Autism Exercise Specialist Certificate

ACSM SPECIALTY CERTIFICATE PROGRAM

Make a Profound Impact. Earn the Certificate.

ACSM & Exercise Connection are uniting multidisciplinary teams with the leading specialty certificate program to drive inclusive exercise globally.

Earn the Certificate

Who Qualifies

NCCA Accredited Fitness
Professionals

Adapted Physical Education Teacher
Physical Education Teacher
Special Education Teacher

Nurses
Physical Therapist & PTA
Occupational Therapist & COTA
Recreational Therapist
Speech-Language
Pathologist
Behavioral Specialists (e.g., BCBA)

4th-year and graduate students in the respective majors above also qualify to earn the certificate.

Course Overview

This asynchronous six-module 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 exercise program.
Develop exercise programs and demonstrate exercises by applying evidence-based teaching strategies for people with autism.
Lead and motivate clients 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.

UNITED BY A COMMON GOAL

Certificate is an Approved Provider for

Earn Continuing Education Credits (CECs) from these organizations when you obtain your ACSM Certificate.

Approved for 14 CECs

Approved for 1.7 CECs

Approved for .12 CEUs

Approved for 12 CEUs

SUPPORTING RESEARCH

“Frequency at which participants reported using evidence-based practices increased significantly from pretest to posttest.”

“Online training for physical activity practitioners on evidence-based practices for clients with autism.”

Advances in Autism Journal 2021

David Geslak discusses the benefits of certification

RESOURCES & INSIGHTS

Effective Strategies to Engage Clients

At Exercise Connection, we instill evidence-based practices, which are the building blocks for educational programs. Discover innovative approaches and actionable insights to make the exercise connection in your school.

Educators & Therapists, Exercise Professionals, Schools

Embracing Physical Activity Through Occupational Therapy: A Client-Centered Approach

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Educators & Therapists, Exercise Professionals, Schools

The Positive Impact of Exercise on Social Skills in Individuals with Autism

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Educators & Therapists, Exercise Professionals, Schools

5 Tips for Starting an Exercise Routine for those with Autism

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Educators & Therapists, Exercise Professionals, Schools

Autism: Sport vs. Exercise

Read Article

Make a Profound Impact

Get started on your journey to earn your certificate and change lives with autism-inclusive exercise.