We all know the importance of physical exercise. No matter how old you are or where you’re from, getting in an hour of exercise everyday is important for your mental and physical health. And one of the easiest ways to get in your 60 minutes of activity is through organized sports. Sports are a great way for people of any age to learn how to work as a team and win and lose with grace. However, team sports can sometimes be difficult for those with Asperger’s to partake in, since they often have difficulty communicating with others or understanding social language. But just because some sports may be intimidating for them, it doesn’t mean all are. Below are some of the best sports for people with Asperger’s to try:
Swimming
For people with Asperger’s or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), swimming is a fantastic sport. According to the Autism Spectrum Disorder Foundation (ASDF), swimming can help children with Asperger’s improve their speech, coordination, social skills, self-esteem, and cognitive thinking.
Track and Field
Many organized sports require a player to focus on multiple things at once (catch that ball, block that person, hit that ball), and it can be overwhelming for a person with Asperger’s. Instead, track and field allows a person to really only focus on one thing at a time.
Horseback Riding
It’s not uncommon for people with Asperger’s to communicate well with animals. Horseback riding has been so helpful to people with ASD that it has become a popular therapeutic activity, as well as sport.
Biking
At first, biking can be a challenge for people with Asperger’s, since it requires you to balance well. However, once people with ASD have mastered the basics, cycling can be an incredibly rewarding sport. If you’re not able to use a traditional two-wheeler, you can also get an adult trike or tandem bike.
Debra Solomon, founder of Spectrum Strategies sees the strength and beauty in each and every individual with Asperger’s Syndrome and autism. Debra is focused on training young adults on the Autism Spectrum and with Asperger’s to accomplish life and career goals, no matter how big or small. She believes that through determination and commitment, every client has the ability to live life to their fullest potential. Call (516) 510-7637 for your first one-on-one!