What is a trauma-informed approach to physical activity?
A trauma-informed approach means understanding how trauma affects people and making sure services respond in ways that feel safe and respectful.
Instead of asking “What’s wrong with you?”, a trauma-informed approach would ask “What happened to you?”. This shift helps reduce blame and shame from people who have experienced trauma.
Trauma-informed physical activity (TIPA) means designing and delivering exercise in a way that understands trauma and its effects. It’s about creating spaces that feel safe and supportive.
We made this guidance with:
- People with lived experience of trauma and mental health difficulties
- Physical activity deliverers (coaches, trainers)
- Clinical psychologists
- Policy makers and community leaders
Trauma-informed physical activity resources
Trauma-informed physical activity (TIPA) isn’t just about exercise – it’s about creating spaces where people feel safe, respected and in control.
Our research shows that when programmes embed these elements, they can help people reconnect with their bodies, build confidence and find belonging.
Check out our resources below:
Case study - The Running Charity
The Running Charity works with young adults (mostly 18–30) facing homelessness and other tough life situations. Coaches included former beneficiaries who returned as staff – bringing real credibility and trust.
They offered:
- Running and flexible 1-1 sessions
- Choice and voice throughout
- Relatable coaches
What changed for participants?
- Belonging and trust grew
- Autonomy was restored
- Routine and structure formed
Trauma-informed in practice - what made the difference?
- Meet people where they are
- Use consistent delivery
- Prioritise choice
- Build trust through shared experience
Take aways for deliverers:
- Put choice into every session
- Keep routines visible
- Recruit or partner with relatable staff
For Sharon, movement became a way to rebuild confidence and rediscover hope. It wasn’t about competition or pushing limits – it was about choice, safety, and feeling seen. Physical activity gave her space to heal, one session at a time.”
Acknowledgments
Special thanks to ASICS (who paid for the research) and Dr Akusile Makawa, Dr Florence Kinnafick and Dr Gemma Witcomb at Loughborough University (who did the research).
ASICS was founded more than 70 years ago with the belief that sport had a benefit not just on the body, but also on the mind. It’s why ASICS is called ASICS. It’s an acronym for the Latin “Anima Sana in Corpore Sano” or “a Sound Mind in a Sound Body”. Together we aim to support more people to improve their mental health by becoming physically active.
