For some people, going to the gym is all about gaining strength, fitness and maybe even a few muscles. For others, it’s about routine, self-confidence and the boost you get from moving your body.
For best mates and TikTok stars Bill and Kyran, otherwise known as The Brother Boys, it’s all of the above and mostly about having a good time.
Bill and Kyran might be opposites in many ways. Bill is a person with Down syndrome and works at a supermarket in NSW, while Kyran is a Barkindji man and landscaper based in Mildura. Kyran is married to Bill’s sister, so they’re brothers-in-law, but they were friends first.
The pair met 10 years ago. Then, during lockdown when they were flatmates, a video Kyran published on social media went viral and The Brother Boys was born.
Fast forward five years and their videos have racked up more than 50 million TikTok views.
Audiences love their joyful and positive take on friendship, dance moves, gym sessions and life with disability.
According to Kyran: “We use humour to entertain and at the same time normalise our differences. Everyone in the world is different from each other. Regardless of how different Bill and I are, we’re great mates and we have a good time.”
Through the Mable platform, Bill connects with support workers who help him get to the gym, keep motivated and stay consistent with his workouts, all while keeping it fun and social.
“I like to look after myself, which means keeping fit and looking good,” says Bill. “I love to build my strength and it makes me feel good.”
Bill might be a self-described “independent man,” but he’s also quick to point out how much he values support that fits into his lifestyle.
“I’m a proud independent Down syndrome man,” he says. “I love having someone join me when I go out because I can’t drive a car. A support worker helps me get to the gym so I can work out.”
Bill’s support workers also help motivate him to try new things at the gym, like trying new machines or equipment.
Bill says. “I like to learn and try new things. Once I learn, I like to do it myself!”
Whether you’re going for health, routine or fun, hitting the gym is a great way to boost confidence, build strength and enjoy time to yourself or with a mate.
Here are a few ways to make going to the gym more accessible, enjoyable and empowering.
It can be intimidating walking into a gym. Sometimes it feels like everyone else knows what they’re doing but you don’t. Bill’s advice is simple: “Don’t worry what anyone else is doing… just be yourself.”
Bill’s tips: Pick a playlist you love, get your headphones on, wear something comfy and show up for yourself, that’s what matters most.
Safe use of gym equipment is obviously a consideration, especially if you’re trying something new. A support worker can help you with equipment set up.
“Use the equipment safely or ask someone for help, so you can get strong like me!”
Bill and Kyran are all about the joy of movement. Whether it’s lifting weights or dancing between sets, they say having fun makes it easier to stay motivated and keep going back.
“Have fun, don’t be too serious,” Bill recommends. “Smiles are good, too!”
You might even find inclusive gym programs or personal trainers who specialise in disability-friendly sessions, like the ones listed on EveryBodyFit.
A support worker can help make gym visits part of your regular week. They can assist with transport, help you warm up and cool down and be there for a chat and some company.
For Bill, the gym is just one part of a life filled with friendship, goals and connection. “Going to the gym makes me feel good,” says Bill. “I love the helpful staff and their friendly smiles. I love building my strength.”
Moving your body can help build strength, confidence and energy, but it’s also about feeling good mentally and emotionally. For many people living with disability, having support to get to the gym, or stick with a routine can make a huge difference.
On the Mable platform, you can find the right independent support worker to help you reach your goals, your way. Whether that’s lifting weights, walking on a treadmill, or just showing up and having a go.
“I’m an independent man!” says Bill. “And I like to keep fit and feel strong.”
Yep, I’m able to hit the gym with a support worker, a good playlist and a few moves of my own.
Find an independent support worker on Mable today.
Mable’s Can-do Guides are created in collaboration with people with disabilities. Content in these guides is general in nature, based on the experience of those interviewed, and may not be applicable to all.
Support workers are encouraged to visit the Mable support worker insurance page, which includes the Product Disclosure Statement (‘PDS’), before providing support services in a gym. While transporting clients to the gym and observing their workout is likely to be covered, actively assisting or providing guidance to the client may be construed as ‘personal training’ and may fall outside of the scope of Mable support worker insurance.
