Exploring a Fitness- Based Intervention with an Adolescent with Autism: A Pilot Case Study

Authors

  • Christianna Blanchard-Alworth Old Dominion University

Abstract

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurological condition characterized by socialization, communication, sensory processing, and motor function challenges. As such, adolescents with ASD may face health risks due to sedentary lifestyles, limited opportunities for non-academic interactions with peers, and restricted access to community-based fitness resources. Consequently, there is a critical need to investigate the impact of fitness programs tailored for individuals with ASD to identify changes in physical fitness and improvements in social skills. This article outlines the implementation of a study utilizing the Autism Fitness ProgramTM, specifically designed for individuals with autism. Michelle (pseudonym), a 14-year-old adolescent with ASD participated in an 8-week Autism Fitness ProgramTM alongside Bruce (pseudonym), a peer without ASD. The study aimed to 1) determine the rate of spontaneous initiations and responses of the participant with autism to peer and coach during Autism FitnessTM workout sessions and 2) examine the pre and post intervention exercise performance of the participant with ASD.

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Published

2024-11-25

Issue

Vol. 38 No. 4 (2024)

Section

Feature Articles

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