Boosting Physical Activity in Autistic Youth: A Multifaceted Approach
Researchers have identified 95 distinct factors that can encourage physical activity among autistic children and teenagers, offering a comprehensive understanding of how to overcome barriers and promote healthier lifestyles. This work, published in the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, emphasizes the importance of creating predictable routines, involving family members, and ensuring safe, sensory-friendly environments.
Autistic youth are often less physically active than their neurotypical peers, and even less active than the general population’s already insufficient levels of physical activity. This lack of activity can have significant implications for their physical, social, and emotional well-being. The study highlights the potential benefits of increased physical activity, framing it not as a challenge to overcome, but as an opportunity for growth, and connection.
A Strengths-Based Perspective
The research team adopted a strengths-based approach, shifting the focus from deficits to opportunities. “This perspective reframes physical activity not as a challenge for autistic children and teenagers to overcome but as an opportunity for them to build confidence, enjoyment and social connection,” explained Mathieu Michaud, a Ph.D. Student in kinesiology and co-author of the paper.
This approach has practical implications for those working with autistic youth. Michaud noted that physical activity programs can be designed around what children and teenagers with autism enjoy and excel at, rather than focusing on perceived limitations.
Mapping the Landscape of Facilitators
The researchers systematically reviewed nearly 20,000 published studies, ultimately analyzing 43 that met their inclusion criteria. This extensive review, conducted by the McGill Choices in Health, Action, Motivation, Pedagogy and Skills (CHAMPS) Physical Activity Lab, allowed them to identify and categorize the 95 factors that facilitate physical activity participation.
These factors were then organized into six categories based on a pre-established health promotion framework: individual, family, social, physical environment, institutions, and community/public policy. This categorization provides a holistic view of the influences on physical activity levels.
Key Facilitators at Different Levels
At the individual level, the review found that autistic children are more likely to participate in activities that align with their skill sets or are familiar and game-like. This suggests the importance of tailoring activities to individual strengths and preferences.
Supportive peers and positive relationships with coaches were identified as important social facilitators. At the institutional level, after-school physical activity opportunities emerged as a key factor. These findings underscore the role of social support and accessible programs in promoting participation.
Creating Supportive Environments
The importance of creating predictable routines and safe, sensory-friendly spaces was also highlighted. Predictability can reduce anxiety and increase comfort levels, while sensory-friendly environments minimize potential triggers that might discourage participation. This aligns with understanding the sensory sensitivities often experienced by individuals with autism.
Applying Research to Real-World Settings
The research team is already translating these findings into practical interventions. They are currently developing a program where autistic teenagers identify the factors that are most important to them, and then activities are designed based on those preferences. This participatory approach empowers young people and ensures that programs are tailored to their individual needs.
The study underscores the need for a multifaceted approach to promoting physical activity in autistic youth, one that considers individual strengths, family support, social connections, and environmental factors. By focusing on facilitators rather than deficits, and by creating inclusive and supportive environments, It’s possible to significantly increase participation and improve the health and well-being of this population.
Publication details: Mathieu Michaud et al, Facilitating Physical Activity Participation Among Autistic Children and Youth: A Scoping Review, Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders (2025). DOI: 10.1007/s10803-025-07141-y
