the not so typical fitness podcast
Welcome to not so typical fitness, the podcast that breaks down barriers in health and fitness for neurodivergent minds. Hosted by Rhiannon Cooper; a qualified AuDHD (autistic ADHD) personal trainer, advocate, and lifelong misfit in the fitness industry, this solo podcast dives deep into the realities of navigating fitness as a late diagnosed autistic and ADHD woman.
From personal struggles to industry insights, Rhiannon shares her journey of weight loss, gym anxiety, and making fitness work for you, not against you. No toxic hustle culture, no shame; just honest conversations, practical advice, and a whole lot of “I wish someone had told me this sooner” moments.
If you've ever felt like the gym wasn’t built for you, like workouts should come with a user manual, or like traditional fitness advice just doesn’t fit, you’re in the right place.
the not so typical fitness podcast
006: It's Executive Dysfunction VS Fitness
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What if the hardest part of going to the gym isn't the workout itself? In this episode, Rhiannon Cooper shares how executive dysfunction creates unexpected barriers to fitness that most people never consider.
As someone diagnosed with autism and ADHD, Rhiannon reveals how seemingly simple tasks like showering can become major obstacles—and why these challenges have nothing to do with laziness or lack of motivation. Learn how executive function impacts everything from remembering gym clothes to the mental exhaustion of transitioning between environments.
Plus, discover five practical strategies to work WITH your brain rather than against it:
- Pre-packing your gym bag
- Setting super low pressure goals
- Creating flexible routines
- Using visual cues and reminders
- Rewarding behaviour, not just results
Whether you're neurodivergent or just curious about executive function, this episode offers genuine insights and practical solutions for making fitness more accessible.
--- Hi, I'm Rhiannon a qualified Personal Trainer with autism and ADHD. I'm breaking down barriers in the fitness industry for anyone who feels that they don't belong. I've here to tell you that you do.
Join the Not So Typical Fitness Community to get access to all resources, guides and chat to likeminded neurodivergent people wanting to prioritise their health too: https://community.notsotypicalfitness.co.uk/invitation?code=89FCE4
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