Adaptive Fitness for Clients with Special Needs

Moving Clients with Developmental Delays Forward

People with developmental and/or physical delays are unfortunately an underserved population in the fitness industry—but they deserve the opportunity to be more active and have positive exercise experiences. In fact, according to the University of Hertfordshire, over 80% of adults with intellectual disabilities engage in levels of physical activity below the minimum recommended by the Department of Health (UK), a much lower level of physical activity than the general population (53%-64%).

In this video training led by Anna Woods, an ACE Certified Personal Trainer, owner of SheStrength, author and mother of two children with special needs, you will learn how to lead a client with developmental and/or physical delays through a personal training or small group exercise session. You will discover creative and fun ways to engage and motivate clients in warm-ups, strength training and cardio workouts using various equipment, tools and communication methods.

Learn how to effectively train this clientele and get results—while making a difference in an underserved population.

Upon completion, you will be able to:

• Apply program modifications for common movements and workouts to clients with various diagnoses, behaviors and physical limitations
• Communicate in a way that encourages client compliance and motivation to learn
• Provide ideas for parents or caretakers to help their child or client be active at home