Austism, Physiscal Activity and Sports.

 

Our society is currently experiencing a decrease in healthy behaviors. Sedentarism is overwhelmingly taking our lives, without distinction for age, gender or health condition. But instead of looking at all the negative consequences, let’s better appreciate the benefits of a more active lifestyle, especially for children living with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or Autism  -as it is better known-, is a neurodevelopmental disorder, according to the classification of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSMV-5), where a range of characteristics  may or may not be present in each individual;  including   limitations in social interactions, communication and stereotyped and repetitive behaviors, variations in language development, learning pace  and the acquisition of motor skills.

The promotion of physical activity and sport practice in children within the Autism Spectrum has been studied in the last two decades, showing to improve stereotyped behaviors, as well as social interactions and communication. However, certain factors associated to the condition -such as alterations in motor skills, muscle weakness (hypotonia), joint laxity and coordination, deficiencies in the vestibular system (related to balance and spatial control), and the proprioceptive system- can become obstacles in the practice of physical activity. Fortunately, with patience, persistence and adequate adaptations, sport can help to improve all these aspects, if instruction is provided with the highest professionalism.

When choosing a sport or activity for our children, it is important to pay attention to their passions and preferences; and not our own. Children with Autism tend to have restricted interests, leading to long hours focused on a single, solitary activity. However, that great motivation can be positively used if we choose an appropriate sport for them. Learning must be an enjoyable process. Above all, they are kids who want to play and have fun.

Today, almost any sport could be adapted to different skills and level of development; finding people with ASD in basketball, swimming, athletics, fencing, and martial arts. Special abilities are not necessary, but perseverance and regular practice will bring benefits over time.

Three recommendations* to find an adequate sport, after asking your doctor for proper advice:

1. Start with an individual sport  for the child to get used to an activity that include rules and structure. Then, you can move on to sports where they interact with others.

2. Look for structured environments: activities must be planned, with a beginning, development and end. Pauses are necessary, since kids tend to fatigue or feel thirsty, not being aware of it.

3.  Move with the flow on your expectations. Let them play and engage. Discipline and improvement will come with regular practice.

Physical activity and sports lead to a transformation process that generates new skills and behaviors, resulting in an improvement in the quality of life, increased autonomy, and social integration. They need to be considered of equal importance as other therapies and activities within the world of Autism Spectrum Disorder.

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*No medical advice or prescription intended. 

We would like to express our special appreciation for her collaboration to 

Tania Bernal Schmelzer M.D.
Public Health Specialist  and 
Amazing Blue Mom.