Health and Fitness

Experiences of exercise can differ greatly for neurodivergent individuals. They may have difficulty accessing fitness programmes and sports facilities without adaptations or support. Having a fitness coach who understands neurodivergent conditions and access to a safe, inclusive space for exercise where environmental adjustments can be made, is essential for promoting health and fitness for everyone. At Illuminate Inclusion, we work with neurodivergent individuals and health and fitness professionals to help make exercise more inclusive and accessible.

For neurodivergent individuals who would like to get into exercise, our Health and Fitness team can provide:

  • Bespoke exercise programmes that meet specific needs and are presented in an accessible format to suit the individual.

  • 1:1 personal training and small group fitness sessions.

For professionals in the health and fitness industry, we can provide:

  • Advice and recommendations on creating inclusive fitness spaces and adapting physical environments to suit a range of needs.

  • Tailored staff training programmes on neurodiversity and inclusion.

What’s different about exercise for neurodivergent individuals?

Health and fitness can work differently for neurodivergent people due to a variety of factors related to their unique neurocognitive profiles. These factors may include:

  • Sensory sensitivities: Many neurodivergent individuals may have heightened sensory sensitivities, meaning they are more sensitive to noise, light, touch or certain textures. This can make certain physical activities or environments uncomfortable or overwhelming. For example, crowded gyms with loud music and bright lights may be challenging for individuals with sensory sensitivities. Adapting the fitness environment to be more sensory-friendly or exploring alternative exercise options can help accommodate these sensitivities.

  • Executive functioning challenges: Executive functions are cognitive processes responsible for tasks such as planning, organising, initiating and completing tasks, as well as for shifting attention between tasks and emotional regulation. Neurodivergent individuals often experience difficulties with executive functioning, which can affect their ability to plan and follow through with an exercise routine, manage their time effectively or regulate their behaviour during physical activities. They may need additional support, such as more structured sessions and explicit instructions presented one step at a time, to engage in an exercise programme and develop consistent health and fitness habits.

  • Social interactions: Social interactions can be challenging for many neurodivergent individuals. Traditional fitness environments often involve group activities or require social engagement, which can cause discomfort or anxiety. Providing opportunities for individualised or one-on-one exercise sessions, offering alternative fitness options that cater to personal preferences, or creating inclusive and supportive exercise groups can help address these social challenges so that neurodivergent individuals are able to participate.

  • Communication and instructional styles: Neurodivergent individuals may process information differently or experience challenges with certain aspects of communication, such as social cue or non-literal language. They may need concise and explicit instructions, visual aids or alternative communication methods to be able to understand and follow fitness routines effectively. Coaches or trainers with an understanding of neurodivergent conditions can adapt their teaching approaches to ensure effective communication and support neurodivergent individuals to participate and enjoy exercise sessions.