Why Teens with Autism in Penrith Benefit from Exercise Physiology

Exercise Physiology offers enormous benefits for teenagers with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). From improving physical health to building social skills, movement can be a powerful tool for self-regulation and confidence.

At MPower Physical Therapy in Penrith, our EPs work with neurodiverse teens to help them feel stronger, more connected, and more in control, using movement-based therapy that suits their sensory and behavioural needs.

Understanding ASD in Teenagers

Autism Spectrum Disorder is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects social interaction, communication, sensory processing, and behaviour. In teenagers, the effects of ASD can intensify due to hormonal changes, increased academic pressure, and the social expectations of adolescence.

Teens with ASD often face:

• Difficulty with social interactions

• Sensory sensitivities

• Repetitive behaviours

• Challenges with emotional regulation

• Motor coordination issues

These challenges can lead to reduced physical activity, weight gain, anxiety, and low self-esteem.

How Exercise Physiology Helps Teens with Autism

Movement has been shown to positively impact:

• Emotional regulation

• Attention and focus

• Coordination and motor planning

• Sleep quality

• Self-confidence and independence

Our Exercise Physiologists use structured, engaging activities tailored to each teen's interests and sensory profile. These may include:

• Boxing

• Resistance training

• Balance and core control

• Movement games

• Visual-motor and reaction drills

Sessions are fun, predictable, and supportive—designed to build trust and comfort while improving function.

What to Expect in a Program

Initial Assessment

• Meet-and-greet style session

• Observations of movement, mood, and attention

• Collaboration with parents or support workers

Goal Setting

• Co-designed goals with the teen and caregivers

• May include improved mood, social participation, or fitness

Weekly 1:1 Sessions

• Held in our private Penrith gym

• Sensory-friendly and tailored to the teen’s capacity on the day

Progress Monitoring

• Informal feedback after each session

• Formal reports provided to support NDIS reviews

  
  

Success Story: Building Confidence Through Movement

One of our teen clients, aged 14, began with low motivation, minimal eye contact, and coordination issues. Over 6 months of weekly sessions focusing on fun, repetitive boxing drills and obstacle courses, his confidence improved dramatically. He now initiates conversation, participates in group sport, and reports feeling “calmer” on days he exercises.

Collaboration With Families and Support Teams

We don’t work in isolation. Our team frequently collaborates with:

• Occupational Therapists

• Speech Pathologists

• Support Coordinators

• Parents and carers

This holistic approach ensures we’re all working toward the same developmental, behavioural, and health goals.

Funding Options

NDIS participants can access Exercise Physiology services through:

• Capacity Building – Improved Daily Living

• Capacity Building – Health and Wellbeing

We provide service agreements, outcome reports, and can liaise directly with support coordinators to streamline the process.

Why MPower?

• Youth-friendly, neurodiverse-aware EPs

• Custom programs built around individual strengths

• Safe and quiet facility in Penrith

• Ongoing communication with family and support networks

We believe movement is a form of empowerment. For teens with ASD, it’s also a key to unlocking confidence, stability, and engagement.

Ready to Get Started?

Contact MPower Physical Therapy today to book an initial consultation and see how Exercise Physiology can support your teen’s growth.

📍 Penrith | 1/10 Coombes Drive Penrith, 2750

Every teen deserves the opportunity to feel strong, capable, and seen. Through tailored movement programs, our Exercise Physiologists help teens with autism in Penrith move toward a brighter, more connected future, one step, one session at a time.