As fitness leaders, we must recognize that fitness instructors and participants come from all walks of life. What are actions we can take to find, hire, support, and motivate instructors and applicants with disabilities? Are our instructors trained and prepared to create an accepting, comfortable, and positive environment for all participants?

I’m so grateful to have had the chance to meet with Matthew Alexander, an inspirational cycling instructor who completed his certification to teach cycling at the age of 17. While that may be a feat in itself, Matthew has also grown up with Autism. I am excited to dive into some of the challenges Matthew has overcome and dive deep into his honest recommendations on how managers can do a better job of opening their doors to hiring instructors and attracting clients with disabilities.

Follow Matthew on Instagram: @matthewafitpro 

Here are some of Matthew's written and spoken works:

https://www.structclub.com/blog/getting-to-know-matthew-alexander

https://www.liherald.com/stories/bellmorite-seeks-to-make-gyms-more-inclusive,128840?

https://spinning.com/spinlife/spinning-instructor-matthew-alexander-personalizes-covid/

https://spinning.com/spinlife/matt-alexander-helps-those-with-autism-through-spinning/

https://spinning.com/spinlife/teaching-students-with-autism/

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/eric-chessen-matthew-alexander-autism-differently-abled/id1599043960?i=1000564082681

https://podcasts.bcast.fm/e/rnkymmvn

https://open.spotify.com/episode/2xktqJ7buy7KewXRtm9Tfx?si=a8PvJDeMSUGjzfexFEVlsg

https://open.spotify.com/episode/3k4vWh16DdEu4n945VhtwR?si=sPRCwFjyQpih-K9UzaCHtg

https://bronx.news12.com/owners-of-fitness-centers-across-nyc-sign-letter-to-mayor-urging-for-return-of-indoor-classes

https://bronx.news12.com/owners-of-fitness-centers-across-nyc-sign-letter-to-mayor-urging-for-return-of-indoor-classes

www.stacialden.com