For people living with austim, exercise can sometimes feel like trying to finish a puzzle that’s missing pieces.

But Mark fleming has the tools and experience to make the picture a little more clear.

If there’s one thing the Tampa native knows, it’s exercise. "I studied at the University of Alabama and i got my bachelor’s in exercise science and my master’s in human performance," said Fleming.

Two weeks ago, Mark opened Puzzle Piece Fitness, a gym specifically for clients with autism.

"After individuals with special needs graduated from ot (occupational therapy) and pt (physical therapy), there were no programs that helped their muscle deficiencies."

Exercise can be challenging for those on the spectrum but mark has a special connection with his clients that makes it easier.

"I was officially diagnosed at age 11 with Asperger’s Syndrome. From age 11 on it took a little time to process the situation because out of nowhere I was told I was different."

Recently, Mark realized that his diagnosis allows him to connect with those on the spectrum in a way that some neurotypical people can’t.

"There was this little girl having a melt down and all the behaviorlists had no clue what was going on. And I said you guys don’t heart that? There’s feedback coming from the television. As soon as they turned it off, she stopped having the meltdown. That’s the day I realized, oh wow, I can work with these individuals because I can actually relate to them," said Fleming.

Working out isn’t easy for anyone. But Mark is hopeful he can be the missing piece to the sometimes challenging puzzle that is exercising with autism.

"It makes me proud because I get to see these individuals accomplish things that they and their parents never thought they could. It’s really heart warming."