels seen and heard. Whether it’s their first time in a gym or they’re working toward a specific goal, I tailor each session.
Working Online
Online training is a game-changer for both myself and my clients. It allows me to connect with people from around the world who do not have access to inclusive fitness spaces. Here’s how I make online training effective and engaging:
Video Calls: I offer live guidance, ensuring clients feel supported and can ask questions in real time.
Personalised Video Demonstrations: For those who prefer asynchronous learning, I create short, easy-to-follow videos tailored to their workouts.
Workout Tracking Apps: These help clients track their progress and stay motivated between sessions.
Online training also offers flexibility, allowing clients to exercise in a familiar, comfortable space—their own home. It’s an ideal choice for anyone wanting a personal trainer but who find traditional gym settings overwhelming or inconvenient.
Building a Community for Neurodivergent Clients
Beyond individual sessions, I’m passionate about building a sense of community. Creating spaces where people feel understood and supported. My Not So Typical Fitness community offers a mix of online and in-person opportunities including:
Virtual support groups to share experiences and tips.
Group fitness challenges to bring people together and offer motivation.
Educational content from sensory-friendly workout tips to managing mental health through fitness.
Why autistic and ADHD Representation Matters in Fitness
Representation is powerful. When you see someone like you it does something.
It challenges stereotypes and inspires confidence.
As a neurodivergent personal trainer, I want to show that fitness is for everyone. I advocate for accessibility—from quieter gym spaces to clearer workout instructions—and push for industry-wide changes that accommodate diverse needs.
Empowering Change Through Fitness
Fitness has the power to change and save lives, and I’m here to make sure that is accessible to all. My work as a neurodivergent, autistic ADHDer and personal trainer goes beyond just exercise. It’s about creating a safe, supportive space where clients can thrive.
Whether you’re looking for online training that fits your schedule, I’m here to help you take that first step. Alternatively, if you prefer in-person sessions designed with your sensory needs in mind, I can help with that too.
Are you ready to start your fitness journey?
Whether you prefer the flexibility of online training or the hands-on support of in-person sessions, I’m here to help. Join the free Not So Typical Fitness community on Facebook today. Discover how empowering and enjoyable fitness can be. Contact me here.
