The Best Inclusive Gyms Will Have These 7 Subtle Green Flags, According to Fitness Instructors

If you’ve been afraid to go to the gym, try out a new yoga studio, or feel defeated in a group fitness class lately, you’re far from alone. Unwelcoming or biased fitness instructors, "fitness influencers" recording their workouts (and inevitably, people in the background), and otherwise non-inclusive environments are enough to make anyone discouraged by the gym-going experience.

Perfect example: You might have seen a now-deleted TikTok where a Pilates instructor said, "If you're 200 pounds, you shouldn't be in a Pilates class." Yikes. Hearing exclusionary sentiments like that can exacerbate your reluctance, even if you're logically aware that anyone can be fit, no matter their body size.

And that's just one instance. Many people have taken to social media to recount negative gym experiences. One woman, who describes herself as "moderately fit," posted a TikTok about her experience at a group fitness class where the instructor didn't fully demonstrate the exercises and made participants run in the dark. Someone also posted on Reddit about how their recent "beginner class" was, well, not beginner-friendly. One YouTuber even shared her story about feeling awkward as the only Black woman at a Pilates class, but mostly because the instructor made problematic remarks about Black women while she was there.

So is the answer to...just not go to the gym? Hopefully not! While some gyms aren't super welcoming, to say the least, many others out there are—it just might take time to find them. Ahead, fitness experts share the inclusive gyms at the top of their lists, plus what to look for in a healthy gym environment.

The 8 best inclusive gyms to try out

Whether you want to join a fiery Zumba class, crush a sweaty circuit on the rowing machine, or simply chill out on a yoga mat, here are the best inclusive gyms to find what you're looking for, judgment-free.

1. The YMCA

Rachel Trotta, CPT, a certified personal trainer and founder of Rachel Trotta Training and Coaching, says the YMCA is her “absolute favorite gym.” “I am a member at the Y myself, and I love the diversity and friendliness—not only for myself, but as a model of a healthy community for my daughter, as well,” she says.

While the pros involve seeing people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds, and accessibility with thousands of locations across the country, the membership and joining fees can be a little pricey depending on the type of membership you go for (though financial scholarships are available), and locations often have limited weekend hours.

2. Adaptive Training Foundation

Located in Texas, the Adaptive Training Foundation is a gym specifically designed for wounded and injured military veterans, as well as physically disabled people. “At this innovative non-profit gym, it doesn’t matter your race, gender, age, or ability level—if you have a body, you’re an athlete,” says David Vobora, a retired NFL linebacker and the founder of the Adaptive Training Foundation.

Since this is a non-profit, members who apply and are accepted do not have to pay membership fees. This provides a wonderful opportunity for veterans, disabled folks, or others with adaptive needs to access the quality care and fitness programs they need to stay well. Once people are accepted into the program, they are put into groups or "classes," where they can build community.

The only drawbacks are that there's only one location as of now, and while the environment is inclusive, the team is mostly comprised of folks who fall into the "fit" cookie-cutter stereotype, which may not feel as welcoming for some members.

3. Club Pilates

Prefer a Pilates-specific spot? “Club Pilates has helped introduce Pilates to the mainstream in a way that feels accessible and non-intimidating,” says Tianna Strateman, a Pilates instructor of over 15 years who's now the president at Club Pilates. What the club looks like, she says, is a welcoming place for people of all levels and ages, a tiered class system (so beginners feel less intimidated), an introductory class, and of course, friendly and supportive staff.

“I truly appreciate our amazing instructors who ensure that each class is structured yet personalized to ensure everybody has a great experience, no matter how long they’ve practiced Pilates,” Strateman says. “I’ve seen how important our culture is," she adds.

Pros include several locations nationwide and a variety of classes and levels. Some downsides, however, are that instructors don't always give corrections, which isn't ideal for some attendees, and inconsistent coaching depending on who's leading the class. (This is sometimes why people find their favorite instructors and only take their classes!)

4. LionHeart Gym

LionHeart Gym is located in California, and it’s on this list for good reason. “Our coaches know your name, meet you where you’re at, and offer modifications without making you feel singled out,” says Chelsea Kershaw, the co-owner of the LionHeart Gym. “Unlike some high-intensity gyms or boutique studios, LionHeart is focused on empowerment over ego," she adds.

The variety of classes (like cardio, lifting, and mobility) makes it a great choice for those looking to diversify their fitness routines or target several different goals. Plus, after your workout, you can hit up the gym's coffee bar with your fitness buddies. The only cons? There's just one location, and the instructors are mostly white and stereotypically "fit" people, which may not feel welcoming for some.

5. Pure Barre

Strateman loves how Pure Barre (a ballet barre-inspired workout method and boutique) offers a consistent, low-impact, accessible workout. She also appreciates the strong community vibe—especially among women—and the warm, caring instructors.

“I’ve attended classes at multiple locations and found the teachers to be wonderfully inclusive, offering modifications and genuine encouragement,” Strateman says. “The class structure supports progress without pressure, which can be great for those easing into movement or returning after time away," she adds.

Other pros include the variety of locations nationwide and the introductory classes, so beginners can ease into it. That said, barre isn't the best option if your goal is to improve your cardiovascular fitness (although you can do it in conjunction with other weekly workouts like running), plus classes and memberships can be pricey.

6. High Fives Foundation—CR Johnson Healing Center

If you’ve experienced a major injury, the High Fives Foundation—CR Johnson Healing Center in California may be the training facility for you. “Their vision is to create a universal shift in adventure sports that expands what is possible for those who have faced life-changing injuries,” Vobora says. This helps provide hope and opportunity for injured athletes, veterans, and other folks with disabilities to explore several different cool sports, like skiing, backcountry skiing, and snowboarding, to name a few.

