Fitness training for the neurodiverse community
Do you find gyms and leisure centres overwhelming? Maybe bustling, noisy surroundings send your senses into overdrive. Our small, friendly gym does fitness differently.
Does entering a gym or leisure centre make you feel completely overwhelmed?
Sheer number of people put you off?
Staff a little too eager?
Music and surroundings too loud?
Exercising alongside strangers feels too much?
Gym’s website daunting?
This is a familiar experience for so many, and it’s not limited to fitness centres.
Approximately one in seven people are neurodivergent meaning between 10 to 13.5 million people in the UK are part of our community. Many have faced similar challenges from an early age, often feeling isolated and like they don’t quite belong.
This is why Strong Path CIC exists.
With over 13 years experience working in the fitness industry
Founder, James Dewar-Haggart, realised the need for a space that catered to both neurodivergent and neurotypical people, so opened a gym that runs inclusive personal and small group training to accommodate everyone’s needs.
Strong Path CIC case study
Abby’s Journey
Background
At Strong Path CIC, our mission is to provide a safe, inclusive space for neurodiverse individuals and others who find traditional gym environments overwhelming. Abby, a member of our gym, is a perfect example of the transformative impact that personalised support and an inclusive fitness environment can have on both physical and mental well-being.
Abby’s story
hen Abby first joined Strong Path CIC, she had a clear goal in mind: to improve her strength and fitness so she could pursue a career in the ambulance service. Abby needed to pass a rigorous physical test to qualify for the role, and she knew that a traditional gym environment would not suit her needs. She felt anxious and unmotivated, and traditional fitness spaces often caused sensory overload.
Abby’s Experience at Strong Path CIC
Abby found the support she needed at Strong Path CIC. Our non-judgmental, welcoming environment and small group training sessions allowed her to focus on her fitness without feeling overwhelmed. She worked closely with our coaches to build her strength and endurance, and over time, her confidence grew alongside her physical abilities.
“The coaches get to know everyone really well—our strengths, weaknesses, preferences, and any injuries. I can ask questions without fear of judgement. I like the small groups because I know help is there if I need it, but it’s not overwhelming socially. We have good conversations that keep me motivated, but if I don’t feel like talking, I can listen to my music instead. The other members are friendly, and I’ve never had any issues.”
The impact
Abby’s dedication and the supportive environment at Strong Path CIC paid off. Not only did she pass her physical test for the ambulance service, but she also set a new record for one of the tasks during her assessment. She has since secured a full-time job in the ambulance service, where she now helps others, fulfilling her career aspirations.
The Abby explains:
“Before joining Strong Path, I didn’t leave the house much. I felt unmotivated, my physical health wasn’t great, and I was anxious and miserable most days. Now, I’m happier, I have a good career ahead of me, and I’m fitter and healthier. I’m calm, less anxious, and I have goals I want to achieve. Strong Path has made all the difference.”
