IMPACT
DOING OUR BIT TO MAKE THINGS
A LITTLE LESS SH*T.
We started The Alternative because we felt something new was needed, but also as a response to the current climate.
With the way things are right now (gestures broadly at everything) it is becoming harder for the majority of people, whoever they are, to prioritise their health, enjoy their life and sometimes - just get through each day.
Let alone if you’re part of a marginalised group.
In response we create safe spaces, deliver affirmative services and challenge outdated ideas and harmful narratives. We also commit to being as socially conscious as we can.
We’re not perfect at it, nobody is and we can’t fix the systemic issues.
But we try to do our bit where possible, work in line with our values and take our mission further than the studio.
Here’s how we do it.
PAYING IT FORWARD
We offer free weekly boxing classes to trans & non-binary people, as part of Not A Phase’s Misfits initiative. These sessions are ran by our Co-Founder, Rae. You can book your place here.
Rae also delivers free fitness and wellbeing sessions for over 50s, through The LGBT Foundation’s Pride In Ageing scheme, find out more here.
In addition to this, Rae mentors LGBTQ+ young people at The Proud Trust.
Our Co-Founder, Paige also holds a voluntary position on the leadership team for Proud Changemakers - the charity sector and civil society’s LGBTQ+ organisation. Proud Changemakers host a podcast to amplify diverse LGBTQ+ voices and campaign on issues for equality.
We also run a Supportive Wellbeing Scheme, scroll to learn more about it.
DROP-IN INJURY CLINIC
You shouldn’t have to chose between being in pain & getting fit.
Living with injuries or a debilitating condition really can and does stand as a barrier to access to fitness for some people, and it sucks. But that’s not the end of the road.
These clinics are an opportunity for Rae to help you better understand how to to exercise without bringing on pain.
It’s completely free, and a space to ask questions, get information and be signposted where needed.
CONCIOUS PURCHASING
From graphic design to DIY contractors - the people we worked with to build The Alternative came from small family-run businesses, identify as LGBTQ+ and/or are people from the global majority.
When it comes to things like marketing materials, uniform and the artwork we put up in our space, we prioritise buying from socially and environmentally conscious small businesses.
We love working with organisations and individuals who are doing their bit and always put our values at the heart of the decisions we make to pay for products, and services.
SUPPORTIVE WELLBEING SCHEME
4 SESSIONS OF 121 SUPPORT
There are a lot of barriers to health and fitness and we know cost can be a major one.
We dedicate four weeks of 1-2-1 coaching for free to individuals who would really benefit from Personal Training, but could otherwise not afford it.
Spaces are currently reserved for people from the LGBTQ+ community.
Successful applicants get a 1 hour session per week with our Head Coach, Rae, as well as a bespoke programme by the end of the 4 weeks - that is tailored to their specific needs and circumstances.
There is often a waitlist for this service, and priority is given to those on no/low income including zero hours contracts, single parents and people from the global majority.
