Hi, 

I am a certified Personal Trainer and Health Coach for women, living in Southwark, London since 2011. 

Over all these years, I, as a Muslim woman, I have personally experienced the discomfort of working out in a mixed gym due to the pressures of religious and cultural norms. It is extremely challenging for women like me to keep fit and healthy in these environments. I meet such women on a daily basis, in my gym, on the streets, at workplaces, at gatherings and listen to their helpless cries.

According to Sport England, less than 1 in 5 Muslim Women exercise less than once a week. This is a truly alarming figure. Moreover, religious and societal barriers often prevent women from participating in regular exercise (Sport England, Active Lives Survey, 2019). 

This is not just a religious requirement and is thus not limited to only Muslim ladies. There are many non Muslim women who would prefer to workout in a ladies only environment due to their own reasons and requirement.   

Southwark has a growing and vibrant community. But currently, it lacks an exercise space where women, regardless of their cultural background, can feel comfortable and encouraged to focus on their physical health. 

More women-only fitness facilities could make a significant difference in improving these statistics. Not to mention, staying Healthy affects every sphere of our daily living, may it be taking care of our family, work, worship and everything else. Moreover, being unhealthy, suffering from various diseases puts avoidable financial pressures on NHS, our health service providers. These ever rising financial crisis can be greatly reduced by investing in health centres for ladies. 

Indeed, Peckham, our community, is diverse. I believe the establishment of a women-only gym or fitness center will not only respect and uphold the cultural sensitivities of many of our residents but also provide a safe and motivating environment for all women to work on their fitness and health goals. 

Let's support the enhancement of our neighbourhood by making exercise easily accessible, enjoyable and sustainable to all ladies regardless of their beliefs.

This starts with one signature from you. Please sign this petition to establish a Ladies Only Gym or Fitness Centre in Peckham.