Exercise’s benefits are well – known, but its impact on specific groups like autistic teenagers is a growing focus. Researchers at the University of Colorado School of Medicine are exploring how regular exercise affects autistic teens physically, emotionally, and socially—an emerging area of intervention, as noted by post – doctoral fellow Kelly Cosgrove.
The study involves 13 – to 19 – year – olds, many from JFK Partners (a 60 – year – old program aiding those with developmental disabilities).
Recruits, who were sedentary (less than 1 hour of activity weekly), followed a 10 – week regimen: 30 minutes of moderate exercise (any heart – raising activity) at least 3 times a week, tracked via logs and Fitbits. The plan was designed by Dr. Kristina Legget, Cosgrove’s mentor.
Cosgrove is focusing on two key areas: the brain’s default mode network and bodily inflammation. The default mode network, active during rest, shapes self – perception and social interaction.
In autistic individuals, it functions differently, affecting how they relate to others. Using functional MRI, she checks if exercise alters its activity, even if behavior doesn’t change immediately—longer exercise might be needed for behavioral shifts.
She also tests blood for three cytokines (inflammation – regulating proteins). High, constant levels in autistic youth may cause “sickness behaviors” like social withdrawal. Exercise, which lowers inflammation in other groups, could reduce this, boosting social engagement.
Judy Reaven, a mentor and JFK Partners associate director, works on reducing anxiety in autistic kids (who have higher anxiety rates). Her modified cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), “Facing Your Fears,” is visual and tailored to autistic learning styles. She sees exercise as a tool in managing stress—simple activities like walking or playing with pets count.
Both researchers stress they’re not “curing” autism but supporting teens to thrive. Cosgrove notes exercise benefits everyone, countering screen – driven inactivity and isolation.
Early signs suggest exercise may aid brain function and reduce inflammation, potentially improving well – being. While not a fix – all, it’s a promising avenue.
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