A recent pilot trial has shown that a gender-affirming, inclusive exercise program can improve the mental health of trans and gender diverse youth by fostering movement and social connections. This study, conducted by Dr. Felicity Austin and Associate Professor Bonnie Furzer from The University of Western Australia and Thriving in Motion, along with Associate Professor Kemi Wright from the University of New South Wales, involved collaboration with the Perth Children’s Hospital Gender Diversity Service and the Telethon Kids Institute Australia.
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The 12-week study focused on trans youth aged 12 to 24 in Western Australia. Dr. Austin, the lead author, noted that this demographic often experiences lower levels of physical activity compared to their cisgender peers, largely due to systemic factors such as exclusion and the gender binary in sports, as well as a lack of psychological safety in gyms and schools.
The trial, published in Health Education and Behavior, aimed to create a welcoming environment where trans youth could feel secure and motivated to participate in physical activity. Twenty participants were recruited, with 18 completing the program.
Sessions were led by accredited exercise physiologists and peer facilitators trained in trauma-informed, gender-affirming practices. The weekly one-hour sessions included cardiovascular, strength, and team-based activities, incorporating inclusivity at all levels—such as using preferred pronouns, allowing participant-led choices, and providing non-gendered programming. Facilities featured all-gender options and covered mirrors.
Participation and retention were remarkably high, with 95 percent engagement and 93 percent of participants reporting high levels of enjoyment. All parents and caregivers expressed satisfaction and indicated they would recommend the program. Associate Professor Wright emphasized the significance of these numbers, considering the challenges faced by this group in accessing mainstream sports.
Results demonstrated slight improvements in physical fitness across various metrics, including strength and aerobic recovery, while the most notable enhancement was in the mental health quality of life component, where participants initially reported lower levels than the general population. Associate Professor Furzer attributed this improvement to the combination of physical activity, social connection, and identity affirmation.
The study confirmed the feasibility and acceptability of gender-affirming exercise programs in both clinical and community settings, advocating for more extensive integration of exercise into gender-affirming healthcare. A larger trial, the multi-site ARCTYC Youth Moves study, is currently underway across Australia.