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When most people think about fitness, they picture gyms, athletes, or people chasing aesthetic goals. But for millions of individuals living with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), those opportunities are often out of reach. At Suarez Adaptive Fitness, we believe fitness is not optional; it’s foundational for physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Unfortunately, decades of research show that people with IDD face systemic barriers that make consistent move

In the world of developmental support, the word “fixation” often carries a negative tone. Caregivers may see it as a behavior to redirect or something that gets in the way of “normal” functioning. But what if hyperfixation: that intense, focused immersion on a specific topic, object, or activity, isn’t a problem at all? What if it’s a window into potential? Understanding Hyperfixation Beyond the Stereotype Hyperfixation is common among individuals with autism spectrum disorde

The Connection Between Behavior and Movement Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) focuses on understanding and shaping human behavior through reinforcement, structure, and consistency. Fitness, when designed correctly, operates on those same principles. At Suarez Adaptive Performance, we merge the behavioral science of ABA with the structure of exercise to create sessions that improve not only strength and coordination, but also focus, confidence, and self-regulation. Movement bec

Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) often face unique challenges when it comes to physical activity. Sensory sensitivities, motor skill delays, and social communication difficulties can make traditional fitness programs less effective or even overwhelming. Yet, staying active is crucial for their physical health, emotional well-being, and social development. This post explores practical, adaptive fitness strategies designed specifically to support children with ASD,

Families today face many challenges balancing physical health and mental well-being. While fitness routines often focus on physical activity, integrating behavioral health into these routines can create a more holistic approach that benefits every family member. This post explores practical ways to combine behavioral health with family fitness, helping families build stronger connections, improve mental resilience, and enjoy healthier lifestyles together. Why Behavioral Healt

Keeping youth with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) active can be a challenge for many families. Physical activity plays a crucial role in improving health, mood, and social skills for these young individuals. Yet, finding the right approach that fits their unique needs requires patience, creativity, and understanding. This post offers practical fitness tips designed specifically for families supporting youth with IDD, helping you build enjoyable and effectiv