She Strengthens

Breaking Down Barriers in Fitness

For individuals on the autism spectrum, the gym can be a daunting and overwhelming environment. The harsh fluorescent lights, loud noises, and crowded spaces can trigger sensory overload, making it difficult to focus on a workout. As someone who has experienced this firsthand, I know how debilitating it can be.

A Lifetime of Challenges

Growing up, I struggled with motor skills, a common challenge for children on the autism spectrum. My brief athletic career was marked by setbacks, from breaking my arm while horseback riding to passing out on the first day of high school rowing team camp due to the heat. These experiences left me feeling defeated and hesitant to join sports teams or fitness classes.

A Turning Point

However, at 22, I realized the importance of physical activity for my overall well-being. With the encouragement of a friend, I began working out at the campus gym. But the experience was overwhelming, with the intense lighting, crowds of sweaty students, and vast array of equipment. It was then that I realized the fitness industry often excludes people with disabilities, perpetuating a culture of ableism.

The Ramifications of Exclusion

The “picked last” PE culture can have lasting effects, leading individuals with disabilities to exclude themselves from fitness activities or feeling unwelcome. This perpetuates a harmful narrative that people with disabilities are broken, weaker, or less capable. It’s time to shift the narrative and make fitness inclusive and accessible to all.

Inclusive Fitness Initiatives

Mark Fleming, an autistic entrepreneur and personal trainer, has created Puzzle Piece Fitness LLC, a gym offering personalized training to individuals on the autism spectrum. His approach acknowledges the unique challenges faced by autistic individuals and provides a safe and welcoming environment. Similarly, Mikhaela Ackerman, an autistic yoga instructor, creates sensory-friendly classes that cater to neurodiverse students.

The Importance of Community

While working out at home can be convenient, it’s essential to have a community that supports and motivates us. Fitness studios and gyms should strive to create an inclusive environment that welcomes individuals of all abilities. By doing so, we can break down barriers and make fitness accessible to everyone.

A Call to Action

It’s time for the fitness industry to move beyond tokenistic gestures and segregated adaptive fitness initiatives. We need studios and gyms led by disabled individuals, who understand the unique challenges faced by their clients. By creating inclusive spaces, we can empower individuals with disabilities to take control of their fitness journey and promote a culture of acceptance and belonging.