Overcome Fitness Hurdles
From Frustration to Empowerment
Having to overcome neurodivergent fitness hurdles has not been easy. Conventional advice didn’t “click” for me. The intersection of neurodivergence and fitness often requires creative solutions and persistence. Read on to discover how I managed to make fitness work for me and my advice for others:
Anxiety and Sensory Overload
From sensory overload in crowded gyms to struggling to keep up with the same routines others seemed to breeze through, it often felt like fitness was a space I didn’t belong in.
It might be the sound of clanging weights, bright lights, or the hustle of a peak time gym that is overwhelming for most people. When you are neurodivergent, though, these sensory sensitivities are common and debilitating. After recognising these challenges, I was able to seek out quieter, less stimulating environments to reclaim my sense of comfort and control.
Adaptability with autism and ADHD...
It was through trial and error that I found ways to adapt.
One of my biggest “aha” moments came when I started working out at quieter times or finding alternative equipment that wasn’t so loud. By tuning into my sensory needs, I made fitness feel less like a chore and more like a form of self-care. I also learned the power of flexibility in routines; instead of sticking to one rigid schedule, I created variations based on my energy levels and needs. These adjustments transformed my workouts into something manageable and even enjoyable, allowing me to embrace my journey as uniquely my own.
Finding Empowerment
These small changes turned my frustration into a source of empowerment. They gave me the confidence to keep going and to shape fitness on my own terms.
Through recognising the importance of individualisation in fitness, I’ve become passionate about advocating for accessible and inclusive practices. Neurodivergent people and anxious beginners deserve fitness environments that adapt to their needs, fostering empowerment rather than exclusion.
Advocating for Neurodivergent-Friendly gyms
This is why I advocate for neurodivergent-friendly approaches in fitness.
By making simple changes, such as offering quieter gym times or sensory-friendly spaces you can make a significant impact.
I want others to know that challenges aren’t dead-ends; they’re just chances to find a better path. Fitness doesn’t have to be one-size-fits-all.
If you want to find out more about how I approach fitness as someone who has now lost 100lbs of body weight and qualified as a personal trainer, visit my YouTube channel!
Embracing Your Unique Fitness Journey
I believe that all deserve to be healthy. We all deserve to prioritise our health. If you are a little different or quirky, like me, this might mean doing 'fitness' differently from others.
But guess what?
That’s ok.
You can read this related blog about sensory friendly workouts and modifications.
Remember that empowerment comes from finding what works for you. Then you need to embrace the individuality of your path. By fostering inclusion and adaptability in fitness, we create a space where everyone can thrive, regardless of their starting point.
If you want to find out more about my personal training services and how you can overcome neurodivergent fitness hurdles, have a look here and contact me for any further information.
