Dynamo: more than a gym
Why Dynamo is building a space where everyone belongs.
For many people, walking into a gym can feel intimidating. It’s not because they don’t care about their health – previous experiences of judgement, discrimination or simply not feeling welcome have made fitness spaces feel unsafe. That’s something Cat, founder of Dynamo, is determined to change.
With a background in mental health and disability advocacy, inclusivity isn’t a marketing slogan at Dynamo, it’s woven into the gym’s culture. “Being inclusive isn’t just having a policy,” explains Cat. “It’s about making sure everyone has equal opportunity to access movement, while recognising that not everyone starts from the same place.”
That means acknowledging the barriers people may have faced, whether through weight stigma, ableism, racism, sexism, homophobia, transphobia or bullying. While Dynamo can’t erase those experiences, it can ensure that every person who walks through its doors is treated with respect.
The team encourages anyone who feels unsure about joining to get in touch before their first visit, creating a conversation that helps remove some of the anxiety around entering a new environment. If Dynamo can’t meet someone’s individual needs, they’ll happily recommend another fitness space that can.
Rather than offering separate sessions, Dynamo has intentionally created a shared community where everyone trains together. The result is a culture that attracts people who value kindness, respect and encouragement over ego.
“We’re a safe space for everyone,” says Cat. “That includes men too. Plenty of people don’t enjoy the intimidating atmosphere that exist in some gyms.”
It’s a refreshing approach that benefits every member. Clear boundaries around behaviour mean people can focus on training instead of worrying about being judged, stared at or made to feel uncomfortable. Cat believes every gym has a culture, whether intentional or not. At Dynamo, that culture has been built with purpose. “We won’t always get everything right,” she says. “But we’ll always listen, learn and keep trying to do better.”
In a month that celebrates Pride, Dynamo is proving that true inclusivity isn’t about ticking boxes. It’s about creating a community where everybody genuinely belongs.
www.dynamogym.co.uk | Unit 6, 64 Davigdor Rd, Hove BN3 1RF
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