When Autistic People Move - With Whom?
Regular physical activity is an essential component of overall health and well-being for all of us. For autistic adults, many of whom studies show face high rates of physical inactivity and overweight - contributing to various health risks - the importance of physical activity increases even further. Social support is known to greatly influence the adoption and maintenance of health habits, but the role of shared participation in physical activity with family members and friends has not been thoroughly examined in this population until now.
A study published in the Disabil Health J in October 2026 aimed to examine this issue on two levels: first, to investigate differences in shared participation with family and friends in physical activity between physically active autistic adults and those who are not active. Second, to examine the relationship between shared participation and objectively measured physical activity levels.
The study, based on a cross-sectional analysis of data from two previous community studies, included 44 autistic adults. Participants self-reported their level of participation in physical activity with family and friends. The researchers objectively measured physical activity levels using tracking devices (by number of steps per day). These data presented a worrying picture: 70% of participants were overweight or obese, 75% were at high risk due to waist-to-height ratio, and 55% accumulated fewer than 7,000 steps per day - a figure indicating insufficient activity.
The main findings of the study indicated that participants who reported shared participation with family members in physical activity, at least "several times" a week, were more likely to reach the goal of 7,000 steps or more per day. This association was particularly prominent in activities such as swimming and unstructured activities. In contrast, shared participation with friends did not show a significant association with physical activity outcomes. Although this is a study with a relatively small sample and a cross-sectional analysis that cannot prove causality, these findings are significant.
Implications of the findings for autistic adults in Israel: The initial findings suggest that family involvement can be an important key to promoting physical activity among autistic adults. The understanding that active support and shared participation of family members, especially in flexible and accessible activities like swimming, can positively impact activity levels - opens the door to new intervention directions. It is possible that developing programs that emphasize the role of the family and encourage its participation in daily activities, while considering the individual preferences and abilities of the autistic person, can greatly contribute to their health and well-being. It is important to remember that this is a finding from a single study, and further research is needed to confirm and refine these understandings.