The Numbers Tell a Story: Repping for Rylan and Celebrating Neurodiversity

Repping for Rylan is an annual fundraising event at Strength Haven that gives us an opportunity to celebrate autism awareness and neurodiversity while creating a community space that is inclusive and welcoming to autistic and neurodivergent individuals and their families.

Rylan has long been part of the SHA community and loves any day that includes a trip to the gym—he even requests the gym on days we aren't planning to go! Over the years, Repping for Rylan has supported several local autism organizations. For the past three years, funds raised have directly supported classroom activities for Rylan and his classmates at the ACES Bassett Road Grove Program (formerly ACES SAILS). These funds help provide needed classroom resources and support community outings that reinforce students' individual educational goals, growth, and development.

The Repping for Rylan WOD

25-minute cap

87 Double Unders
7 Deadlifts (275/195)
16 Toes-to-Bar
27 Box Jumps (24/20)
200m Run
44 Double Unders
7 Deadlifts (275/195)
32 Box Jumps (24/20)
29 Double Unders
400m Run
19 Toes-to-Bar
8 Deadlifts (275/195)

The workout may look a little random, but that's intentional. Mixed into the numbers is Rylan's birthday (7/7/2008) and the movements were chosen to reflect some of the things Rylan loved doing when we first developed the workout: running, jumping, and swinging. And, of course, we threw in some heavy deadlifts for Mom. 😉

The numbers don't follow a neat or predictable pattern, and in many ways, that's the point. The workout represents the spectrum and recognizes that autistic and neurodivergent people are individuals. Strengths, needs, abilities, and growth can look very different from one person to another, and development doesn't always follow a predictable path.

Repping for Rylan swag is available for pre-order through October 9! This year, for the first time, we're offering Repping for Rylan sweatshirts for $45, which includes a donation to the fundraiser. If you'd rather skip the swag, donations are always welcome and greatly appreciated. Sweatshirt pre-orders can be sent directly here with "R4R" and any size details in the comment section. You can also chat with us at the gym about other ways to donate.

We look forward to seeing everyone at SHA on October 24 to take on the Repping for Rylan WOD, celebrate Rylan, and celebrate a community where everyone belongs.