Annette Doucette started the program, called Dandelion Fitness, this summer after she began working with a client with autism.
“I started working with the client and I found it to be a very rewarding experience,” Doucette said. “My client gave me a life-changing experience this summer which I will remember forever.”
Working with the client prompted Doucette to further research fitness for those with autism or special needs. Dandelion Fitness has a simple goal, she said, to help those with autism and special needs achieve fitness affordably.
“I want people of all capabilities to be able to obtain fitness,” she said. “I think it’s important for children with autism and special needs to have access to fitness.”
Annette Doucette leads a Dandelion Fitness class Monday, Aug. 24, at Max Training in Moorhead. The class is designed for children on the Autism spectrum. Michael Vosburg / Forum Photo Editor
Doucette, who is epileptic herself, has seen a positive response from local families. “So far they’ve been really responsive to it. They seem happy it’s here,” she said. “I’ve had a few calls already and I hope to have more people get back with me.”
Clients are required to sign a liability and medical release and Doucette has a questionnaire to understand each client’s goals, preferences and special needs.
“Each program is designed for each person’s ability, so each person’s program is going to be designed to their goals and needs,” Doucette said. “There’s not going to be one cookie-cutter program.”
Though programs are modified for each child’s abilities, workouts generally include core-strengthening exercises, proprioception, balance and crossing the midline.
Some clients may require modifications to standard workouts, such doing push-ups off a bench or wall as opposed to the floor or avoiding making noise. Dandelion Fitness also has a sensory corner for clients to use if they become overwhelmed.
Because many children with autism do not like to exercise, Doucette said, she has needed to make exercise fun by incorporating game-style activities. “The game factor makes it more of a fun, rewarding experience,” she said. “You want to make it more of a fun experience rather than have them see it as an exercise.”
In addition to modifying for each client’s special needs, Doucette has adjusted to the pandemic to include cleaning in between equipment use and leaving the facility’s garage doors open to allow fresh air flow. Doucette wears a mask at all times while working out, though the children are not required to wear one.
Children with developmental or behavioral disorders are not at a heightened risk for COVID-19, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, however the CDC noted that such individuals may struggle with social distancing, isolation and mask wearing.
Doucette’s is hopeful she can help local families and children with special needs achieve fitness. While she commended the efforts area schools make for children with special needs, her hope is to go beyond what schools can provide. “I want to fulfill anything out there that’s needed,” she said. “I am here to provide extra one-on-one time, group time or whatever the family may need.”
“Anything additional for fitness and health is a great thing,” she concluded.