By Jillian Warren
It's June meaning Pride month is in full swing and we are celebrating the gyms that support the LGBTQIA+ community with a fiery passion. It's not uncommon that this group of individuals face a lot of discrimination on their journey and finding a safe space to be yourself is everything. For many people, not just LGBTQ+, going to your local CrossFit box or gym is a place where judgment is not allowed. It's a place where you not only go to work on yourself physically, but a place where you get to cheer each other on in mutual support. Unfortunately, some workout spaces haven't always been so kind to the LGBTQ crew, making it very difficult to find a place to exercise in peace. Fortunately, there is an organization taking steps to ensure that anyone who identifies under the LGBTQ+ umbrella, has the resources to find a workout space that ensures success in their health and wellness.
The OUT Foundation
What started out as a small group wanting to provide a safe and fun workout zone for gay people to meet up with, The Out Foundation has turned into a large nonprofit organization that focuses on empowering the entire LGBTQ+ community to find fitness support that will nurture their bodies and minds. From multiple programs and events that support LGBTQ+ inclusivity such as OUTAthletics and OUTHealth, it's no surprise that the OUT Foundation has come up with an incredible way to find gyms that are LGBTQ+ friendly. With the help of their inclusive gym locator, you'll be able to find a gym that is accepting and supportive of who you are. It's also a great tool to use if you happen to travel often and are in search of a gym where you know you will be welcome.
What We Are Doing to Support LGBTQ+
At Lifting The Dream, it has always been our mission to fight against the fitness industry and their standard of what "fit" should look like. We are all different and Pride month brings awareness to embracing those differences and accepting yourself and everyone as they are - because we are ALL beautiful no matter what we identify as. That's why we've created a new tank and t-shirt with the message, "Lift As You Are," in honor of Pride this month. For every shirt bought, a portion of the proceeds will go to the It Gets Better Project.
We hope that you have a fun month celebrating how far the LGBTQ+ community has come but also taking the time to discover new ways that will increase inclusivity so that everyone can enjoy working out safely in an uplifting space.
Have you found a gym that supports LGBTQ+ people? Drop the name in the comments!
If you have any questions or you would like to be a guest blogger, please email us at blog@liftingthedreamblog
CROSSFIT, INC DOES NOT ENDORSE, SANCTION, APPROVE OF, OR SUPPORT THIS WORK OR ANY OPINION EXPRESSED HEREIN.
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