New ‘all abilities’ gym opens to fill a gap

At the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, Laura Di Iulio’s regular gym closed down and she had nowhere to go to keep working out - a crucial part of her treatment for Multiple Sclerosis.

Frustrated by what she felt was a lack of wheelchair accessible gyms in Geelong, Laura and her partner Tony Rankin decided to start their own.

Now, almost two years later, the couple’s dream of the perfect gym for Laura and anyone who wants to visit an inclusive fitness space is about to become a reality.

DASH, which stands for Disability, Ageing and Specialised Health, will open in February 2022 in Grovedale.

“We wanted to start a gym because we didn’t have access to go to a gym that was specifically able to cope with disability,” Laura said.

“We thought that’s not fair because I really need to work out and exercise, particularly because I’m on new medication and they do say I need to maintain my health and wellbeing.”

The couple used local suppliers and builders to fit out the gym which includes accessible exercise and rehabilitation equipment such as an ergo machine and functional trainer which are both wheelchair-friendly.

“My main focus is leg presses and the ability to do squats because that strengthens the whole leg area, of course a bit of cardio is important too because my hands are pretty much my legs,” Laura said.

A wall climber that allows someone to complete sit and stand exercises, and a hoist are also on their way. And the gym includes a chill out space and multi-purpose consulting suite complete with sensory lighting.

As for Laura, the power of exercise is transformative.

“It’s empowering when I have done a workout, I feel good and I feel strong in myself mentally and physically,” she said.

“I need to keep my mobility - if you don’t use it you lose it.

“When I exercise my leg, I feel lighter and more flexible.”

On gym visits, Laura is also often accompanied by her InLife support worker Tammy Jago, who she describes as “ the best” and “so encouraging”.

Tammy has seen the couple work hard to get the gym up and running.

“They have committed so much to it and to be able to be part of that journey is awesome,” she said.

“I’m just proud to see them have a dream and follow-through.”

Laura’s partner Tony, who has a background in youth work with a focus on mental health, said it was important that everyone, no matter their age or ability, felt like they belonged at DASH.

He said the gym was a family affair with his parents, and he and Laura’s two teenage kids all involved in the set-up.

“Some gyms can be intimidating and loud,” he said.

“We are open to everyone and to people who feel they’re not comfortable in a standard gym.

“The goal is to feel like we’re a community and a family and we all belong.”

As for seeing the gym finally ready to open: “It’s such an achievement and it’s just welcoming and happy,” Laura said.

• DASH Gym is due to open in February. For more information or membership enquiries go to dashgw.com.au or call 03 5200 8173.