Fitness can be an effective supplemental therapy for individuals with autism. Physical activities can improve their quality of life because participating in sports, games, and exercising all involve levels of independence and choice making for that person. These activities can increase self-worth and confidence while providing new opportunities to build friendships and develop deeper relationships and ties to the community. 

Furthermore, engaging in physical activity and developing overall fitness routines provide opportunities to practice several key learning concepts (communication, social, regulatory, and motor skills), all while engaging in beneficial health activities.  

Program Overview

The Ernie Els #GameON Autism Fitness program is infused with evidence-based practices for teaching fitness and wellness to people with autism. 

Participants build strength, coordination, and overall fitness while practicing specific autism learning concepts, including communication, emotional regulation, motor, and social skills. 

The goal of the program is for participants to achieve their individual fitness successes and to build confidence and self-esteem in a fun, welcoming, and supportive environment. 

Program Structure

The Ernie Els #GameON Autism Fitness program consists of 12 group lessons, each of which has a specially designed lesson plan that delivers comprehensive fitness instruction and incorporates autism-focused learning concepts, specifically referred to in each lesson as the “autism learning concept.” It is a comprehensive program for individuals with autism which utilizes multiple evidence-based practices identified by the National Clearinghouse on Autism Evidence and Practice (Steinbrenner, et al., 2020).