Gym Buddy

What you will be doing

A gym buddy volunteer provides support to individuals, particularly those with disabilities, to help them access and enjoy gym activities. This involves accompanying them, offering guidance on equipment, and fostering motivation and confidence. The aim is to break down barriers to participation and promote an inclusive environment. 

• Accompanying and Supporting:

Gym buddies accompany individuals to the gym, providing assistance with navigating the space and accessing equipment. 

• Guidance and Instruction:

They may offer guidance on how to use equipment, adjust settings (like weight stacks), and understand exercise routines. 

• Motivation and Encouragement:

A core aspect is motivating individuals to participate and achieve their fitness goals, offering encouragement and positive reinforcement. 

• Building Confidence:

Gym buddies help individuals build confidence in their ability to exercise independently and enjoy the gym environment. 

• Breaking Down Barriers:

They help identify and address any barriers to participation, such as access issues, communication difficulties, or social anxiety. 

• Following Guidelines:

Volunteers ensure the safety and welfare of the individual they are supporting, following any specific guidelines or protocols. 

• Reporting Concerns:

They report any issues or concerns to the relevant coordinator or supervisor. 

Skills required

• To be kind, empathetic and friendly
• To have a good sense of humour and love to chat
• Good communication skills
• Positive & supporting attitude
• To be punctual and reliable
• Commitment to inclusion
• To be able to deal with information in line with our data protection and confidentiality procedures
• To be able to assist, when necessary, with sighted guide/orientation

Benefits

• Becoming one of our Gym Buddies will provide opportunities for those we support to increase their confidence, boost their mood and keep fit. 
• Training and ongoing support from SeeAbility staff.
• The chance to develop new skills in accessible communication and inclusive practice.
• Being part of a warm, welcoming community that values every individual.
• Reimbursement of reasonable travel expenses.
• This is a fantastic opportunity to give something positive back to society and have a direct impact on people’s lives.
• Being a Gym Buddy is a great way to get out and about, exercise, and help others.

Registered as The Royal School for the Blind, SeeAbility is one of the oldest disability charities in the UK. This year we are celebrating our 225th anniversary, having pioneered specialist support across multiple generations since 1799!

We specialise in supporting people who have learning disabilities, autism, complex needs, who may also have sight loss. Our support ranges from providing person-centred support across our many supported-living and residential care provisions. Furthermore, we provide specialist eye-care services to children and adults alike and assists people to find paid employment for the very first time.

SeeAbility provides the resources and expertise that make this possible, we support people to live ambitious lives and achieve things they never thought possible.