PODCAST

Taking A Detour

Gym & Recovery Zone

A purpose-built, allied-health-led space designed for people of all abilities. Featuring accessible equipment, a sensory-friendly environment, and evidence-based training, our Gym & Recovery Zone supports disability, neurological conditions, trauma recovery, sports performance, and general wellbeing. With qualified Exercise Scientists and allied health professionals on site, this is more than a gym, it’s a safe, inclusive place to move, recover, and feel supported.

 

Welcome to The Next Step Gym & Recovery Zone

The Next Step Recovery & Wellness Centre proudly offers a purpose-built, allied-health-led Gym & Recovery Zone designed for people of all abilities. Our space combines accessible equipment, sensory-friendly design, and evidence-based training to ensure everyone feels safe, supported, and empowered.
This is more than a gym.

It is a welcoming, inclusive environment designed for disability, trauma recovery, neurological conditions, sports performance, and general wellness — all supported by qualified Exercise Scientists and allied health professionals.

What Makes Us Different

Allied Health–Led Environment

Our gym is staffed by degree-qualified Exercise Scientists, EPs, and allied health professionals. This ensures every visitor receives guidance that is safe, clinically informed, and tailored to their goals.

Built for All Abilities

Accessibility is embedded into every detail of our facility.

This includes:

  • Wheelchair-accessible equipment and pathways
  • Adaptive options such as straps, supports, and modified setups
  • Quiet, open spaces suitable for mobility aids
  • A sensory-aware environment that feels calm, safe, and predictable

Sensory-Friendly Training Environment

The Next Step Gym is a sanctuary for anyone who prefers or requires a sensory-friendly space.

This includes:

  • Reduced noise compared to mainstream gyms
  • Lower visual and environmental overstimulation
  • Gentle lighting and a controlled atmosphere
  • Staff trained in supporting neurodivergent clients

Our sensory-friendly approach makes the space ideal for:

  • Youth athletes who require calm, focused training and recovery
  • Adults who feel overwhelmed in traditional gym settings
  • People managing anxiety, PTSD, trauma, or sensory sensitivities
  • Neurodivergent individuals, including those with ADHD, autism, or sensory processing challenges

LGBTQ+ Friendly, Safe and Supportive

The Next Step is an openly inclusive space where every person is respected and welcomed.

We actively celebrate diversity and maintain a zero-tolerance policy for discrimination.

Our community includes and supports LGBTQ+ youth and adults who seek a safe, affirming space to move, grow, and recover.

Community-Focused and Intimate

We are intentionally not a large commercial gym.

Our environment is smaller, more personal, and built around trust, safety, and connection.

This helps clients feel grounded, comfortable, and part of a community.

The Recovery Zone

Our Recovery Zone includes:

Infrared Sauna with Colour Therapy

Supports:

  • Muscle relaxation
  • Circulation improvement
  • Nervous system regulation
  • Pain and stiffness relief
  • Mood support through colour therapy
  • Optional aromatherapy for a calming sensory experience

Ice Bath (Cold Immersion Therapy)

Ideal for:

  • Inflammation reduction
  • Post-exercise recovery
  • Circulation enhancement
  • Mental resilience building
  • Supporting sensory and emotional regulation for some clients

Compression Therapy

Helps with:

  • Swelling and fluid management
  • Lymphatic support
  • Muscle recovery
  • Leg mobility and comfort

Membership Options

Performance Membership

$299/month

  • Unlimited Gym Access
  • Unlimited Recovery Zone Access
  • 12-week personalised exercise program
  • Allied health support

Recovery & Gym Membership

$179/month

  • Unlimited Gym Access
  • Unlimited Recovery Zone Access
  • Allied health guidance and support

Gym-Only Membership

$99/month

  • Unlimited Gym Access
  • Inclusive, sensory-aware, allied health–led environment

TAC Recovery Membership

TAC Recovery Gym Program

$470 for 3 months

Includes:

  • Unlimited Gym Access
  • Individualised program
  • Midpoint and end-of-program reviews
  • Functional progress reports
  • Full accessibility supports

Meets TAC’s Gym/Swim Policy requirements.

Casual (Pay As You Go)

  • Gym Access – $20
  • Sauna – $25
  • Ice Bath – $25
  • Sauna + Ice Bath – $45
  • Compression Therapy – $30

Yoga & Wellness Studio Hire

Our accessible studio is available for yoga, meditation, workshops, and wellness events.
Perfect for:

  • Inclusive classes
  • Allied health–led programs
  • Mindfulness sessions
  • Youth wellness programs

Who This Space Is For

The Next Step Gym & Recovery Zone is ideal for:

  • People with spinal cord injuries
  • People with neurological conditions
  • TAC clients recovering after transport accidents
  • NDIS participants
  • Individuals with chronic pain or fatigue
  • Neurodivergent individuals seeking sensory-friendly exercise
  • LGBTQ+ community members seeking a safe and affirming space
  • Adults wanting a calm, guided training environment
  • Youth athletes needing structured training and recovery
  • Anyone who wants a supportive, inclusive approach to wellness

Why Choose The Next Step

We support the whole person — body, mind, and spirit.
Our approach blends movement, recovery, accessibility, education, and empowerment.
This is a space where every person can grow, heal, and find their next step toward wellbeing.

Download our application pack

At The Next Step Recovery and Wellness Centre in Melbourne, our mission is to provide tailored programs and services for athletes recovering from spinal cord injuries and neurological conditions. Our Athlete Scholarship Program secures generous funding for athletes without financial support.