At the Renzo Gracie Jiu Jitsu Studio in Morgantown, families affected by autism are finding relief and connection through martial arts. West Virginia University kinesiologist and health psychologist Jeanette Garcia leads a jujitsu class designed not only for children with autism spectrum disorder but also for their parents and caregivers.
The focus of these sessions extends beyond the traditional techniques of throws and chokes. Participants engage in meaningful practice that encourages both kids and parents to gain confidence, relaxation, and a sense of fun while training together.
Garcia, now an associate professor in the School of Sport Sciences at the WVU College of Applied Human Sciences, discovered her passion for promoting physical activity among youth with disabilities during her postdoctoral work at Harvard University. There, Garcia witnessed the excitement kids with autism experienced while engaging in a cycling activity that combined physical exercise with a competitive gaming element.
“I saw a lot of benefits beyond increasing physical activity,” Garcia said. This observation sparked a desire to integrate similar elements into programs that enhance physical activity for children with autism.
When she later joined the University of Central Florida, Garcia was approached by local schools and community centers aiming to boost physical activity among youth with autism. She adapted her approach to include structured activities that emphasize social interaction and repetitions. This led to the launching of judo classes in 2017.
“And it was a mess,” she said, reflecting on the initial challenges. “But we got better, and we’ve done at least one round a year since. I’m proud of how far it’s come.”
The classes have since expanded to include youth with Down syndrome and other neurodevelopmental disorders. Recently, they have begun incorporating peer and family support, acknowledging the important role of parental involvement.
“A while back, I did a project comparing engagement in judo classes kids attended by themselves versus classes kids attended with parents,” Garcia said. “I was nervous parents wouldn’t want to do judo and no one would sign up for the family group. I was completely wrong. Everyone wanted the family group.”
Garcia’s findings revealed that when children participated in family classes, attendance improved significantly. Parents often prioritized these classes, seeing them as valuable family engagement.
Recognizing the broader implications of her work, Garcia designed a study to explore the benefits that parents gain from participating in these martial arts sessions. The stress associated with raising a child with autism often leads to adverse health outcomes for caregivers, including higher levels of stress and lack of sleep.
“When parents joined kids for judo classes, they told Garcia they slept better and were much less stressed,” an associate explained.
“Parents reported this was a good way to bond with their kids, that they really enjoyed it and felt the kids were happier and more interactive,” Garcia said.
Children have also experienced positive changes. Some reported increased self-confidence, while others with sensory sensitivities became more comfortable with physical touch while wearing the judo gi.
Garcia is passionate about involving students in her research projects, having never had that opportunity during her own studies. Since she began teaching at WVU in August 2023, she reached out to students interested in her jujitsu program, starting with just a few volunteers.
“But once they started, they loved it. They hadn’t known research could be like this,” she said, noting the enthusiasm that grew among her volunteers.
Today, Garcia has a dedicated team of around 20 volunteers. The rapport built between volunteers and families is gratifying.
“At the end of the day, when we’re watching the parents smiling, the kids hugging — that’s why we’re doing it,” Garcia said.
