Winnipeg fitness studio making sure gyms are fully inclusive

The time to make those New Year’s resolutions is upon us, but for those seeking health and fitness goals, a traditional gym can be intimidating.

Now some in the industry are creating spaces that ensure fitness is inclusive for all.

The words “Come As You Are” outside of the Main Street studio’s door, is the message Amie Seier says The Community tries to live by. Saying the fitness space is a space for all people, including those who may not feel comfortable at a traditional gym and she says the welcoming environment is not coincidental.

“It’s all very intentional from our location to who we hire as coaches, how we set up our programming,” explained Seier, owner of The Community. “I think lots of people don’t feel comfortable in a gym.”

As many people put health and fitness at the top of their lists, she says it’s important gyms break down the intimidation factor and allow people to thrive.

“It’s one thing to say things, but to live it, and be it, to me, that’s more important,” explained Seier.

Patrick Eulalia has been a member at the fitness centre for more than a year and just recently started working at Community, with his fitness journey taking him from hiding in the bathroom before his first class, to teaching a private class to some of his own friends a year later.

“Just the energy, the inclusivity and just the community, that feeling of teamwork and of comradery were so euphoric to me and so welcoming for me, I didn’t want that feeling to go away for myself,” explained Eulalia.

He says it’s critical when people are ready to start their own fitness journey, they’re met with open arms.

“It’s important to feel included and to feel welcome in fitness spaces, whether it be gyms or fitness studios like this.”

As someone who has hit the gym in major cities across Canada, he feels what’s happening at The Community is special and needs to be embraced more and more in the industry.

“Whether it be for health, recreation, or religion, whatever it may be, I think it’s important to feel welcome wherever you are, whatever space you want to express yourself, and fitness is just one of those spaces.”

Eulalia says for those who are new to the gym, it’s perfectly normal to be nervous, especially if you are trying something new.

And for Seier, while she does not set resolutions, she encourages those who are setting goals for 2023 to take care not to put themselves under too much pressure.

“If you really want to do something, just do it and don’t beat yourself up if you’re not hitting the gym seven days a week.”