The Physical

---

Providing 1-1 training, guidance, support and encouragement can assist in reducing these barriers to entry, or at the very least finding practical workarounds to allow children with autism to partake.

Through a method of trial-and-error, finding the right exercises, equipment, environment and rhythm that is aligned to the individual’s preferences, needs and limitations creates the foundations for further development, whilst also expanding their comfort zone. 

With any sport, “practice, practice, practice” is required before one becomes relatively confident and competent to engage in a more pressurised arena. For those facing additional barriers and limitations to enjoyment and success, this harsh reality can be even more important.  

We support individuals through this journey, with the aim of helping them uncover their strengths, provide the encouragement and positive feedback, manage the emotional stress that can come with setbacks or failure, and provide the guidance and expertise to help them achieve their desired goals. 

We focus on three key areas. 

Strengthening & Conditioning involves a number of static or dynamic exercises which focus on improving the overall structure, strength and endurance of the body. It is an important discipline in physical exercise and helps to prevent injury, improve posture, and build mental resilience. 

It can include weightlifting and use of machines in the gym, but more broadly, and perhaps more appropriately it can focus on using one’s own body weight and resistance bands to achieve desired outcomes. Such exercises include as squats, lunges, plank, push-ups, and burpees to name a few. 

Mobility and balance exercises greatly enhances the stability and elasticity of the body & mind. It can involve using one’s own body weight or the use of various equipment such as a Swiss Ball, Kettlebells, boxes and bands. It focuses primarily on using core strength and bringing balance to the parts of the body which may have become misaligned. 

Basic exercises such as standing on one leg with both arms in the air or doing an animal crawl with a swiss ball can be tremendously beneficial in bringing attention to one’s body and increasing spatial awareness. 

Cardiovascular activities are those that ‘get the heart pumping’. Its obvious benefit is its positive effect on the heart, but it also dramatically improves sleep patterns, metabolism rates, and mental wellbeing. Activities can include moderate activities such as ‘marching in the spot’ or hiking, to more intensive activities such as mountain biking, swimming, or running.