Grosprêtre, S., Ruffino, C., Derguy, C., & Gueugneau, N. (2024). Sport and Autism: What Do We Know so Far? A Review. Sports Medicine-Open, 10(1), 107.
Autism is often associated with anxiety, a condition that can stem from feelings of social isolation. This situation can, in turn, increase the risk of depression in some cases. However, sports and physical activity provide significant support in addressing these challenges, as their positive effects in reducing symptoms of depression are well-documented.
To achieve tangible benefits from physical activity, it is important to follow a program for an adequate period. Improvements usually become noticeable after 16 weeks of consistent exercise, while shorter programs, such as those lasting 8 weeks, tend to have a limited impact.
Psychological and Physical Benefits of Sports
Sports not only enhance physical well-being but also positively affect several psychological aspects. For instance, short-term training programs can boost self-esteem. Similarly, self-efficacy—the confidence in one’s own abilities—can improve through activities that allow individuals to regulate the intensity of their exercises autonomously.
Parents of autistic children often report improvements in their children’s mood, quality of life, and autism-related behaviors after participating in sports programs. Physically, autistic individuals show significant progress in strength and overall fitness, with noticeable improvements in cardiovascular endurance and upper and lower limb strength. Balance training can also help mitigate motor challenges related to stability, enhancing the ability to control body movements.
Cognitive Improvements and Physical Adaptations
Even simple and less structured exercises can offer cognitive benefits. For example, circuit exercise programs have demonstrated improvements in reaction times and cognitive flexibility, areas that can be particularly challenging for autistic individuals. Physically, benefits such as a reduction in fat mass have been observed through combined aerobic-neuromuscular or coordination-strength training programs.
Sports like basketball, football, and handball are particularly effective at developing perceptual-motor skills due to the level of uncertainty and adaptability required during gameplay. These “open-skill” sports promote quick responses and flexibility in movement, improving motor and cognitive skills.
Socialization and Interaction Through Physical Activity
Sports can also have a positive impact on socialization, an area often critical for autistic individuals. Participating in sports provides opportunities for interaction with other participants and instructors, increasing social stimulation. This can lead to improvements in communication and social functioning. Moreover, sports are experienced as enjoyable activities that offer a sense of accomplishment and enhance self-confidence, especially in group settings.
From a physiological perspective, physical exercise can stimulate the production of oxytocin, a hormone associated with social cognition and relational behaviors. However, the intensity of the activity should be carefully considered: too light an exercise may not yield significant benefits, while overly intense activity can cause discomfort and discourage participation.
Conclusion
According to research, physical activity can be an effective and accessible tool for managing autism. It offers social, psychological, and physical advantages and, with the right approach, can become a key element in improving the quality of life for autistic individuals and their families.
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