FlexAble Gym Workshop

Training workshops for gym professionals: to support the participation of people with intellectual disability at gyms and fitness centres.

Jessica at Gym swinging a weight

The FlexAble Gym Workshop program was created with the DDWA team alongside people with intellectual and other developmental disability to make gyms more accessible, inclusive and welcoming for people with disability. "Other" developmental disability may include communication disability, for people who have little or no speech, as well as neurodivergent people (e.g. autism).

Discover Hands-On Strategies: Book Your FlexAble Gym Workshop Today!

The FlexAble Gym Workshop isn't just a download of materials (although you can do this,... scroll to the bottom of this page) — Booking an in-person workshop is an engaging opportunity! This workshop is your chance to actively shape your gym and training into a more accessible and inclusive space. It's tailored for fitness professionals, front-of-house staff, and support teams, providing a workbook that addresses the challenges faced by people with intellectual disability in gym settings. But here's the real deal: while the handbook and online course are informative (and free to access), the four-hour in-person workshop is where the real learning happens. Dive into interactive activities that equip your team with practical skills, guiding you through effective communication and training methods for people with intellectual disability. Sign up now and transform your gym's approach!

EMAIL LYDIA.GALLANT@DDWA.ORG.AU TO REGISTER INTEREST IN HOSTING A WORKSHOP

Read more about the 'why you should book a FlexAble Gym Workshop...

At DDWA, we're all about making the world a more inclusive and welcoming place for people with disability; specifically, people with intellectual and communication disability. We understand your passion for fitness, your dedication to your gym, and your commitment to providing the best possible experiences for your clients.

That's why we're thrilled to introduce you to the FlexAble Gym Workshop, designed exclusively for fitness professionals like you who are eager to make a positive impact in the disability sector while elevating your skills and your gym's reputation.

This program is relevant for fitness and gym professionals, students, members of industry organisations and front of house customer service and/or membership management staff. Everyone in a fitness, gym and/or leisure centre environment makes an impact.

Here's what the FlexAble Workshop can offer you:

  1. Expertise Boost: Get ready to supercharge your knowledge! The FlexAble Workshop equips you with valuable insights and practical skills to confidently support people with intellectual disability and complex communication needs in your gym. You'll become the go-to expert in inclusive fitness in no time.
  2. Personalised Training Magic: Say goodbye to one-size-fits-all approaches. With our workshop, you'll discover effective communication strategies and real-life tips that will not only improve your interactions with people with disability but also take your training sessions to a whole new level of awesome.
  3. Building a Community of All-Stars: We're all about creating a community that welcomes everyone, regardless of their abilities. By joining the FlexAble Workshop, you'll be at the forefront of making your gym a more inclusive and caring space.
  4. Smart Business Moves: We know you're not just a fitness enthusiast; you're a savvy entrepreneur too. By participating in the FlexAble Workshop, you'll not only enrich your gym's reputation but also boost your client base and strengthen your business. It's not just a nice thing to do; it's a smart business strategy!

Join us on this exciting journey toward a more inclusive fitness industry. We believe that you can create a gym environment that welcomes everyone and, in doing so, elevate your career and your gym's success.

We run workshops for groups, small (~6) or large (20+).

Program Highlights: 

  • 4-hour face-to-face workshop session
  • Tailored guidance on using FlexAble resources
  • Real-life information and practical tips
  • Presented by experienced industry professional and an individual with intellectual disability

“FlexAble” provides a set of written and online video training resources aimed to help gyms feel more confident to welcome and support people with intellectual disability and complex communication needs in the gym environment.

About the Presenter:  

Dan Williams is the Director of Range of Motion and leads a team of Exercise Physiologists, Sports Scientists, Physiotherapists and Coaches. Dan has coached and taught sport and exercise for over 18 years working with many thousands of individuals along the full health spectrum, from the chronically injured, diseased and deconditioned, through to elite athletes. You can find out more about Dan on his LinkedIn profile: Dan Williams Range of Motion.

For more information: contact Lydia Gallant, DDWA Communication Manager

(08) 9420-7203 main phone | Lydia.Gallant@ddwa.org.au

* The FlexAble Gym Project has been funded by a NDIS – Information, Linkages & Capacity Building (ILC) Grant.