At Functional Strength ATX, we use a sliding-scale, donation-based model because we believe strength and fitness should be accessible to everyone in the LGBTQ+ community—regardless of income, background, or circumstance. Too often, queer folks feel excluded from traditional gyms, whether because of financial barriers, cultural expectations, or simply not feeling at home in those spaces. We want to change that.

That means there’s no fixed price for sessions. Some people might not be able to pay anything right now—and that’s okay. Others may choose to give $20, $40, or even $100 per session to support not only their own training, but also to help cover access for someone else in the community. Every contribution is appreciated, but no one is ever pressured or turned away. This is fitness as community care—those who can give more make it possible for those who can’t to still show up, feel supported, and grow stronger.