Autistic Young Adults' Experiences and Recommendations for Strength Training

Strength training can be a beneficial form of physical activity (PA), but little research has examined how autistic individuals experience it or what makes programs accessible and supportive. Therefore, the purpose of this study was twofold: (1) to explore autistic young adults' experiences with strength training, and (2) examine their recommendations for designing programs that meet their needs. Thirteen autistic young adults (ages 22-25) participated in semi-structured interviews about their strength training experiences and preferences for program design. A qualitative descriptive approach with a constructivist lens guided reflexive analysis. Participants described key factors that influenced their participation in strength training, including social support, knowledgeable coaching, and the physical and mental benefits of participation. They emphasized the need for programs that accommodate sensory preferences, provide flexible scheduling, and offer both group and individual training options. These findings highlight ways to improve strength training accessibility for autistic young adults and inform the development of more inclusive programs. Future research should include participants without previous strength training experience and of various ethnic and racial backgrounds.