Esmée van Loon

Boxing Against the Binary

“Every body can exercise and move,” a member of Rotterdam-based Queer Gym explains; however, not every person feels comfortable in typical sports environments that often hone in on heteronormative beauty ideals and fitness aspirations. That’s why Romy started Queer Gym, a safe space in Rotterdam, where queer folk can comfortably enjoy sports and exercise. Through intimate conversations with members, trainers and owner Romy, Esmée van Loon’s endearing portrait reveals a true physical need for spaces where queer communities can discover their own strengths.