The Benefits of Fitness for Autistic Children

Exercise is a key ingredient for a healthy and happy life, but its benefits extend even further for autistic individuals. 

This week on the Autism Weekly Podcast, host Jeffrey Skibitsky sat down with renowned fitness expert David Geslak, also known as Coach Dave. The conversation explored how tailored exercise programs can empower autistic individuals, improve self-regulation, and help build confidence. David highlighted the Autism Exercise Specialist Certificate, a training opportunity revolutionizing how professionals engage with the autism community through fitness. 

The Many Benefits of Exercise for Autistic Individuals 

Exercise is often seen as a way to build strength or burn calories, but for autistic children, it offers so much more. Research shows that just 10 to 15 minutes of low- to moderate-intensity exercise can lead to significant behavioral and cognitive improvements. Here are some specific benefits highlighted during the interview: 

• Behavioral Improvements and Emotional Regulation 

Exercise helps autistic children regulate emotions by promoting balance in sensory systems. If your child struggles with hyperactivity or difficulty focusing, incorporating movement into their routine can have a calming and centering effect. For instance, short bursts of activity can help children settle into tasks like homework or therapy sessions.  

David noted that even something as simple as stretching can improve on-task behavior, decrease self-stimulatory actions, and create an overall sense of calm. 

• Cognitive Growth 

Movement has a powerful impact on cognition. Activities such as skipping or hopping not only enhance motor skills but also improve reading readiness and other learning outcomes. This is particularly crucial in helping autistic children bridge skill gaps that might affect academic performance. 

David’s early experiences as a paraeducator, as well as his work training fitness professionals, showed him that physical movement stimulates neurological pathways that are essential for boosting focus, language development, and proactive problem-solving. 

• Social Connections and Confidence 

Engaging in fitness activities builds confidence and encourages social interactions. For many autistic children, traditional team sports might feel overwhelming due to their unstructured nature. Tailored one-on-one or small-group exercise programs can provide a structured yet engaging setting for children to bond with peers while learning vital social skills. 

David shared inspiring examples of breakthroughs where children who once hesitated to participate made significant strides simply by following visual exercise guides or engaging in sensory-friendly environments. 

The Importance of Tailored Fitness Programs 

One-size-fits-all doesn’t work when it comes to fitness for autistic individuals. Understanding how your child learns and what motivates them is key to building an effective exercise routine. 

The Autism Exercise Specialist Certificate, developed by David Geslak in partnership with the American College of Sports Medicine, equips professionals with the tools to provide autism-friendly fitness experiences. This certification emphasizes strategies like using visual supports, adapting routines to individual needs, and fostering environments where parents feel confident their children will thrive. 

David emphasized, “Teaching exercise is 75% understanding autism and 25% understanding exercise.” Fitness professionals trained through this program are prepared to apply evidence-based methods to promote success rather than frustration. 

Motivation is Key 

One of the core principles in training is identifying what motivates your child. Does your child love music? Play their favorite songs while doing jumping jacks or hula hooping. Does your child have a natural interest in animals? Try incorporating fun, imaginative motions like galloping like a horse or stretching like a cat. 

By approaching fitness as a creative outlet, parents can help their children stay engaged and excited about movement. 

Actionable Tips to Introduce Exercise into Your Child’s Routine 

Getting started with fitness for your autistic child doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. Here are some family-friendly, actionable tips inspired by the podcast episode: 

You don’t need to invest in expensive equipment or sign up for professional gym memberships right away. Begin with simple at-home activities such as: 

• Obstacle courses: Build a mini course with pillows, chairs, or hula hoops for your child to crawl through or jump over.  

• Nature walks: Go for short walks in a park or peaceful neighborhood, allowing your child to explore and connect with outdoor stimuli. 

• Dance sessions: Play their favorite tunes and have a quick dance-off in the living room.  

Short sessions as brief as 10 to 15 minutes of exercise each day can make a noticeable difference. 

Visual tools can help simplify instructions. Use cards with colorful images to demonstrate exercises visually. This method reduces verbal overwhelm while providing a clear point of focus. 

Example: 

• Create a visual cue card for a jumping jack showing a stick figure mid-exercise. 

• Pair each move with simple written or spoken directions, such as, “Jump and clap your hands.”

Children are more likely to stick to routines when they see others participating. Turn exercise time into a family bonding activity. Whether it’s yoga stretches, dancing, or a group bike ride, showing enthusiasm will encourage your child to join in. 

Reinforce successes, no matter how small. Whether it’s completing two minutes of stretching or learning to skip for the first time, celebrate the achievement with positive affirmation or a small reward. This builds confidence and increases your child’s willingness to try new movements. 

Final Thoughts 

Exercise offers countless benefits for autistic individuals, from improving emotional regulation to boosting confidence and social skills. Starting small, using evidence-based strategies, and tapping into your child’s motivators can make fitness a positive and rewarding experience for the whole family. With resources like the Autism Exercise Specialist Certificate, professionals are better equipped than ever to help children thrive. 

If you’re looking for ways to incorporate fitness into your child’s life, remember that even 10 minutes a day can foster lasting benefits. By taking this step, you’re not only creating a foundation for physical health but also empowering your child to grow emotionally, socially, and cognitively.  

Keep listening to the Autism Weekly Podcast for more valuable insights and strategies for empowering the autism community.