Wellbeing and Sports

Neurodivergence and Sports

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 Wellbeing and Sports
Table of Contents

● Definition of Neurodivergence
● Differences
● Neurodivergence and performance
○ Impact of Neurodivergence
■ Challenges
■ Advantages
○ Impact of Sports on people
● Sports better suited for Neurodivergents
● Conclusion

Michael Phelps

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 Wellbeing and Sports
Definition of Neurodivergence

Neurodivergence (Oxford): Divergence in mental or neurological function from what is

considered typical or normal.

Types of divergence:
● ADHD
● Autism
● Aspergers
Others are included in the definition, but need more assistance in living a normal life (e.g.
Schizophrenia, Alzheimers...)

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 Wellbeing and Sports
Neurodivergent vs Neurotypical people

● ADHD
○ Differences in the concentration of certain neurotransmitters
(Dopamine & Serotonin)
○ More prone to depression
○ Executive Dysfunction & Hyperfocus
● Autism
○ Completely different way of thinking and of processing surroundings
○ Communication & Social issues
○ Executive Dysfunction & Distraction
Bill Gates is a famous
figure with ADHD

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 Impact of Neurodivergence
How neurodivergents benefit from exercise

● Autism:
○ lowers stress levels
○ improves sensory responses
○ helps them regulate circadian rhythm
○ increases productivity
○ reduces stimming
○ helps with social interaction
● ADHD:
○ helps focus
○ improves mood
○ can help improve coordination

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 Impact of Neurodivergence
Challenges neurodivergents face

● Autism spectrum:
○ overwhelmed easily
○ trouble socializing
● ADHD:
○ Extra energy
○ focus on enjoyable activities
○ coordination difficulties
○ trouble remembering instructions

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 Impact of Neurodivergence
Sports better suited for Neurodivergents

● ADHD
○ Focus on the need for the individual to be in constant motion (no stop time)
without sacrificing teamwork.
■ Basketball
■ Hockey
■ Soccer/Football
● Autism
○ Better start with sports where communication is not at the center
■ Running & Swimming
■ Skiing & Surfing
■ Indoors Sports
■ Indoor Sports

These lists are neither exhaustive or definitive, interests apply above all.

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 Conclusion
Sports better suited for Neurodivergents

● Being Neurodivergent has advantages and disadvantages.

● Sports let Neurodivergent people weaken certain negative aspects
of their condition.
● Neurodivergents can choose specific sports that let them
emphasize on the strength of their differences too.
● Neurodivergence is not a deterrent at all and just needs to be
learned to lived with healthily.
● Exercise helps neurodivergents work on their social skills.

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 Wellbeing and Sports
References

● ADHD and Neurotransmitters

● ADHD and Sport
● Executive Dysfunction
● Swimming phenom with ADHD & Tourette
● Best sports for ADHD kids
● Exercise & Autism with Mark Flemmings

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Thank you!

END