YMCA Victoria launches regular inclusive LGBTIQ+ strength training classes

Brunswick Baths is leading the way with YMCA Victoria’s first regular inclusive LGBTIQ+ class.

Backed by Moreland Council, the Q-Fit program is the result of a six-week program that has been running over the first half of this year. Due to its high popularity, Q-Fit is now a regular fixture at Brunswick Baths.

Every Tuesday evening, a qualified queer-friendly instructor leads the class through a small group functional strength training session, which helps participants learn movement foundations and the techniques of strength training, in a private training space off the public gym floor.

‘Queer friendly, inclusive training’, or Q-Fit classes commenced as a regular group fitness in August and will run for the rest of the year. The inclusive program for eight participants is designed to provide a safe and supportive environment for the LGBTQIA+ community to participate in strength training.

Aleisha Leonard, Health and Fitness Coordinator at Brunswick Baths, led the development and rollout of the program and advises "exercising in a public space can be quite daunting, particularly for people from the LGBTIQ+ community.

“Feedback from members has been that this program creates a safe, supportive environment.”

36-year-old Brunswick local 'Ali' said a lifetime of bad experiences in heavily-gendered fitness spaces made them feel awkward, commenting “I felt unwelcome and stressed out in regular weights rooms and strength classes, but at Qfit I feel fully welcomed as who I am, so I'm able to relax and focus on my workout.”

'Leonard' noted that there were benefits for all types of exercise, especially mental and physical, but the highlight for her was seeing social connections.

She advised “Brunswick Baths is all about community and its wonderful seeing a regular crew come each week, form friendships and support one another.”

The classes are open to anyone who identifies as part of the LGBTIQ+ community (including allies). Participants require no previous training experience and Q-Fit’s ‘come as you are’ dress code helps reduce barriers to participation.