Exercise and its Impact on Social Behavior in Neurodivergent Adults
For many neurodivergent adults, socializing can be a challenging and overwhelming experience. From autism to ADHD to anxiety disorders, the barriers to social engagement can be high. However, research has shown that exercise can be a powerful tool in overcoming these barriers and increasing social engagement among neurodivergent adults.
One study published in the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders found that exercise significantly improved social behavior and communication skills in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Another study published in the Journal of Attention Disorders found that exercise improved social behavior in children with ADHD.
But what about neurodivergent adults? Can exercise have the same positive effects on social engagement? The answer is yes.
Lowering Social Barriers: The Impact of Exercise on Neurodivergent Adults
Research has shown that exercise can help reduce anxiety and depression, common co-occurring conditions for many neurodivergent adults. When anxiety and depression are reduced, engaging in social activities and forming connections with others becomes more manageable.
In addition, exercise can also improve self-esteem and self-confidence, which can lead to increased social engagement. When you feel good about yourself, you are more likely to put yourself out there and try new things.
Exercise can also provide a sense of structure and routine, which can be particularly helpful for neurodivergent adults who struggle with executive functioning. Incorporating exercise into a daily routine can help create a sense of predictability and stability, making socializing feel less daunting.
Furthermore, exercise itself can provide opportunities for socializing. Joining a small group training or saying hello to other athletes at the gym can be a great way to meet new people with similar interests. These types of social interactions can also be less intimidating than other social events, as they are focused on a common goal or activity.
Raising The Bar: How Exercise Empowers Neurodivergent Adults to Connect and Thrive
Inclusive Fitness is committed to providing high-quality strength and conditioning programs for neurodivergent adolescents and adults. Our approach is designed to build strength, confidence, and community by creating opportunities for our athletes to exercise self-agency throughout every session.
The benefits of exercise for neurodivergent adults are numerous and include:
- Increased social engagement.
- Reduced anxiety and depression.
- Improved self-esteem and confidence.
- A sense of structure and routine.
If you are a parent or other caregiver, including program directors at special needs schools, day and residential programs, and support neurodivergent adults and are looking to increase their levels of social engagement, incorporating high-quality exercise opportunities in their daily lives is something you should seriously consider.
Partnering with professionals who are experts in designing and running adaptive fitness programs can be a highly effective way of improving social engagement while improving strength and fitness for the neurodivergent adults in your care.
References:
Pan, C.-Y., Chu, C.-H., Tsai, C.-L., Sung, M.-C., Huang, C.-Y., & Ma, W.-Y. (2017). The impacts of physical activity intervention on physical and cognitive outcomes in children with autism spectrum disorder. Autism, 21(2), 190-202.
Gapin, J. I., Etnier, J. L., & Carpenter, D. M. (2011). The effects of physical activity on attention deficit hyperactivity disorder symptoms: The evidence. Preventive Medicine, 52, S70-S74.
Silveira, S. L., Oliveira, A. C., & Dias, F. A. (2015). Physical exercise and social interaction on depressive symptoms: A randomized controlled trial. Revista Brasileira de Psiquiatria, 37(4), 286-294.
Fox, K. R. (1999). The influence of physical activity on mental well-being. Public Health Nutrition, 2(3a), 411-418.