Launched by Better World Shelter, a Chennai-based NGO, in collaboration with the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC), the 500 sq. ft. gym is open from 6am to 8pm daily and is entirely free of cost. From the outside, it may resemble any other modest neighbourhood gym. But inside, it’s a space carefully crafted to meet the needs of those often excluded from traditional fitness centres.
Watch the story: Tamil Nadu’s first exclusive gym for differently-abled women opens in Chennai
“This isn’t just about adding a ramp or widening a doorway,” says Matilda Fonceca, manager at shelter. “We spoke to para-athletes and women with disabilities to understand what they really needed in a workout space. That shaped every aspect—from the type of flooring and grip of the handles to the layout that allows smooth wheelchair movement.”
The gym features specially designed strength-training and cardio machines with adjustable settings, non-slip flooring, and wide pathways for ease of navigation. Trainers have also been sensitised to work closely with individuals with diverse physical needs.
For many of the gym-goers, this facility has brought a new sense of independence and routine. “Most gyms aren’t built for someone like me,” says one young woman, stretching after her session. “Here, I don’t feel like an outsider. I feel seen.” Many differently-abled residents of the shelter conveyed the same.
In fact, several of them now plan to train for the Asian Games, para-Olympics and national level tournaments for Basketball, Discus Throw and Weightlifting. “The gym has opened doors for us. With the equipment and training provided here, I am hoping to qualify for para-powerlifting in the Asian Para Games 2026,” said Arulmoli, on of the shelter’s residents.
According to the K. J. Praveen Kumar, the Regional Deputy Commissioner (Central) of the GCC, the response has been overwhelming, with many calling for more such spaces across the city. “This is just the beginning. We’re working towards making inclusive design a norm in public infrastructure, not a special case. The Chief Minister has announced that three more such gyms will be opened in Chennai. We are yet to identify the spots but plans are underway.”
