In this conversation, Dr. Darian Parker and Eric Chessen discuss the importance of fitness professionals understanding and working with clients on the autism spectrum. They explore the unique challenges faced by individuals with autism, the significance of empathetic communication, and the development of effective fitness protocols tailored to this population.

Eric's Links:

Website: https://www.autismfitness.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theautismfitness/?hl=en

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/TheAutismFitness

Learn More about Dr. Darian:

Website: https://doctordarianparker.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darianparker/

Dr. Darian's Affiliates:

Relax the Back

Relax The Back® embraces a holistic approach for a healthier lifestyle grounded in 40 years of proven expertise. Live wellness is our commitment to helping you transform your routine, your space, and your life, with solutions that elevate your physical and mental well-being. Use this link: Relax the Back level up your well being.

Blumaka

Run better. Move smarter. Save 20%.
Blumaka insoles are built for performance and sustainability, offering elite-level cushioning, grip, and durability with up to 85% recycled foam. Use code FSF20 for 20% off: https://blumakastore.myshopify.com/discount/FSF20

Stick Mobility

Get your flexibility back and prevent injuries with Stick Mobility. Training Sticks improve range of motion, muscle activation, coordination, and body awareness to build a strong foundation for better movement. Go to this Link or copy to your browser https://stickmobility.com/darian-parker and use the discount code: 1CEC828F154 to get 10% off of your purchase.

Hyperice

Grab your Hyperice gear and get 10% off using my affiliate link: https://tidd.ly/4noSOfW
From percussion to compression, elevate your recovery like a pro.Discount applies at checkout.

Riverside

I use Riverside to record my podcast in studio-quality audio and video—right from my browser or phone. Whether you're remote or in-person, it's the easiest way to get crisp, professional results every time. Use my link to sign up for this awesome podcasting platform: https://riverside.sjv.io/QjEWnx

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Autism Fitness

02:47 Eric's Journey into Fitness and Autism

05:59 Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder

09:03 Common Challenges in Autism and Fitness

11:52 The Importance of Communication in Training

15:02 The Concept of Masking in Autism

17:57 Developing Effective Protocols for Training

21:06 The PAC Profile Methodology

24:10 Motivation and Engagement in Autism Fitness

26:27 Connecting Through Shared Interests

28:56 The Importance of Communication in Coaching

32:05 The Art of Coaching: Less is More

36:04 Understanding Individual Needs in Training

39:58 Contextualizing Fitness for Different Ages

42:56 Final Thoughts on Working with Diverse Populations

Lori Oliver, Co-Founder & CEO of The Inactive Company, a sleep performance brand dedicated to developing technology and tools that enhance rest and recovery for everyone. Its innovative sleep mask, Inactivators™, is a scientifically backed solution to improve sleep. She has spent over 25 years as a veteran in brand and product building, driving business for corporate, consulting, and entrepreneurial companies from global to grassroots.

Jill MacRae is a marketing executive with over 25 years of experience in building businesses and brands across B2B, B2C, and non-profit sectors. She is the founder and principal of JMACRAE GROUP, a boutique consulting firm that advises and collaborates with companies to formulate and implement strategic initiatives for growth and sustainability. Additionally, she is a co-founder of The Inactive Company, a sleep performance brand dedicated to developing technology and tools that enhance rest and recovery for everyone. Its innovative sleep mask, Inactivators™, is a scientifically backed solution to improve sleep.

Lori and Jill's Links:

https://inactiveco.com/

Learn More about Dr. Darian:

Website: https://doctordarianparker.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darianparker/

Dr. Darian's Affiliates:

Relax the Back

Relax The Back® embraces a holistic approach for a healthier lifestyle grounded in 40 years of proven expertise. Live wellness is our commitment to helping you transform your routine, your space, and your life, with solutions that elevate your physical and mental well-being. Use this link: Relax the Back level up your well being.

Blumaka

Run better. Move smarter. Save 20%.
Blumaka insoles are built for performance and sustainability, offering elite-level cushioning, grip, and durability with up to 85% recycled foam. Use code FSF20 for 20% off: https://blumakastore.myshopify.com/discount/FSF20

Stick Mobility

Get your flexibility back and prevent injuries with Stick Mobility. Training Sticks improve range of motion, muscle activation, coordination, and body awareness to build a strong foundation for better movement. Go to this Link or copy to your browser https://stickmobility.com/darian-parker and use the discount code: 1CEC828F154 to get 10% off of your purchase.

Hyperice

Grab your Hyperice gear and get 10% off using my affiliate link: https://tidd.ly/4noSOfW
From percussion to compression, elevate your recovery

Dr. Devin Trachman PT, DPT is a Board-Certified Clinical Specialist in Orthopaedic Physical Therapy and has gone additional training/certifications in manual therapy, trigger point dry needling, Astym therapy, and pelvic health. She has been practicing as a physical therapist for over 11 years and opened Physical Therapy Central - West Edmond almost 6 years ago.

