Ep 25: Is Diversity in Fitness Really That Important?
Listen on…
Diversity and inclusion. Two incredibly important concepts, but also two words that can cause a lot of emotion, confusion, apprehension and fear of judgement.
As a leader and voice in the Group Fitness space, Will felt it his responsibility to champion diversity and inclusion across the Instructor community, and for you as Instructors, we strongly believe you have an important role to play in championing diversity and inclusion across your classes.
But that doesn’t mean we will always get it right. But rather than not trying at all through fear of missing the mark, how can we approach this subject in a way that acknowledges and respects everyone's differences whilst also being authentic to you and your beliefs?
In today’s podcast, Will tackles this topic with Rodney Morris. Rodney is the founder of MyFitPod and the Workplace Culture Workout, and has been leading voice in the talent, culture and diversity space for a number of years.
Rodney breaks down this sensitive subject in a really great way. Diversity comes in so many forms in Group Fitness - race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, body image.
Keep an open mind whilst listening to this episode and think about how you approach diversity and inclusion within your community - no judgement, fear or worry, just observation because it’s with a learning mindset, that we really can grow as a community together...
Here’s a glance at this episode…
(4:15) Rodney shares about an article he wrote about diversity and inclusion and how he addresses negativity in response to his views
(11:35) How gyms have the ability to bring diverse groups of people together in community
(18:27) Rodney shares why he developed his webinar on diversity and inclusion
(22:35) Rodney and Will talk about the process for cultivating understanding for people who don’t yet embrace conversations about racial injustice
(29:18) Rodney shares why diversity and inclusion initiatives are about values
(32:25) Will asks Rodney to share his perspective on diversity quotas
(37:50) Rodney shares the biggest blinders that are preventing people from achieving authentic diversity initiatives
(44:35) Rodney talks about why this is a time of great abundance for Group Fitness professionals
(45:52) Will asks Rodney to share about his webinar series about Diversity and Inclusion in the Group Fitness Industry
(56:45) The one piece of advice instructors need to move forward in Group Fitness in 2021
Links mentioned in this episode:
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