Autism WOD 4.27

Autism is a developmental disorder that affects an individual’s communication, verbal or nonverbal, and social interaction. Repetitive motions or noises are also often present in those diagnosed with autism. Presently, there is no one cause of autism but it seems to have its roots in very early brain development. Symptoms tend to become apparent between the ages of 2-3 although some higher functioning spectrum disorders such as Aspergers Syndrome, can take longer to diagnose. Research is beginning to show that there may be a genetic link in combination with environment affecting early brain development. Some research also points to specific gene mutation that can occur in rare cases and may be enough to cause autism.

Autism is more prevalent in boys than girls. It affects about 1 out of every 54 boys as opposed to 1 out of every 252 girls. This means 1 in every 88 children in America is affected by an autistic spectrum disorder. To put this into perspective; there are more children diagnosed with autism each year than with juvenile diabetes, AIDS or cancer, combined. There is no known cure for autism however, with the proper interventions individuals on the spectrum will go on to lead happy and fulfilling lives. 

Autism Speaks has grown into the world's leading autism science and advocacy organization, dedicated to funding research into the causes, prevention, treatments and a cure for autism; increasing awareness of autism spectrum disorders; and advocating for the needs of individuals with autism and their families. 

Over the last year, Crossfit King of Prussia has introduced groups of students from The Vanguard School to the functional movements of Crossfit. The Vanguard School is a special needs school in Paoli, Pa that serves students with a variety of disabilities. About 70% of our students have an autistic spectrum disorder. Aimee Lyons visited The Vanguard School in April for career day and students were intrigued. Many students had had negative experiences at previous gyms or were not well versed on how physical activity could be fun. Our first group of students began a six week Crossfit program in the summer of 2012. Once a week this group of ten students came to Crossfit for a kids WOD geared specifically to them. It was such a success; we brought another group in the fall. Eight students came for eight weeks. The kids loved it! They were so enthusiastic about Crossfit days. They all loved being part of a group where they were not only able to FEEL capable of doing the movements but they WERE capable. When the eight weeks were over, they begged me to bring them again. My hope is to bring another group over the summer of 2013. Also exciting is that one of our students has actually become a member of Crossfit KOP and comes on his own.

April is National Autism Awareness Month. In honor of this, Crossfit King of Prussia will be doing a special WOD to celebrate individuals affected by autism. Friends, family, and kids are welcome. Donations will be collected as people see fit to give. All proceeds will go to Autism Speaks to help with their research, treatments, and advocacy. We hope to see everyone join us to WOD for Autism on April 27^th!

Autism Speaks. 2013. http://www.autismspeaks.org/about-us

This is a cause that hits very close to home for us as one of our members--she not only works at The Vanguard School as a behavior specialist but her son, Luca, has Aspergers Syndrome. Thank you Arin for the courage and for allowing us to touch the lives of so many kids at the Vanguard School. 

The WOD:

AMRAP in 18 Minutes

Teams of two complete the following one person working at a time. Athlete A will complete one round and then Athlete B completes one round alternating back and forth until the 18 minutes elapses.

Intermediate:

5 Box Jumps

10 Burpees

15 Air Squats

Advanced:

5 Box Jumps 24/30"

10 Burpees

15 Overhead Squats 75/115# 

This WoD will run at all classes on 4/27 at CrossFit King of Prussia. Hope to see you all there!

Click here to Donate today!!