Dr. Devin's Links:

Instagram & TikTok: @devintrachman_dpt

Author Page: https://confluenthealth.com/resources/author/devin-trachman/

Learn More about Dr. Darian:

Website: https://doctordarianparker.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darianparker/

Dr. Darian's Affiliates:

Relax the Back

Relax The Back® embraces a holistic approach for a healthier lifestyle grounded in 40 years of proven expertise. Live wellness is our commitment to helping you transform your routine, your space, and your life, with solutions that elevate your physical and mental well-being. Use this link: Relax the Back level up your well being.

Blumaka

Run better. Move smarter. Save 20%.
Blumaka insoles are built for performance and sustainability, offering elite-level cushioning, grip, and durability with up to 85% recycled foam. Use code FSF20 for 20% off: https://blumakastore.myshopify.com/discount/FSF20

Stick Mobility

Get your flexibility back and prevent injuries with Stick Mobility. Training Sticks improve range of motion, muscle activation, coordination, and body awareness to build a strong foundation for better movement. Go to this Link or copy to your browser https://stickmobility.com/darian-parker and use the discount code: 1CEC828F154 to get 10% off of your purchase.

Hyperice

Grab your Hyperice gear and get 10% off using my affiliate link: https://tidd.ly/4noSOfW
From percussion to compression, elevate your recovery like a pro.Discount applies at checkout.

Riverside

I use Riverside to record my podcast in studio-quality audio and video—right from my browser or phone. Whether you're remote or in-person, it's the easiest way to get crisp, professional results every time. Use my link to sign up for this awesome podcasting platform: https://riverside.sjv.io/QjEWnx

Chapters

00:00 Understanding Digital Posture Dysfunction

02:56 Symptoms and Effects of Poor Posture

06:09 The Impact of Technology on Posture

08:58 Posture and Athletic Performance

12:01 Movement Dysfunction and Assessment

14:55 Practical Solutions for Postural Improvement

22:13 Functional Movement Assessments

23:59 Implementing Corrective Strategies

27:55 Behavioral Changes for Better Posture

29:48 The Importance of Neck Strength

34:51 Dynamic Movement and Hip Health

40:53 Conclusion and Resources

In this essential episode, Dr. Darian Parker sits down with footwear innovator Stuart Jenkins to unpack a topic often overlooked by fitness professionals—shoes as performance equipment, not just fashion. Together, they explore how improper footwear can lead to chronic injuries, reduced performance, and poor biomechanics—and what fit pros must understand to better support their clients.

From the hidden importance of insoles and their role in enhancing stability and power transfer, to the science behind shoe longevity and personalized fit based on foot anatomy, this episode delivers real-world insights that every coach and trainer can apply immediately. Jenkins also shares breakthrough innovations in non-slip insole technology and sustainability practices reshaping the industr

Blumaka was founded in 2021 by Stuart Jenkins, a life-long innovator and 40-year veteran of the footwear industry. His innovation work has led to hundreds of millions in cost savings and driven hundreds of millions in revenue. He holds over a dozen patents and is credited with discovering HOKA before it had sold 1000 shoes and was instrumental in Deckers acquisition of the brand.

Jenkins created Blumaka in response to the decades of wastefulness he had observed in the footwear industry. The company is on a mission to deliver high-performance, high-comfort products while shifting the paradigm on products made from recycled materials.

Stuart's Links:

Website: blumaka.com.

Website: Fleksfootwear.com

Learn More about Dr. Darian:

Website: https://doctordarianparker.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darianparker/

Learn More about Dr. Darian:

Website: https://doctordarianparker.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darianparker/

Dr. Darian's Affiliates:

Blumaka

Run better. Move smarter. Save 20%.
Blumaka insoles are built for performance and sustainability, offering elite-level cushioning, grip, and durability with up to 85% recycled foam. Use code FSF20 for 20% off: https://blumakastore.myshopify.com/discount/FSF20

Stick Mobility

Get your flexibility back and prevent injuries with Stick Mobility. Training Sticks improve range of motion, muscle activation, coordination, and body awareness to build a strong foundation for better movement. Go to this Link or copy to your browser https://stickmobility.com/darian-parker and use the discount code: 1CEC828F154 to get 10% off of your purchase.

Hyperice

Grab your Hyperice gear and get 10% off using my affiliate link: https://tidd.ly/4noSOfW
From percussion to compression, elevate your recovery like a pro.Discount applies at checkout.

Riverside

I use Riverside to record my podcast in studio-quality audio and video—right from my browser or phone. Whether you're remote or in-person, it's the easiest way to get crisp, professional results every time. Use my link to sign up for this awesome podcasting platform: https://riverside.sjv.io/QjEWnx

Trainer Talk is a recurring segment on The Far Side of Fitness Podcast, where personal trainers come together to tackle unique, controversial, and under-discussed topics in personal training. Each episode features a rotating panel of trainers along with hosts, Dr. Darian Parker, Caroline Turnbull and Julia Suozzi.

