In this powerful episode of Dads in Autismland, host Mark de Grasse welcomes Eric Chessen, founder of Autism Fitness, to explore the long-term importance of physical health for autistic individuals.
Eric shares his journey from personal trainer to autism fitness pioneer, offering insights into motivation, movement planning, and individualized training for children and adults on the spectrum.
With practical advice, personal stories, and thoughtful strategies, this episode empowers dads to prioritize their child's physical health—regardless of age or verbal ability. From behavior-specific praise to handling meltdowns in the gym, Eric delivers tools and encouragement for every autism dad.
TOPICS:
- Why fitness is a lifelong priority for children and adults with autism
- How behavior science and fitness training intersect in Autism Fitness
- Strategies for motivation, including choice and behavior-specific praise
- Adapting exercise programs to individual needs and communication styles
- The importance of consistency, reinforcement, and celebrating small wins
- Managing meltdowns and behavior issues in fitness sessions
- How fitness translates into confidence and independence over time
GUEST LINKS:
Eric Chessen – Autism Fitness: https://www.autismfitness.com/
ADVERTISING LINKS:
Dads In Autismland Membership: https://dadsinautismland.com/dads-in-autismland-membership-the-pathfinder-collective/
QUOTES:
- "There’s no such thing as an autism-specific exercise—it’s all about the implementation."
- "Choice and behavior-specific praise
- are my biggest coaching go-tos."
- "Fitness is an investment—compound interest over time builds capability and confidence."
- "I’ve seen athletes go from unable to squat to dominating ninja courses."
- "Even if they can’t communicate it, they often appreciate the structure and movement."
ℹ️ Note: Every autistic person's journey is unique. This video shares one family's experience of finding success through focusing on interests and abilities rather than limitations. Always consult with appropriate professionals when developing employment plans.
Host
Mark de Grasse
Popular Podcasts
New Heights with Jason & Travis Kelce
Football’s funniest family duo — Jason Kelce of the Philadelphia Eagles and Travis Kelce of the Kansas City Chiefs — team up to provide next-level access to life in the league as it unfolds. The two brothers and Super Bowl champions drop weekly insights about the weekly slate of games and share their INSIDE perspectives on trending NFL news and sports headlines. They also endlessly rag on each other as brothers do, chat the latest in pop culture and welcome some very popular and well-known friends to chat with them. Check out new episodes every Wednesday. Follow New Heights on the Wondery App, YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts. You can listen to new episodes early and ad-free, and get exclusive content on Wondery+. Join Wondery+ in the Wondery App, Apple Podcasts or Spotify. And join our new membership for a unique fan experience by going to the New Heights YouTube channel now!
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com
On Purpose with Jay Shetty
I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!