Celebrating Differences: Autism Acceptance Month at ZOOZ Fitness

Sean, Austin, and Julian exercising in an adult circuit class.

For Austin, a ZOOZ Fitness athlete, having autism isn’t a limitation — it’s a superpower.

“To have autism means I am different,” Austin shares. “But I am not broken, I just have a different operating system!”

Austin is one of many athletes on the autism spectrum who work out at ZOOZ and is proudly celebrating April as Autism Acceptance Month.

“Autism is not a disease, and I am proud to have autism,” he adds.

What is Autism?

According to the Mayo Clinic, autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a condition related to brain development that affects how a person perceives and socializes with others. It can also influence how people communicate, learn, and behave.

Emma, a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and ZOOZ trainer, explains that autism is a spectrum disorder — meaning there’s a wide range of experiences, strengths, and support needs. “Autism isn’t caused by one gene or factor; it’s a complex, heterogeneous condition with many genetic and environmental influences,” she says. “No part of autism is a disease. It’s just a developmental difference in how a person experiences and interacts with the world.”

Early signs of autism can sometimes be seen as young as 18 months, Emma notes, such as reduced eye contact or delays in certain cognitive or physical milestones. However, as children grow, autism can look very different from person to person, and there are notable differences in how it presents between boys and girls.

“There’s about a four-to-one ratio of boys to girls diagnosed with autism, and girls are often diagnosed later because it can show up differently,” Emma explains. “That’s why it’s called a ‘spectrum’ — every person with autism has a unique pattern of strengths, behaviors, and needs.”

Emma loves the way Austin describes autism as a different “operating system,” and often uses that analogy to help others understand.

“I have a friend whose parents explained his autism by saying, ‘Some people have a PC operating system, some have a Mac, and you have your own unique operating system,’” she says. “It’s such an apt way to describe the diversity and individuality within the autism community. Just like computers, everyone processes the world a little differently, and that’s not just okay — it’s what makes us unique.”

Autism Acceptance Month

Austin and Julian exercising in an adult circuit class.

April is Autism Acceptance Month, a time dedicated to promoting understanding, inclusion, and appreciation for the autistic community. It’s a chance to recognize the talents, perspectives, and contributions of people with autism, and to create a more welcoming and equitable world for everyone.

Julian, another ZOOZ athlete, says he’s grateful for the visibility the month provides.

His mother, Kathleen, agrees. “It’s so important to spread awareness about autism so people understand that those with autism are whole individuals. Many people with autism have jobs, get married, have friends — they may communicate or learn differently, but they bring so much value and often achieve their goals in their own time and way.”

Emma is also passionate about early education around autism. “I did my master’s thesis on teaching young children about autism and other disabilities. In schools, I saw that kids under six don’t have bias — they just like their friends, no matter how they communicate. If we can foster that acceptance early, we’ll create a more inclusive society as they grow.”

She adds, “Autism Acceptance Month is an opportunity for people to advocate for themselves, educate others, and celebrate differences — both within and outside the autism community.”

Autism and Fitness 

Just like everyone else, people with autism benefit tremendously from an active lifestyle — and in some ways, it’s even more important. Studies show that autistic adults are two to three times more likely to develop heart disease, due to factors like high stress, poor sleep, medication side effects, and sometimes limited access to healthy nutrition and exercise opportunities. Motor skills, balance, and coordination can also present challenges.

That’s where ZOOZ comes in. Through group circuit classes, boxing, and personal training, ZOOZ provides a supportive and inclusive environment for athletes on the spectrum to get stronger, improve balance, build confidence, and connect with others.

“Gyms can be intimidating for anyone,” Emma says. “But for someone who’s never been in a gym, doesn’t know the equipment, or has unique behaviors, it can be even harder. ZOOZ is extra special because everyone is accepted and supported. It’s a community where all are welcome.”

Looking Forward

The ZOOZ community dreams of a world where special months of awareness and acceptance are no longer needed — because inclusion is simply a way of life. Until then, celebrating Autism Acceptance Month and honoring our community members with autism is vital.

And for Austin, being different isn’t just good — it’s great.

“I feel good about being different!” he says with a smile.