Autistic Adults Can Get Exercise And Learn Music At Same Time With New 'Conductor-size' Program

LOS ANGELES (CBSLA.com) — Adults with autism are getting exercise and learning music at the same time with a new program instructed by a music conductor.

The program, called "Conductor-size", mixes music with exercise by playing music as participants get a work out by learning to move like an orchestral conductor.

"This is a wonderful way to learn music and to be physical," Professional Musician and Conductor David Dworkin said.

It is reported that people with autism do not get an adequate amount of exercise.

"A lot of them are just unable. Endurance and stamina are very low," Autism Vocational Expert Lauren Klein said. "It's seen across the board in research with individuals on the spectrum, so we really like to try and get them moving."

Participants are also given the opportunity to socialize and have fun at the program.

"For them to show an emotion, happiness, joy, is just a wonderful kind of thing," Dworkin suggested.

Michael Rivera, who participates in the program, says that he is glad he took part in it.

"I really didn't know what to expect basically," Rivera said. "But, you know, surprises can be good."