ACSM/EC Autism Exercise Specialist Certificate®

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Autism is one of the most visible and widely discussed human conditions, with 1 in 36 children now diagnosed, according to the CDC. Physical activity provides a wide range of benefits to those with autism, including significant gains in social and communication skills in addition to other health-related benefits.

Exercise Connection & the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) partnered to create the Autism Exercise Specialist Certificate^® to educators, fitness professionals, and interprofessional healthcare teams with essential, evidence-based knowledge about the role of exercise for those with autism, the use of inclusive practices and effective exercise programming for this population.

Who Qualifies to Earn this Certificate?

• NCCA-accredited fitness professionals 
• Physical and adapted physical education teachers 
• Physical therapists and physical therapy assistants 
• Occupational therapists and certified occupational therapy assistants
• Recreational therapists 
• Speech-language pathologists 
• Special education teachers 
• Athletic trainers 
• Nurses
• Students in the respective majors

Course Overview

This interactive six-module, self-paced, course is designed to take approximately 14 hours.

• Module 1: Welcome to the Course
• Module 2: Overview of Autism
• Module 3: Evidence-Based Practices for Autism
• Module 4: Modified Client Consultation and Assessment
• Module 5: Autism Exercise Program Design
• Module 6: Adapting the Exercise Session and Session Management

Course Outcomes

• Use standard health assessment tools and, when available, school-based or private assessments, to develop the foundation of a client’s/students exercise program.
• Develop exercise programs and demonstrate exercises by applying evidence-based teaching strategies for people with autism.
• Lead and motivate clients/students in both an individual and group setting.
• Use various instructional strategies (e.g., visual supports, videos, technology) to promote physical activity.
• Create a positive exercise experience and enhance physical fitness and overall well-being.
• Advocate the value of exercise for the autistic community.

Learning Considerations

This course is designed for members of the interprofessional health care and education team interested in the role of exercise for people on the autism spectrum. It is designed for asynchronous, self-paced delivery.

All course content will be presented to you electronically upon completion of your purchase. This includes all videos, handouts, and certificates (certificates awarded upon successful completion of the course). 

This course expires one year (365 days) from the date of purchase. ALL course content must be completed prior to the expiration date. ACSM will not offer refunds, transfers or course credits for uncompleted courses prior to their expiration date, or for duplicate purchases. ACSM does not allow substitutions, refunds or credits for this course.

ACSM's educational certificates in specialized fields empower exercise professionals to effectively address unique considerations in their practice. These certificates validate the completion of advanced training, enhancing career opportunities by showcasing expertise to employers and the communities they support.