Inclusive Fitness: Training Neurodivergent Bodies and Brains | Episode 34
Sun Feb 01 2026
Send me a text
Support the show!
Your brain isn't broken, your workout just isn't built for you!
In this episode of Talk Your Abs Off, I sit down with fellow personal trainer Rhiannon Cooper to talk about fitness through the lens of ADHD and autism. This conversation is especially close to my heart because working with neurodivergent clients is an area I care deeply about and one that is still wildly underrepresented in the fitness space.
Rhiannon is a late diagnosed autistic ADHD personal trainer based in the UK and the founder of Not So Typical Fitness. She specializes in neuroinclusive training and works with clients who have felt overwhelmed, excluded, or misunderstood in typical gym environments. She brings both professional knowledge and lived experience into this conversation, which makes it especially powerful.
We break down what it means to be autistic and ADHD, how those traits can show up in exercise routines, and why consistency, motivation, and discipline can feel so hard for neurodivergent brains. We talk about routine versus novelty, sensory overwhelm in gyms, and how internal sensations can feel unsafe for some people. We discuss how neurodivergent friendly fitness focuses on autonomy, flexibility, and helping people feel safe and confident in their bodies.
This episode is for anyone with ADHD or autism who has struggled to stick with fitness, felt like they were bad at exercise, or wondered why standard workout advice never seemed to work. If you want a more compassionate, sustainable approach to movement that works with your brain instead of against it, this conversation is for you.
Where to find Rhiannon:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rhiannoncooperpt/
Website: https://www.notsotypicalfitness.co.uk/
Support the show
Pick up my FREE Workout Planner at www.endorfinwellness.com/free-resources.
And hey, if you like what you see (or hear), or want to drop me a message, join me over at:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coachabbyclapper
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CoachAbbyClapper
Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more fitness tips and inspiration!
Cover art photo by https://www.jordantorelliphotography.com/
The information provided on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or professional advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before starting any new exercise or nutrition program. The opinions expressed by the host and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the podcast or its sponsors. By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this information as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you experience any health issues or have any concerns, please seek immediate medical attention.
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Send me a text Support the show! Your brain isn't broken, your workout just isn't built for you! In this episode of Talk Your Abs Off, I sit down with fellow personal trainer Rhiannon Cooper to talk about fitness through the lens of ADHD and autism. This conversation is especially close to my heart because working with neurodivergent clients is an area I care deeply about and one that is still wildly underrepresented in the fitness space. Rhiannon is a late diagnosed autistic ADHD personal trainer based in the UK and the founder of Not So Typical Fitness. She specializes in neuroinclusive training and works with clients who have felt overwhelmed, excluded, or misunderstood in typical gym environments. She brings both professional knowledge and lived experience into this conversation, which makes it especially powerful. We break down what it means to be autistic and ADHD, how those traits can show up in exercise routines, and why consistency, motivation, and discipline can feel so hard for neurodivergent brains. We talk about routine versus novelty, sensory overwhelm in gyms, and how internal sensations can feel unsafe for some people. We discuss how neurodivergent friendly fitness focuses on autonomy, flexibility, and helping people feel safe and confident in their bodies. This episode is for anyone with ADHD or autism who has struggled to stick with fitness, felt like they were bad at exercise, or wondered why standard workout advice never seemed to work. If you want a more compassionate, sustainable approach to movement that works with your brain instead of against it, this conversation is for you. Where to find Rhiannon: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rhiannoncooperpt/ Website: https://www.notsotypicalfitness.co.uk/ Support the show Pick up my FREE Workout Planner at www.endorfinwellness.com/free-resources. And hey, if you like what you see (or hear), or want to drop me a message, join me over at: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coachabbyclapper YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CoachAbbyClapper Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more fitness tips and inspiration! Cover art photo by https://www.jordantorelliphotography.com/ The information provided on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or professional advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before starting any new exercise or nutrition program. The opinions expressed by the host and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the podcast or its sponsors. By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this information as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you experience any health issues or have any concerns, please seek immediate medical attention.