My mission is to help make fitness and workout and movement spaces more affirming and accessible to all bodies.
I want others to explore their physical potential, thereby definingand taking control oftheir own bodies.
I have embedded in my fitness practice a grassroots community-based healing justice framework.
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are cisgender, able-bodied people who are also thin, white, straight folks.
We DONT need folks projecting a limited, normative view of what bodies should look and move like.
But like know that I dont speak for every trans and queer person in this world.
Think of these tips as some things to get you started.
Do most people or systems in our culture?
What is your first reaction?
Are you filled with warm fuzzies or do you cringe?
Examining our own responses to other people around us can help us understand where the work needs to happen.
I will use my words to lift up the trans and queer folks who suffer in silence.
I see you and I honor your struggle.
Finally, the tips!
This is the case for all people, and not just trans and gender nonconforming people.
Instead of asking, How may I help you, sir?
you might simply ask, How may I help you?
Nice to meet you.
This prompts folks to tell you theirs.
Some people are curious about what it means to be transgender; some will want to ask questions.
However, like everyone else, trans people want to keep their personal lives private.
If it is out of your own curiosity, its not appropriate to ask.
Think instead about the following: What do I know?
What do I need to know?
How can I ask for the information I need to know in a sensitive way?
in your marketing material.
There are awesome websites likeRepresentation MattersandBody Positive Fitness Alliancethat sell amazing stock photos highlighting diverse bodies!
Is your gym wheelchair accessible with accessible bathrooms?
Is it scent- and fragrance-free to accommodate folks who are sensitive to fragrances or chemicals?
Is your space properly equipped with easy-to-read signs and non-slip surfaces?
Can anyone regardless of socioeconomic status utilize your space or afford your services?
Do you offer sliding scale rates, scholarships, or free training for marginalized folks to participate?
As a minimum, provide gender-neutral bathrooms and locker room options.
This can be done by simply changing the signs on the bathroom door to more neutral terminology.
If not; reach out!
So like do your research and truly learn about the communities you are seeking to support.
Its well worth the small investment and free updates for life are included with all of my training material.
My goal is to one day make this database an interactive search tool on my website.
you’re able to get into the databaseherefor free.
Ilya Parker is a nonbinary trans masculine person of color currently living in Charlotte, North Carolina.
He’s also a writer, social justice advocate, and owner ofDecolonizing Fitness.
His mission is to help make fitness more affirming and accessible to all bodies.
