The Autism Fitness Handbook: An Exercise Program to Boost Body Image, Motor Skills, Posture and Confidence in Children and Teens with Autism Spectrum Disorder

by David Geslak, Stephen M. Shore (Foreword by)

Overview

Designed to address specific areas of difficulty for children, teens and young adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), the 46 exercises in this comprehensive program are proven to improve body image, motor coordination, posture, muscular and cardiovascular fitness. The boost to confidence, relationships and general wellbeing resulting from this will be transformative for individuals with ASD and their families.

Used extensively in homes, schools and specialist ASD programs, the exercises require minimal equipment and can be used in a wide range of settings. Accompanied by clear instructions and explanatory cartoon illustrations, they are easy for non-specialists to follow and can be used just as effectively with groups or individuals.

Packed with helpful advice from the author, an ASD fitness specialist, as well as inspiring case studies and guidelines on adapting the exercises for different ages and abilities, this popular program contains everything needed to get minds and bodies active while having fun!

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781849059985
Publisher:	Jessica Kingsley Publishers
Publication date:	09/21/2014
Pages:	168
Product dimensions:	8.40(w) x 10.90(h) x 0.50(d)
Age Range:	5 - 16 Years

About the Author

David S. Geslak is the Founder and Director of Exercise Connection Corporation. He has been developing fitness programs for children and adults with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) since 2004. He has a bachelor's degree in Health Promotion and is a Certified Health Fitness Specialist and Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist. It is David's mission to educate parents, teachers and other professionals about the benefits of exercise for individuals with ASDs, and lead them towards a healthier and more active lifestyle. David lives in Chicago, Illinois. His company's website can be found at: www.ecautism.com.

Table of Contents

Foreword by Stephen M. Shore. Introduction. Part One: Engage. 1. Exercise…The Gateway to Build Fitness, Self-Esteem, and Relationships. Part Two: Educate. 2. The Five Components of Physical Fitness – Revisited. 3. Setting up an Individualized Program. 4. Creating Individual Visual Exercise Schedules. Part Three: Empower. 5. Champion Stories. Part Four: Exercise. Body Image. 1. Body Part Identification. 2. The Pretzel. 3. Stability Ball Hug. 4. Arm. 5. Foot. Posture. 6. Calf stretch. 7. Hip Extensions. 8-10. Log Exercises. 11. Dog. 12. Frankensteins. Motor Coordination. 13-15. Ladder Drills. 16. Ball Catch (Large & Small). 17. Crossover March. 18. Crossover March with Elbows. 19-21. Letter Jumping. Muscular Fitness. 22. Dumbbell Chest Press. 23. Single Arm Dumbbell Row. 24. Standing Band Row (Two Hands). 25-27. Medicine Ball (MB) Series. Abdominal Strength. 28-31. Superman Series. 32. Push-Up Hold. 33. Elbows 'n' Toes. 34. Partner Crunch. Cardiovascular Fitness. 35-42. Running Mechanics. 43. Treadmill. 44. Cone Running. 45. Exercise Bike. 46. Trampoline. References.

Editorial Reviews

The Autism Fitness Handbook greatly demonstrates Coach David's profound understanding of autism and the challenges it causes. The handbook emphasizes the importance of structure and routine, and the use of visual supports and reinforcers, to maximise the learning opportunities for persons with autism. It also explains how exercise can be used to teach concepts, language, social skills, psycho-motor goals, besides achieving motor skills development and body awareness.

Maha Helali

Physical fitness - so often overlooked when helping people with autism reach their full potential - provides extended and far-reaching benefits. David Geslak gives us an understandable and achievable plan everyone can implement. His compassion, knowledge and understanding make this book a must-read for every parent and professional who works in the autism community.

Anissa Ryland

The Autism Fitness Handbook breaks down the teaching of exercise to children and adults on the autism spectrum into a clear, concise and common sense approach. “Engage, Educate, Empower and Exercise” are the four components of the Handbook and applicable for everyone to embrace, no matter your ability level.

Danielle Carter