The only downsides? This program is not necessarily an option if you don't have an injury that requires adaptive training, plus there's only one location so far.

7. YogaSix

If you're looking for a new yoga studio, check out one of YogaSix's many locations. Strateman says their classes feel intentionally beginner-friendly and open to all types of yogis. "Class names like 'Yoga 101' and 'Restore' help demystify the practice, and the focus is more on feeling good and working through your practice than 'achieving' certain poses," she adds.

Plus, "many locations have created a relaxed, non-performative vibe with instructors who offer modifications, respect individual needs, and emphasize listening to your body," Strateman says. She typically feels calm and grounded at YogaSix classes, finding their language aligns well with the concept of body neutrality (aka accepting your body versus liking or disliking it).

Though, just keep in mind that because the studio is often geared toward beginners, classes may not feel as challenging to seasoned pros. Also, the class times can be limited, so booking well in advance is advised.

8. [solidcore]

Inclusivity and empowerment are at the heart of everything [solidcore], the Pilates-inspired fitness studio, does. These values start from the top with CEO Bryan Myers—a Black, LGBTQ+ executive—and hold true at all studio locations across the country.

“Our studios are intentionally designed to help clients focus on strength and not aesthetics with our signature blue lighting and a strict no-photos policy,” says Triana Brown, the director of talent and product development at [solidcore]. “Coaches are trained to use body-neutral, affirming language that supports and empowers each person’s journey, regardless of size, gender identity, or experience level,” she adds.

Other pros include the introductory format to help new folks get acclimated, and the wide variety of classes that differ in intensity, muscles targeted, and duration. Potential cons are that some classes (like mat Pilates) may take place on concrete floors, and instruction style can vary depending on who's teaching.

What to look for in an inclusive gym environment

Of course, there's no such thing as a perfect gym. But there are different characteristics you may look for when finding one that's right for you. Here are some subtle green flags that might indicate the gym you're walking into is inclusive, welcoming, and healthy.

Diversity is present rather than performative. 

You want a gym that’s about action, not words. “You’ll know a gym is walking the walk when there’s visible diversity among the instructors, staff, and clients—across body types, races, gender identities, ages, and abilities,” Strateman says. “Representation should feel authentic and woven into the culture, not just marketing," she adds.

As a Black woman, Brown has experienced this firsthand. “When I see someone who looks like me, it sends a powerful message that I belong here, exactly as I am,” she says.

Modifications are normalized.

Have you ever been in a group fitness class and felt you couldn’t do the “right” move? Maybe your wrists hurt too much during a yoga pose, or you had difficulty keeping up with the choreography. Naturally, this can feel uncomfortable, but there's no shame in changing things up to suit your needs and abilities. An inclusive instructor can help by normalizing modifications, Strateman says, rather than treating them as “lesser.”

Also, if your instructor offers several ways to do moves throughout the class, this is often a sign they're keeping a variety of abilities and levels in mind.

There are no toxic or questionable signs.

Sometimes, a healthy gym environment isn't about what you see, but what you don't see. Case in point: Are there lots of posters or signs hanging up that are meant to be inspirational, but they just make you feel bad? Trotta says certain signs may "promote unhealthy thinking about your body or your abilities," and an inclusive gym won't have them.

One slogan Brown dislikes, in particular, is “work hard now so you can earn that brunch later.” Trotta says other questionable signage to watch out for surrounds weight-loss challenges, excessive focus on body composition testing, or phrases like “no pain, no gain” (which is a myth, BTW).

They have “how-to” signs.

On the flip side, signs at the gym aren't always a bad thing. Trotta encourages people to look out for good signs that clearly explain how to use the equipment (a cable machine can confuse anybody!) and remind gym-goers of gym etiquette like not talking on the phone super loudly.

There's respect for all levels, including beginners

An inclusive gym will have staff and group fitness instructors who respect, support, and celebrate all fitness levels. "At its best, it's a tribe that empowers those who are ready to learn, grow, and invest in becoming the best version of themselves," Vobora says. That might look like cheering people on rather than judging them, or explaining a move or instruction kindly.

Individuality is celebrated.

Your workout will look different from another person’s, and that’s great! You want staff and instructors who anticipate and appreciate the diversity of levels, body types, age ranges, and more, rather than force an agenda. 

“Inclusive spaces use affirming, empowering language, focusing on how movement feels rather than how it looks,” Strateman says. Some examples of cues you might hear, she says, are "Move in a way that feels right for your body today” or “Honor where you are right now.” Vobora agrees: “There’s no single ‘right way’ to move, train, or improve,” he says.

The space feels intentional.

Inclusivity isn’t solely about who you hire or how you talk to attendees—it’s also about subtle things, like song choice. Brown says it’s important that workout spaces play music that’s free of explicit or offensive content. Building a genuine community is another important piece. At [solidcore], that looks like coaches mingling with clients before and after class. “These intentional touchpoints transform individual workouts into shared and memorable experiences,” Brown adds.

The bottom line

TL;DR: Inclusive gyms are all over the country, full of supportive instructors, beginner-friendly classes, and nonjudgmental environments. If you find a gym that has helpful versus toxic signage and promotes respect, diversity, and modifications, you’ve probably found a solid spot.

And remember: It’s all about what you see in person, not just on the website (or even this article). “A gym can make ‘inclusivity’ part of its brand because it’s a buzzword, but ultimately, you can tell if a gym is truly inclusive from the evidence,” Trotta says. “Do you see people at varying stages of life, with different levels of ability, from diverse backgrounds, actually going to the gym consistently and using the equipment? There’s the proof," she adds.