LGBTQIA+ community members and allies in Brunswick are building strength, confidence and connection through Queer Fit, an inclusive group fitness program delivered at Brunswick Baths.
Created to provide a welcoming and supportive environment away from the public gym floor, participants with little or no previous strength-training experience can exercise in a safe space with the added benefit of improving their fitness and health.
Pictured in header: Katherine Fry, Queer Fit patron at Brunswick Baths
The classes run four times a week, with cardio based weekday morning sessions, strength focused evening sessions and a mobility class on Sundays.
Brunswick Baths Venue Manager Irene Smith said the success of the program highlights the importance of creating spaces where everyone feels welcome.
“It’s impressive to see how an inclusive class designed for a community that may otherwise feel uncomfortable or excluded in conventional fitness environments has flourished.
“Classes are adapted to suit all fitness levels, so everyone feels comfortable and able to focus on exercise while also building meaningful social connections.”
A genuine sense of community
Led by instructors Lucy, Rosie, Laura and Alanda, the Queer Fit community has grown beyond the walls of the venue, with the group now venturing out for bush walks and other outdoor activities.
“I can’t wait to see where Queer Fit classes take us next as they evolve and expand into the future,” said Group Fitness Coordinator, Rosie Arnold.
Regular participants Katherine Fry, 57, Allison Browning, 49 and Chloe Kingdon are thriving in their overall wellbeing through regular participation.
Allison, who has been part of Queer Fit since the first class, has worked to extend the inclusive community outside of the program.
“I started a group chat in the early stages of the class and since then it’s developed into a community I love being a part of: safe, fun and supportive.”
“These are my closest friends. In class, we’ve celebrated marriages and pregnancies, supported each other through grief and smashed out a lot of kettlebell swings along the way.”
Katherine shared: “Queer Fit is my happy place. Wonderful trainers, an incredible community and all the positive feelings make it the best way to start the day. It goes well beyond the classes as I’ve created lasting friendships.”
Chloe added, “I feel like I fit in here. Having this group keep me accountable and encourage me to get some early morning exercise has been great!”
Inclusion at the forefront
At Belgravia Leisure, inclusion is embedded in the organisation’s Social Inclusion Policy and ongoing commitment to ensuring all people feel welcome, respected and supported. Damian Gorman, National Manager Access and Inclusion, Belgravia Foundation said:
“Providing welcoming and inclusive programs like Queer Fit at community venues demonstrates the importance of supporting all communities, including the LGBTQIA+ community and allies, to move more, connect more and live well.”
Queer Fit sessions at Brunswick Baths run on Mondays at 7.15am and 6.15pm, Wednesdays at 7.15am and 6.15pm, Fridays at 7.15am and Sundays at 9.30am.
For more information, visit the Active Merri-bek website.
Key facts:
- Queer Fit is an inclusive fitness program delivered at Brunswick Baths for LGBTQIA+ community members and allies
- The program provides a welcoming and supportive environment for participants of all fitness levels and experience
- Sessions focus on functional fitness, strength training, cardio and mobility
- Classes are delivered six times each week across morning and evening timeslots
- Participants report improved confidence, wellbeing, social connection and sense of belonging
- The Queer Fit community regularly connects outside of class through social activities and outdoor events
- The program reflects Belgravia Leisure’s commitment to creating inclusive, accessible opportunities that help communities move more, connect more and live well.
