Embracing Inclusivity in Fitness: The Story of Everybody Gym

Fitness is more than just working out; it’s about creating a space where everyone feels welcome and respected. This philosophy is exemplified by Everybody Gym in Los Angeles, a community-focused facility that prioritizes inclusivity for all.

The Importance of Safe Spaces in Fitness

Candace Hansen, a PhD candidate in musicology at UCLA, shares a troubling experience at a gym in Garden Grove, where they faced harassment for using the women’s restroom. This incident underscores the vital need for gyms to foster environments where all individuals feel safe and empowered. After this experience, Hansen found solace at Everybody Gym, which emphasizes acceptance and community support.

Founding a Welcoming Environment

Established in January 2017 by Sam Rypinski, Everybody Gym was created in response to the lack of safe spaces for the transgender community. Rypinski, a trans man himself, aimed to develop a gym that would not only prioritize fitness but also foster a sense of belonging for LGBTQ+ individuals. “Fitness is critical for my well-being, and I wanted to share that with others,” Rypinski explains.

The gym’s unique environment is open to all gender expressions, featuring gender-neutral changing areas with private stalls and showers. This design eliminates uncomfortable choices for gym-goers who may not identify with traditional gender norms.

Building Community Through Fitness

Sonny Koch, a trans trainer at Everybody Gym, emphasizes the importance of their work in these challenging times. “Having a welcoming space feels like a movement,” Koch states. With the escalating number of anti-trans bills and societal pressures, the need for such spaces is more crucial than ever. At Everybody Gym, trainers like Koch and Diaz find not only job fulfillment but also the courage to pursue their passions, like wrestling. The gym encourages staff development, including sponsoring training costs, making it more accessible for diverse individuals to join the fitness community.

Expanding Access to All

In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, Everybody Gym responded by launching “Homebody,” a digital video-on-demand service. This initiative allows members and non-members to access fitness classes, particularly benefiting transgender individuals who may not have access to a welcoming community in their local areas. Rypinski has also collaborated with organizations to provide free memberships to those in underserved regions.

Conclusion

Everybody Gym stands as a beacon of hope and inclusivity in the fitness industry. By prioritizing a welcoming atmosphere for people of all backgrounds, this gym fosters not only physical health but also mental and emotional well-being. As Hansen beautifully puts it, “It became this amazing landing pad for me to feel stable in who I was.” In a world where differences are often highlighted, Everybody Gym exemplifies what it means to embrace community through fitness, proving that a shared journey can lead to stronger connections and inspired lives.