Al Loren is the bestselling author of Martial Arts On The Autism Spectrum - Practical Tips From Three Decades Of Training Kids and Adults, an empowering book that showcases the benefits of martial arts training for individuals with autism and other neurodivergent traits.
An experienced martial artist, Al has 44 years of training in Karate, Kung Fu, Aikido, Tai Chi, and Jujitsu. He has competed in many martial arts tournaments including the U.S. Open and the World Championships.
Based in San Francisco, California, Al has a large practice teaching Karate, Kung Fu, Tai Chi, and Aikido to neurotypical kids, adults and seniors, as well as individuals with Autism and special needs. He has taught over 35,000 classes with 33 years of full-time teaching experience.
He is well known for his excellence in teaching and professional yet compassionate style and methods.
Al is a graduate of American University in Washington D.C. with a B.A. in the School of International Service.
This one-on-one interview shares Al’s background and experience writing Martial Arts On The Autism Spectrum - Practical Tips From Three Decades Of Training Kids And Adults.
Tell us about Martial Arts On The Autism Spectrum.
Martial Arts On The Autism Spectrum showcases the transformative potential of martial arts in the lives of individuals on the autism spectrum.
Over the years, I have seen that through martial arts training—particularly with a qualified, empathetic instructor—people on the autism spectrum can:
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Build confidence and resilience
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Improve their focus and concentration
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Strengthen their coordination and discipline
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Gain a sense of accomplishment
In the book, I share the benefits and challenges of teaching martial arts to students with autism, along with specific curriculum, student success stories, and teaching philosophies. By sharing my teachings, my goal is to offer valuable guidance to parents, teachers, and anyone interested in understanding the power of martial arts as a therapeutic tool.
Ultimately, my time-tested compassion driven approach is designed to create lasting positive change that permeates every aspect of my students' lives.
What inspired you to write Martial Arts On The Autism Spectrum?
My inspiration for writing this book was to spread the word about martial arts for autism spectrum disorder and other special needs locally, regionally, and globally.
For the past 33 years, I have been teaching martial arts to adults and kids with autism and other special needs. During this time, I have seen martial arts offer an avenue and opportunity for these students to learn, grow, move, and express their individuality while attaining meaningful, long-lasting emotional accomplishments and health benefits.
I’m excited to be on the cutting edge of the autism evolution, following new developments and social insights. Being involved with the creation of programs deemed credible and valuable by professionals in schools, doctors, therapists, and parents has been monumentally rewarding. My goal is to reach as many people as possible in order to enhance the quality of their lives.
How did your background and experience influence your writing?
Playing organized sports from grade school through college led to my interest in martial arts. I was drawn to this specific practice due to its precise physical movements, discipline, and other mind-body benefits.
From 1989 to 1991, I began to feel unfulfilled with my career and started considering alternative career directions. In November 1990, an acquaintance said I would be well qualified to teach martial arts and upon hearing that, I knew immediately that it was the calling I’d been longing for.
In January of 1991, I started teaching martial arts full-time. My first exposure to students with special needs came when a mother asked if I would be interested in teaching two nine-year-old boys with physical and learning challenges. Accepting this proposal turned out to be the beginning of my involvement in the world of autism spectrum disorder. Those early days revealed to me that I had a powerful connection with the autism spectrum demographic. My interactions with them were results-producing, rewarding, and enjoyable.
Today, having trained in martial arts for 44 years and teaching for 33 years, I feel strongly that my life and story would inspire people who have loved ones on the autism spectrum. My practice is well respected and reputable in the industry and my mission is to advance and enhance people’s lives physically, emotionally, and socially.
My deepest hope is that this book will positively uplift the lives of those who are on or involved with the autism spectrum.
What is one message you would like readers to remember?
There are a few key takeaways I would like readers to remember:
For one, martial arts is a powerful and helpful practice for kids and adults on the autism spectrum. It is an investment in the totality of a person's development—physically, emotionally and socially—and can help people on the spectrum make progress and lead more fulfilling, meaningful lives.
Secondly, it is important to have a teacher who is passionate about this area, qualified as a martial artist, and well educated.
Finally, don’t ever give up on or underestimate the capabilities of individuals with autism or other special needs. In my many years of teaching, I have been continually amazed by the resilience and inner strength of my students on the spectrum. They are incredible in so many ways!
Purchasing the Book
Martial Arts On The Autism Spectrum has received positive reviews from well-known literary organizations, experts, and reviewers around the world. Janet Miller, Founder of Project Awareness and Special Sports writes, “Al’s passion is contagious and inspiring…[I] appreciate his dedication to creating opportunities and inclusion for everyone.”
The book is available for sale on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Readers are encouraged to purchase their copy today: https://www.amazon.com/Martial-Arts-Autism-Spectrum-Practical/dp/B0BZ6KG43P
To connect with Al and receive updates about upcoming events and new book releases, visit: allorenmartialarts.com. You can also find Al on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.
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