"He's lost weight and his cholesterol improved, but of course, Spencer is more proud of his muscles and likes to flex daily!"

Meet Spencer M., 22

It’s no secret that physical exercise offers a wide range of benefits for autistic people - enhancing their physical, mental and social well-being. Regular physical activity can improve cardiovascular health, strength, coordination and flexibility while helping manage weight, which can be a concern for the autistic community due to medication side effects or restricted eating habits.

a family flexing their muscles during a CrossFit workout

For Matt and Hannah, long-time CrossFit enthusiasts and the parents of an autistic son, the couple knew the importance of living a healthy lifestyle. They also knew the struggle of trying to get their son, Spencer, who was very routine oriented, to partake in activities that didn’t involve working on his Legos or Magna-Tiles. Although he would occasionally go for a walk or a run with his dad, Spencer spent most of his time sitting, which caused weight gain and malaise.

a father and son working out on a stationary bike

It wasn’t until January 2022, when friend and CrossFit instructor, Coach Chad Svoboda, of Diablo CrossFit in Pleasant Hill, CA, offered to personally train their son in a welcoming, inclusive environment, that everything seemed to click for the family. Today, three years later, Spencer and his family have made CrossFit a family affair, spending several hours per week training through guided workouts tailored to fit his abilities and learning style.

When Spencer crushes a heavy lift day or hits a new personal record or PR as it’s known in the CrossFit world, he lights up with pride. Although he can’t fully express the extent of his physical transformation, he’s not shy about talking about his gains.

“My muscles are getting strong with Chad!”

Not only is his body getting stronger as he gains muscle, but Hannah knows the other benefits her son’s daily workouts have made on his life.

“It’s greatly improved his health markers,” she said. He’s lost weight and his cholesterol improved, but of course, Spencer is more proud of his muscles and likes to flex daily!”

Not only can physical activity boost self-confidence and provide daily purpose as it has done for Spencer, it also enhances motor skills, with activities like CrossFit, swimming and yoga promoting better body awareness and control, improves sleep quality, and reduces risk of cognitive decline and dementia later in life.

a proud father and autistic son after a CrossFit workout

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