Caroline and Julia's Links:

IG: ⁠Mobius⁠

⁠Mobius Calendar⁠

Join the Mobius Waitlist: ⁠Mobius Waitlist ⁠

Learn More about Dr.Darian:

Website: https://doctordarianparker.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darianparker/

Dr. Darian's Affiliates:

Stick MobilityGet your flexibility back and prevent injuries with Stick Mobility. Training Sticks improve range of motion, muscle activation, coordination, and body awareness to build a strong foundation for better movement. Go to this Link or copy to your browser https://stickmobility.com/darian-parker and use the discount code: 1CEC828F154 to get 10% off of your purchase.

HypericeGrab your Hyperice gear and get 10% off using my affiliate link: https://tidd.ly/4noSOfWFrom percussion to compression, elevate your recovery like a pro.Discount applies at checkout.

RiversideI use Riverside to record my podcast in studio-quality audio and video—right from my browser or phone. Whether you're remote or in-person, it's the easiest way to get crisp, professional results every time. Use my link to sign up for this awesome podcasting platform: https://riverside.sjv.io/QjEWnx

The Fitness Mentor Network

Looking to elevate your fitness career to the next level? Use the code MENTORFALL15 to get 15% off The Fitness Mentor Network's 6 week mentorship cohorts or 1:1 mentorship programs. Click here to learn more about the Fitness Mentor Netwo

In this episode, I sit down with former YouTube exec, David Sherman-Presser, to uncover 3 powerful strategies fitness coaches can use to grow and monetize their channels. Learn how to stand out in a crowded fitness niche, create thumbnails that actually get clicks, and use YouTube like the gym — with consistency and purpose.

David Sherman-Presser is a YouTube monetization and growth strategist with nearly seven years of insider experience building monetization products at YouTube. As the founder of Structure Creation Consulting, he helps creators and media brands turn content into scalable, high-revenue businesses by leveraging deep platform expertise. A lifelong fitness and wellness enthusiast, David brings both strategic precision and personal passion to every client engagement.

💡 Don’t miss this if you’re serious about building your brand and business on YouTube!

🎧 Subscribe for more fitness business growth tips: https://www.youtube.com/@TheFarSideofFitness

David's Links:

Website - https://structurecreation.com/

Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-sherman-presser/

Learn More about Dr. Darian:

Website: https://doctordarianparker.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darianparker/

Dr. Darian's Affiliates:

Stick Mobility

Get your flexibility back and prevent injuries with Stick Mobility. Training Sticks improve range of motion, muscle activation, coordination, and body awareness to build a strong foundation for better movement. Go to this Link or copy to your browser https://stickmobility.com/darian-parker and use the discount code: 1CEC828F154 to get 10% off of your purchase.

Hyperice

Grab your Hyperice gear and get 10% off using my affiliate link: https://tidd.ly/4noSOfW
From percussion to compression, elevate your recovery like a pro.Discount applies at checkout.

Riverside

I use Riverside to record my podcast in studio-quality audio and video—right from my browser or phone. Whether you're remote or in-person, it's the easiest way to get crisp, professional results every time. Use my link to sign up for this awesome podcasting platform: https://riverside.sjv.io/QjEWnx

The Fitness Mentor Network

Looking to elevate your fitness career to the next level? Use the code MENTORFALL15 to get 15% off The Fitness Mentor Network's 6 week mentorship cohorts or 1:1 mentorship programs. Click here to learn more about the Fitness Mentor Network

Dr. Clayton Skaggs is the founder and CEO of the Central Institute for Human Performance and the founder of the Karel Lewit Clinic and Curious Gap Labs. In addition to his clinical career, Skaggs has been on post-doctoral and research faculties of eight national and international universities including leading a National Institute of Health (NIH) randomized trial that resulted in a publication of one of the largest studies of low back pain in pregnant women. He has worked with thousands of elite athletes, military professionals, and executives and consults individuals from around the world for unresolved pain or injury. Dr. Skaggs is also the author of The Power of Doing What Matters, a book dedicated to helping people build mind-body resilience for life.

Connect with Clayton:

Website: powerofdoingwhatmatters.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/clayton-skaggs

Connect with the Central Institute for Human Performance

Website: cihp.com

Connect with Curious Gap Website: Curiousgap.com

Learn More about Dr. Darian:

Website: https://doctordarianparker.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darianparker/

Dr. Darian's Affiliates:

Stick Mobility

Get your flexibility back and prevent injuries with Stick Mobility. Training Sticks improve range of motion, muscle activation, coordination, and body awareness to build a strong foundation for better movement. Go to this Link or copy to your browser https://stickmobility.com/darian-parker and use the discount code: 1CEC828F154 to get 10% off of your purchase.

Hyperice

Grab your Hyperice gear and get 10% off using my affiliate link: https://tidd.ly/4noSOfW
From percussion to compression, elevate your recovery like a pro.Discount applies at checkout.

Riverside

I use Riverside to record my podcast in studio-quality audio and video—right from my browser or phone. Whether you're remote or in-person, it's the easiest way to get crisp, professional results every time. Use my link to sign up for this awesome podcasting platform: https://riverside.sjv.io/QjEWnx

The Fitness Mentor Network

Looking to elevate your fitness career to the next level? Use the code MENTORFALL15 to get 15% off The Fitness Mentor Network's 6 week mentorship cohorts or 1:1 mentorship programs. Click here to learn more about the Fitness Mentor Network