Sexual assault victim raises funds to start female-only gym where women can 'feel safe' in Milton Keynes

Any woman can use the gym without ‘fear or judgement’ she says
By Sally Murrer
Published 23rd Aug 2023, 17:07 BST
Updated 23rd Aug 2023, 17:26 BST
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A young woman who was the victim of a sexual assault is fulfilling her dream to start a female-only gym in Milton Keynes.

Chantelle Koutsou wants to open a space where all women can feel “safe, comfortable, and empowered” to pursue their fitness goals.

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She has started a fundraising page with the aim on raising £500 towards the cost. And already it has raised more £300 in donations.

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Chantelle and her supporters for the female-only gym in MKChantelle and her supporters for the female-only gym in MK
Chantelle and her supporters for the female-only gym in MK

She said: “I unfortunately was a victim to sexual assault. This was a horrible thing to go through and the support system out there is hard and rare to come by.

“I want to create a female only gym space, so all women can go to my gym/wellness club, without fear or judgement...Being a female in a mixed sex gym can sometimes be intimidating. I want all women to be able to train with confidence.

"By contributing to this initiative, you'll be promoting inclusivity and providing a supportive environment for women to thrive in their fitness journeys.”

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Chantelle said the support within her club community would be huge. “No female should ever have to suffer in silence and I want my space to allow those who have suffered to be able to feel free and safe.

“Each programme and class will be tailored to the female anatomy. Not to mention being able to have educational, physical and mental resources to aid all females, no matter what stage of life you’re in.”

You can view the GoFundMe page here.

Chantelle has listed her aims for the new gym. These include:

  1. I want women to feel sexy and empowered in their own skin.
  2. I want society to embrace diverse definitions of beauty and confidence.
  3. I want women to break free from societal expectations and embrace their unique sensuality.
  4. I want women to reclaim their bodies and celebrate their inherent power and strength.
  5. I want women to feel confident in expressing their desires and owning their sexuality.
  6. I want women to be unapologetically themselves, embracing their authenticity and inner fire.
  7. I want women to know that their worth extends far beyond physical appearance.
  8. I want women to be celebrated for their intelligence, passion, and inner beauty.