Overview
Our work with the LGBTQ+ community at LSE is developed in consultation with the LGBTQ+ Part-Time Officer to ensure initiatives are meaningful and responsive. Recent projects have included LGBTQ+ Gym Hours, delivered in collaboration with Pecs Education, and active engagement with BUCS (British Universities & Colleges Sport) to improve provision for trans-female students in competitive sport. We have also worked to make national governing body trans inclusion policies more accessible and easier to understand.
Overall, our aim is to ensure that sport and physical activity on campus are open and accessible to every student. By reducing barriers, sharing clear information, and creating tailored opportunities, we strive to empower students to participate in ways that reflect their interests — not limited by obstacles to inclusion.
LGBTQ+ Gym Hours
in collaboration with Pecs Education
LGBTQ+ Gym Sessions
These sessions are free and open to all students, with no sign-up required and no data collected. They are designed as a safe and welcoming space to connect with peers and exercise in peace, supported by trained personal trainers from Pecs Education.
Pecs Education is a trans masculine and non-binary strength and conditioning group with specialist expertise in creating safe training spaces for trans people, including those building strength pre- or post-top surgery.
Students can choose to complete their own individual workouts with staff available for guidance, or take part in a structured group session led by a Pecs Education instructor. Group sessions begin with introductions, followed by a demonstration of the exercises, before breaking into small groups to rotate through equipment and complete the workout together.
For any questions, please contact Dan Smith (Physical Activity and Wellbeing Coordinator) at d.smith15@lse.ac.uk, or reach out to your elected LGBTQ+ Part-Time Officer via social media.
Sessions are promoted on LSESU Active Instagram, keep an eye out!
NGB Transgender inclusion policies in sport
At LSESU, we are committed to ensuring that sport remains a welcoming and inclusive space for all students. Every student is encouraged and supported to take part in training, recreational activity, and the social communities that clubs provide. Sport is for everyone, and you are always welcome to get involved.
When it comes to competitive sport, some restrictions may apply depending on the policies set by the national governing body (NGB) for each sport. These policies determine how trans athletes are currently eligible to compete in official competitions. To provide clarity, the following grid summarises the latest policies for each sport at LSE.
Link to NGB overview.
It’s important to note that these regulations only apply to competition. Training sessions, social sport, and community activities remain open to all students, regardless of gender identity or expression.
We recognise that navigating these policies can sometimes feel overwhelming or discouraging, and we want to assure you that you are not alone. The Students’ Union is here to listen, to provide support, and to explore the available options with you.
If you have any questions, concerns, or would like to discuss your specific situation, please contact Dan Smith (Physical Activity and Wellbeing Coordinator) at d.smith15@lse.ac.uk. All conversations will be treated with respect, sensitivity, and confidentiality.
WHAT ELSE?
We will be running other various initiatives throughout the year. Keep an eye out for everything we run and how you can get involved!