New research is challenging long-standing assumptions about autism and physical activity, offering fresh insights into the experiences of autistic adults.

It found a lack of understanding and knowledge about autism among movement professionals such as sports coaches, fitness instructors, teachers or health care professionals.

For many autistic adults, the barriers to physical activity go beyond physical limitations which have often been touted.

They include sensory sensitivities, social expectations, and past negative experiences.

These challenges are often misunderstood, leading to a perception that autistic individuals lack interest in exercise when the issue is far more nuanced.

Working together

The research team calls on experts to co-produce neurodivergent-informed physical activity practices with autistic adults which account for the specific needs, interests and abilities of autistic adults.

Traditionally, research in this area has focused on children, with little attention given to how autistic adults engage in physical activity.

This new study from our departments of Sport and Exercise Sciences and Psychology addresses that gap by prioritizing the voices of autistic adults in middle adulthood aged between 36 and 59.

This is important because autistic adults have low levels of participation in physical activity, therefore missing out on its many health, well-being and social benefits.

Complex barriers

In their article published in the journal Autism, our researchers explore the complex biological, psychological and socio-cultural factors that shape autistic adults‘ participation in physical activity.

And they introduce the concept of neuro-normative assumptions—the societal expectations that frame physical activity and assumptions made about autistic people in a way that can exclude autistic individuals.

Inclusive and supportive

Another significant contribution of this study is its trauma-informed approach.

Historically, autistic individuals have been under-served, experienced victimization and even exploited by research institutions, leading to deep mistrust.

This study acknowledges that history and seeks to frame physical activity in a way that is inclusive, supportive and centered on the needs of the person, rather than prescriptive.

So instead of taking a deficit-based approach which has been the dominant way of thinking in the field focusing on what autistic people cannot do—this research recognizes and values their different ways of experiencing the world with a focus on what they can do and how that relates to their engagement in physical activity.

This neuro-affirming approach builds on ongoing research at our Center for Neurodiversity and Development aimed at enabling neurodivergent people to thrive in all aspects of life.