Today we’d like to introduce you to Arlene Lopez Martinez.
Arlene, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
Hmmm… I’ve never shared the beginning of my story, but it’s a part of me that deserves to be acknowledged and honored. My father was a renowned Attorney and Consul and my mother, a celebrated athlete, with an undeniable magnetism. Their magnanimous contributions to the world were only rivaled by the unconditional love they had for my little brother and me.
Two months shy of my second birthday, a drunk driver hit our vehicle, killing my mother, father and eight month old brother. Miraculously, I was virtually unscathed, except for a small scar on my forehead. With so many people, it takes a major event to motivate and appreciate life. I don’t remember NOT being truly grateful for every single day.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I’d have to admit that my biggest obstacle has been myself. Initially thinking I could do everything, without mentors and guidance. When I learned how to listen more and talk less, it was life-changing. I’m grateful to do what I love and to be constantly surrounded by the most powerfully wonderful energy.
It’s been said many times and many different ways, but it is so unbelievably true: There will ALWAYS be obstacles and challenges, but how you react to them is the only true control you have on determining the future.
I’m blessed that proud moments are a daily occurrence with my clients. If I had to choose one specifically, it would be when one of my teen clients, who had previously been homeschooled, was not only able to attend school but also joined and thrived in group sports!! With my program, his and his family’s ongoing progress is tremendous and has truly changed the trajectory of his life.
Please tell us about your business.
Kidisthenics LLC specializes in creating programs for teens with all abilities, with a primary focus on teenagers with Autism Spectrum Disorder. The teenage years are some of the hardest in general; having ASD amplifies things to a point that, for many reasons, the teens and their parents have a hard time progressing. An additional challenge is that many programs were created for younger children, which have difficulty supporting teens with ASD, as they develop. Approaches need to be teen-specific, with an emphasis on respect and care.
As a child, I felt like I didn’t have a voice, lacking the tools to properly express myself. This is just one aspect of my understanding and connection with the teens, who at times, don’t have a voice.
With over 20 years of experience, I developed a process that takes all aspects into account, then customizes each program, specific to each teenager/family. After an initial assessment, we determine what type of program would be most beneficial and map out a wishlist of goals. This approach has proven to work far better than a typical “timeline/plan” as progress can vary for each teen/family. Managing expectations and being completely transparent is an absolute must on both sides. I include the family in progress, so we work and succeed as a team!
I believe everything happens at the right time. I would have asked for advice and focused on my strengths, while partnering with people who’s strengths happen to be my weaknesses, creating a perfect team!
Within the last year, I’ve partnered with one of my mentors to launch a company that incorporates Kidisthenics as one piece of an entire whole.
She is a very successful business owner, seasoned Executive Consultant, an overall incredible person and has spent her life advancing the Health & Wellness space. Together we’ve created a company that will still help teens & families individually but also focuses on advancements in the way teens with ASD and their families are supported. Current and future generations will benefit from these advancements tremendously, which is more than we could ever ask for.
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
I have a passion for working with special needs children, in particular teenagers, as I strongly feel that incorporating physical activities and exercises effectively address their behaviors and self regulation in addition to their physical health. I especially enjoy working with adolescents as they are going through hormonal and puberty changes and exercising has demonstrated to be effective. Additionally, unlike children and toddlers, not enough attention is provided to teenagers (some are even considered to be lost causes) and I strongly feel that my support can be more impactful and meaningful.
Contact Info:
- Phone: (619)227-9435
- Email: arlene@kidisthenics.org
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