The strategies you implement with autistic participants will set you up to be a better trainer and coach for all
For example , they might refuse to enter the gym because the music volume is more than they can cope with , or they may appear uncooperative because they are unable to tolerate a hands-on approach to coaching .
I ’ ve encountered people that refuse to wear team bibs with tiny holes in them because they say the material feels like a cheese grater on their skin .
There are some general strategies that can be implemented to help autistic people feel included in physical activity . However , it is important to remember that autism affects different people in different ways and to varying degrees , so these strategies should be taken as a general guide only .
Communication
• Autistic people often find it difficult to follow group instructions , so it may help to give them instructions individually . Say their name first to catch their attention and let them know that you are speaking to them .
• Communicate safety rules clearly and in a way that the participant understands before the start of an activity . Make copies of the instructions and keep them on display .
The strategies you implement with autistic participants will set you up to be a better trainer and coach for all
• Break up directions into small chunks and , wherever possible , support these with pictures , gestures or written cues . Visual timetables can be useful to show the order of events in a team activity or a small group circuit workout , for example .
• Be aware that figurative language , idioms and metaphors may be confusing to someone on the autism spectrum , so try to always state exactly what you mean .
• When asking questions , speak slowly and clearly and give the person plenty of time to process what you are saying before expecting a response .
Adaptations
Audit the environment and your practice to ensure that it will not present too many difficulties for people with sensory sensitivities . Consider sound , volume , lights and other stimulatory factors .
Be aware that some clients may have difficulties with balance and coordination , which will make some activities difficult for them . Help them by breaking the activity down into smaller steps and allowing time to practice .
Anticipating change
If you plan to move on to a new activity , take steps to alleviate the anxiety that may be experienced when confronted with change . This might involve showing the client around an unfamiliar venue or talking them through the new routine , backed up with visuals if appropriate .
The unique challenges of training and coaching people with autism should be embraced by trainers looking to develop their expertise and evolve their training style . Rather than simply putting the prospect of working with this demographic in the ‘ too hard ’ basket , you should consider the fact that the strategies you implement with autistic participants will set you up to be a better trainer and coach for all of your clients , regardless of ability . Without question , personal trainers can learn a lot from their autistic participants .
Amy Webster is a personal trainer at Arcadium HQ in QLD . She has worked as a coordinator for the National Autistic Society ’ s ( NAS ) Active for Autism project in the UK and with the Sporting Wheelies and Disabled Association in Australia , delivering their Inclusive Sport and Physical Activity workshops . amy @ arcadiumhq . com . au
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