The idea for this study was a bit happenstance, but is also personal. Unfortunately many times we don't realize the need for something until the moment we are uncomfortably caught off guard.  After working with a transgender patron, a trainer of mine approached me about confusion on what standards, protocols and procedures should have been used with the transgender individual  who was in transition.  I honestly had no answer, which made me realize as both a trans individual and fitness professional, the need for a greater understanding of not only myself, but also how to proceed in such situations in order to provide better customer service for all clients and valuable information for all individuals, no matter their gender. 

​

This is a national study seeking to explore:

• Current commercial gym/fitness center policies in respect to the transgender community

• Experiences fitness professionals and gym staff have had with the transgender community

• Current knowledge base of fitness professionals and gym staff in understanding the transgender community

• Experiences of the transgender community with commercial gyms/fitness center

• Understanding perceived barriers to commercial gyms/fitness centers of the transgender community