What does neurodivergent mean?
Neurodiversity refers to the natural differences in how people think, learn, process information, and behave. Neurodivergence includes autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, Tourette’s syndrome, and other cognitive variations.
Neurodivergent members bring unique strengths to your community – deep focus and empathy are just some of them. But those cognitive differences can also make the traditional gym environment overwhelming, intimidating, or difficult to navigate.
Understanding neurodiversity isn’t just good practice. It’s essential if you want to create a gym that meets the needs of current and future members.
What challenges do neurodivergent people face in gyms?
The gym environment may feel energising for some people, but it can easily be overwhelming for others. The challenges aren’t insurmountable, but require intentional design and staff awareness. Common friction points for neurodivergent (ND) members include:
- Bright or flashing lighting that triggers sensory overload.
- Loud or unpredictable music, especially in group exercise or large gym areas.
- Crowded areas, bottlenecks, and unclear layouts that feel disorienting.
- Complex onboarding processes that assume fast learning or high confidence.
- Inconsistent communication about schedules, changes, rules and regulations.
- Social pressures, including unfamiliar etiquette or perceived judgement.
- Instructions that rely heavily on verbal cues rather than demos or visuals.
- Any judgement or negativity towards neurodivergence from staff or members.
Why should gyms become more neurodiversity-friendly?
If neuroinclusive practice is new to you, here are three compelling reasons to bring it up your to-do list.
1. It’s a large, underserved audience.
Around 15-20% of the UK population is neurodivergent. That means a club with 1,500-2,500 members could have 200–400 neurodivergent members (diagnosed or undiagnosed) and other members with milder sensory sensitivities or anxiety around gym environments. It’s a substantial demographic and a big opportunity to differentiate your gym.
2. It boosts retention and member satisfaction.
Neuroinclusive gyms tend to be welcoming, predictable, and supportive – qualities that benefit every member, not just ND individuals.
3. It supports brand reputation and community impact.
More people are seeking spaces that respect individuality and wellbeing. Demonstrating your commitment to accessibility shows that your gym is progressive and member-centred.
7 ways to make your gym safe and accessible for neurodivergent people
1. Adjust lighting thoughtfully
Harsh lighting can be a major sensory barrier. Consider offering dimmed or low-light zones, reducing strobe-style or rapidly changing studio lighting, or using consistent lighting temperatures across spaces. Lighting changes are simple but high-impact.
2. Manage sound and music levels
Predictability helps ND members feel safe. Try setting maximum decibel levels in gyms and studios, providing “quiet hours” with no music/reduced noise, and minimising sudden sound changes (mic feedback, clashing weights).
3. Communicate clearly
ND members often thrive on clarity. Review your comms for:
- Clear, friendly explanations (avoid jargon)
- Easy-to-read class descriptions with symbols or imagery
- Consistent communication about schedule changes
4. Use inclusive marketing
Think about who your marketing represents. Show people of different abilities, body types, ages, and confidence levels to expand beyond high-intensity imagery and “no excuses” language. Representation tells people that they belong.
5. Train your coaching team in neurodiversity awareness
Coaches don’t need specialist qualifications, just a foundation of understanding. Train staff to give clear demonstrations, not just verbal instructions, offer step-by-step guidance without judgement, and to be patient, consistent, and open to alternative learning styles.
6. Simplify your onboarding
First impressions matter. Improve ND accessibility by your offering longer induction sessions for those who want more time, providing written guides (or videos), and allowing members to visit during quiet times.
7. Create predictable, low-pressure spaces
ND members often prefer spaces where they can learn at their own pace. Consider offering specific “low sensory” windows in your timetable or beginner sessions.
Connect your gym with corporate wellbeing clients
Neuroinclusive practice benefits everyone by offering a more accessible member journey. And as the number of adults with a neurodiversity grows, gyms that embrace inclusivity will have a competitive advantage.
If you’d like help bringing new audiences into your facility, Hussle’s network connects gym operators with thousands of corporate clients looking for inclusive wellbeing options. Talk to our team to find out how to be part of it.
