Exercise Physiology for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Adelaide
Thrive Health Therapies provides expert exercise physiology services for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) across Adelaide. Our experienced Accredited Exercise Physiologists (AEPs) tailor sessions to meet each client’s unique strengths, sensory needs, and movement goals. Our evidence-based and neuroaffirming approach empowers neurodiverse individuals to move confidently, build capacity, and thrive in their daily lives.
Thrive Health Therapies uses both identity-first and person-first language interchangeably to show respect for the diverse identities and terms of reference preferred within the community.
What is Exercise Physiology for ASD?
Exercise physiology for individuals with autism spectrum disorder focuses on using movement and physical activity to support motor skills, regulation, emotional wellbeing, and functional independence. Our AEPs develop personalised programs that support each individual’s body awareness, strength, coordination, and confidence in movement.
Key Areas of Focus:
Gross Motor Skills: Enhancing balance, coordination, strength, and confidence in everyday movements
Emotional and Sensory Regulation: Using exercise to support self-regulation, reduce stress, and improve focus
Functional Movement: Supporting participation in school, recreation, home routines, or workplace activities
Posture and Core Strength: Developing postural control to support better endurance and physical function
Social Participation: Encouraging confidence in physical play, team activities, and community engagement
Benefits of Exercise Physiology for Autistic Individuals
Exercise physiology offers a wide range of physical, cognitive, and emotional benefits for individuals with ASD:
Improved Motor Skills: Developing strength, balance, and coordination for everyday activities
Enhanced Regulation: Movement-based strategies can support calming, focus, and stress reduction
Increased Confidence: Building self-esteem through movement mastery and achievable goals
Support with Transitions: Programs that encourage flexibility and promote safe, structured routines
Empowered Participation: Supporting engagement in school, social settings, home tasks, and work
Caregiver Involvement: Equipping families with tools to support daily movement and regulation at home
Our neuroaffirming approach celebrates strengths while gently supporting areas of challenge - helping individuals explore movement in a way that feels safe, empowering, and fun.
How We Deliver Exercise Physiology
We offer community-based, clinic-based and telehealth exercise physiology services to clients throughout Adelaide and the Adelaide Hills:
Community-Based Services: We provide community-based services in your home or at a location convenient to you across Adelaide. Learn more about our mobile exercise physiology services and our home visit exercise physiology services.
1:1 Clinic-Based Services: We provide clinic-based services in our specialised clinic and gym in Findon, which has been designed to be appropriate for a range of presentations and disabilities. Our fully accessible clinic and gym space has a range of specialised equipment, allowing individuals with significant physical disabilities the opportunity to work towards their goals.
Group classes: Our exercise physiologists also run small group classes at our clinic, focused on strength, balance, and conditioning - ideal for those with neurological or physical disabilities who want to build capacity in a supportive environment. Learn more about our exercise physiology group classes.
Telehealth Services: We also offer comprehensive telehealth services, providing clients in Adelaide with convenient, video-based therapy consultations for those who may have difficulty travelling to our clinic or prefer the convenience of remote support. Learn more about our teleheath services.
Funding Options for Exercise Physiology
We accept a variety of funding options, making exercise physiology for ASD accessible for everyone:
Home Care Packages (HCP)
Private Health Insurance
Chronic Disease Management (CDM) plans (GP Team Care Arrangements)
Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA)
Why Choose Our Exercise Physiologist?
No wait time: We can start working with you straight away!
Experienced: Our therapists are senior clinicians with years of experience working with a wide range of presentations.
Extensive Coverage in the community: We serve a large geographical area, providing exercise physiology across all of metropolitan Adelaide from Gawler to Aldinga. We see clients at home or at a location convenient to them. Our approach is flexible and guided by the client’s comfort and preferences.
Clinic space: Our fully accessible clinic and gym in Findon has been specially designed to be appropriate for a wide range of presentations and disabilities. With sensory-sensitive design and a variety of equipment, it's ideal for structured therapy sessions and building movement confidence.
Individualised care: Every client receives a personalised therapy plan based on their unique needs and goals.
Neuroaffirming Practice: We provide compassionate and affirming services to support and empower neurodiverse individuals.
Multi-Disciplinary Approach: We offer a wide range of allied health services under one roof, allowing for a holistic approach to your health. Learn more about our team.
NDIS Provider: We provide services to National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) participants.
Funding Options: We accept a variety of funding options, helping our clients access the support they need.
LGBTQIA+ friendly: We celebrate, value and include people of all backgrounds, genders, and sexualities, Our Findon clinic is a welcoming, safe and inclusive space for all LGBTQIA+ people and families.
FAQs - Exercise Physiology for ASD in Adelaide
If you can’t find an answer to your question, please contact our friendly team on 0474 248 081 or email enquiries@thrivehealththerapies.com
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ASD is a neurodevelopmental condition characterised by differences in social communication, sensory processing, and behaviour. Every individual’s experience of autism is unique, and support should be tailored accordingly.
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Exercise physiology can help autistic individuals improve strength, balance, coordination, and self-regulation. It also supports participation in everyday tasks and promotes a healthy relationship with movement and exercise.
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We take a neuroaffirming, strengths-based approach that respects each person’s preferences, sensory profile, and communication style. Our team is experienced, inclusive, and focused on making therapy meaningful and enjoyable.
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No! We can start working with new clients right away.
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No, you do not need a referral to see an exercise physiologist. Our experienced exercise physiologists are able to start working with you straight away!
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We accept referrals from a wide range of funding sources, including the NDIS, home care packages, Department of Veterans Affairs, Chronic Disease Management (previously known as EPC) and private clients. Learn more about our accepted funding sources.
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Prices vary between services. Our therapists work with you to ensure you get the best program of services within your budget allocation.
Please contact us for a personalised quote.
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