Strength Training for Adolescents
How physiotherapy strengthening programs support adolescents with autism or intellectual disability to build strength, improve movement and gain confidence.
Written by Pavan, Physiotherapist.
Adolescence is a big window for physical development. In young people with disabilities such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or an Intellectual Disability, building strength, coordination and confidence in movement can take extra support.
Physiotherapy helps adolescents build the physical skills they need for everyday activities, sport, school and community life. Many are moving from school to work, where safe manual handling and injury prevention matter. At Square One Therapy Hub in Kogarah, our physiotherapists build strengthening programs with adolescents and their families across the St George region and wider Sydney — matched to each person's goals and built to be achievable.
Why strength development can be challenging
Young people with a disability are more likely to have gross motor delay, which can impact strength and movement. These may include:
- Reduced muscle strength
- Lower endurance
- Delayed motor skill development
- Coordination difficulties
- Reduced confidence with physical activity
- Sensory processing differences affecting movement
These challenges can make running, climbing stairs, playing sports or working a job more difficult. Physiotherapy helps address them through structured, supportive strengthening programs. The Australian Physiotherapy Association has more information on the role of physiotherapy in supporting people with disability.
What a strengthening program can do
With a physiotherapist guiding it, strength training can help with:
- Improved muscle tone and strength — low muscle tone is common in young people with developmental delays.
- Improved balance and coordination — single-leg and similar exercises challenge balance.
- Increased participation in sport and activity — confidence grows alongside strength.
- Injury prevention — proper lifting technique reduces injury risk at work and in sport.
- Confidence — managing a barbell or a box jump changes how a teenager sees themselves.
What can a strength program involve?
Programs are tailored to each adolescent's needs, interests and abilities. Sessions may include:
- Bodyweight exercises like squats, lunges and step-ups
- Free weights like dumbbells or kettlebells
- Core strengthening exercises
- Game-based tasks involving competition and timing
- Balance and stability training
A team approach
We design programs with the young person, their family and the rest of their Square One team.
Book a physiotherapy assessment in Kogarah
To learn more about physiotherapy support for adolescents, contact Square One Therapy Hub to book an assessment. We see adolescents at our Kogarah clinic, at home and at school across the St George region and wider Sydney. NDIS welcome — self-managed and plan-managed participants supported.
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