For individuals with developmental disabilities, fitness is often viewed as a means to improve physical health, but its benefits extend far beyond strength and endurance. According to James Anderson, a certified strength and conditioning specialist and founder of Better Everyday Athletics, the right approach to movement can help people develop confidence, establish healthier routines, build physical skills, and work toward greater independence. However, traditional fitness programs are not always designed to accommodate the needs of people who learn, communicate, or experience the world differently. Anderson’s philosophy, outlined in his Better Every Day Method, is rooted in five principles that prioritize the individual over the program.
The first principle, "meet people where they are," underscores the importance of understanding each person’s unique abilities, needs, and starting point. Rather than forcing someone into a conventional fitness regimen, Anderson’s approach begins with an initial consultation to assess these factors, then adapts movements and exercises progressively. This individualized strategy ensures that fitness is not about conformity but about meaningful progress.
The second principle, "move with purpose," highlights that movement can serve goals beyond exercise. Anderson’s experience in behavioral health revealed that purposeful movement can integrate into a person’s daily routine and support broader life improvements. For instance, a client might use movement to manage stress or develop a sense of accomplishment, which can translate into other areas of life.
Third, "build better habits" emphasizes sustainable progress over quick fixes. Anderson notes that progress can take many forms: getting stronger, gaining confidence, establishing a routine, learning a new skill, or becoming more independent. Even small victories, such as discovering "I can do this," are significant. This principle recognizes that fitness is a journey, not a destination.
Fourth, "strengthen the whole family" stems from Anderson’s personal experience as a father. He found that maintaining his own fitness helped him manage the stresses of parenthood, which reinforced the idea that healthy habits have a ripple effect on the entire family. This concept is central to his book, Legacy of Health: A Parent's Guide to Building Strength, Energy, and Longevity for the Next Generation, which encourages parents to model healthy behaviors for their children.
Finally, "create lifelong independence" is the ultimate goal. Anderson aims to help individuals recognize their capabilities and build from there. Testimonials from parents and professionals illustrate the impact: one parent reported her daughter gained "confidence and empowerment," while another described her son progressing from struggling to run a quarter mile to running half a mile nonstop and riding his bike to the store. Julie McNeil, Day Program Director at FRIENDS of Broomfield, praised Anderson’s patience and creativity in understanding individual needs.
The implications of this approach are significant. For individuals with disabilities, inclusive fitness can be a gateway to greater autonomy and quality of life. For families, it offers a way to support their loved ones while also fostering their own health. For the fitness industry, it challenges the one-size-fits-all model and calls for more adaptive and empathetic practices. Anderson’s message is straightforward: start with the person, not the program. By meeting people where they are and moving with purpose, everyone can work toward becoming a little better every day.
To learn more about James Anderson and Better Everyday Athletics, visit mybettereveryday.org. To purchase Legacy of Health, visit Amazon. Organizations interested in bringing Anderson for a keynote or workshop can visit mybettereveryday.org/speaking-engagements.
