Study of Adaptive Physical Activity Effects on Fitness and Movement Skills in Teens with Intellectual Disabilities

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to explore adaptive physical activity for young people with intellectual disabilities, focusing on understanding the theory, practice, and strategies for exercise suited to this group. It studies their sports and health needs, investigates adaptive physical activities empirically, and seeks ways to support their scientific exercise and social integration. The goal is to improve fitness, fundamental movement skills, and overall health for these students. Participants are divided into two groups one receives a six-month adaptive physical activity program involving aerobic exercise three times a week at 40-80% maximum heart rate, with family support to encourage exercise. The other group continues their usual physical education and daily habits without changes. The study is randomized and triple-blinded to compare the effects of these approaches on health-related fitness. Throughout the study, researchers assess muscular strength, endurance, body mass index, body fat percentage, flexibility, cardiopulmonary fitness, and fundamental movement skills using standardized tests over six months. They also measure sleep quality, physical activity levels, quality of life, enjoyment of physical activity, autism symptom severity, and sleep disturbances. This comprehensive evaluation aims to understand how adaptive physical activity impacts health and daily functioning in students with intellectual disabilities.

Effects of Adaptive Physical Activity on Health-related Fitness of Students With Intellectual Disabilitiesdisability