In Barcelona, a unique judo program is making a meaningful difference for young people with autism spectrum disorder (TEA). Every Wednesday, participants gather at the Centre Esportiu Municipal Olímpic Vall d’Hebron for adapted training sessions designed to support their development.
The program, which has been running for several years, brings together youth aged 12 to 19 who have TEA. Under the guidance of judo instructors and volunteers, they practice everything from basic salutations and traditional postures to partner exercises, group activities, strength training and aerobic workouts.
Esther Escolán, mother of participant Emma Osorio, shared her initial skepticism about the sport. “I thought judo was only about reproducing certain postures,” she explained. “But during the sessions, I saw them running, jumping, and engaging in dynamic movement.”
Emma has participated in the program for three years, joining approximately 17 other young people with TEA in each session. Her mother recalled what convinced her to enroll Emma: watching videos from previous editions where “all the participants were having a lot of fun.”
Beyond physical activity, the program emphasizes social development—a key area of challenge for many individuals with TEA. “These are youths who often struggle with social relationships,” noted Escolán. “Having a structured environment helps tremendously in working on this type of relationship.”
The adapted nature of the sessions addresses a significant barrier faced by families: the lack of extracurricular activities specifically designed for youth with TEA. When families discover programs like this judo initiative, they actively work to ensure their children can participate.
Instructors Cristina Calderer and Esther Escolán lead the sessions, which follow a consistent structure each week. Participants engage in judo-specific techniques although also building confidence through group interaction and physical challenges suited to their abilities.
The program represents one approach to addressing the limited availability of adapted recreational opportunities for youth with neurodevelopmental differences. By modifying traditional judo instruction to accommodate diverse learning and sensory needs, the Vall d’Hebron center creates an inclusive space where participants can develop both physical and social competencies.
As awareness grows about the benefits of adapted sports programs for youth with TEA, initiatives like this Barcelona judo class demonstrate how structured physical activity can support broader developmental goals when tailored to individual needs.
The next session is scheduled for Wednesday at the Centre Esportiu Municipal Olímpic Vall d’Hebron, continuing the weekly routine that has develop into an important part of participants’ lives.
For families seeking adapted sports opportunities in Barcelona, programs like this judo initiative offer a verified option where youth with TEA can engage in physical activity while developing important social skills in a supportive environment.
Would you like to share your experience with adapted sports programs for youth with autism? We welcome your thoughts in the comments below.
