The Queer Gym: How Coach Nat Created an LGBTQ Fitness Haven

The Queer Gym is an online gym owned by Nathalie Huerta, or Coach Nat as her clients know her, that works to create an inclusive space for everyone looking to make healthier lifestyle choices - regardless of how you identify.

COVID had a big impact on The Queer Gym’s operations with the pandemic leading to the closure of the gym’s physical location. With that came a new era of opportunity for Huerta and the mission of The Queer Gym: to create an even more inclusive method of delivering high-quality workouts, education, and offerings fully online.

The Queer Gym was launched in 2010 in Oakland, California, as an inclusive, safe place to work out that included gender-neutral locker rooms and facilities. Huerta previously worked as a fitness coach in other gyms only to notice that once she cut her hair to be less “feminine presenting” (in her words) that she experienced a significant change in how she was treated.

Huerta’s work helps transform and challenge gender norms that are often harmful for the queer community. From making an active effort to educate herself on everything from diet recommendations for those undergoing hormone therapy to creating entirely new class offerings to fit every kind of schedule, Huerta is achieving success by being the epitome of adapting with the times while caring for her customers.

Regular classes offered include the cleverly named Bicep-tuals class for strength training, Anti-Fascist Fight Club for cardio and kickboxing, and so much more. Social events also supplement the community giving The Queer Gym clients that extra sense of connection, making it truly an experience for everyone.

To find out more about The Queer Gym, visit their website here.