Effects of High Intensity Interval Training on Endurance and Trunk Stability in Children With Down Syndrome

What this Trial Is About

Down Syndrome (DS) is a genetic condition caused by an extra chromosome 21, leading to various cognitive and physical challenges. Children with DS often face motor development difficulties such as low endurance and poor trunk stability due to factors like low muscle tone, loose ligaments, and reduced muscle strength. This study investigates the effects of High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) on improving endurance and trunk stability in children with DS, addressing a gap in research despite known benefits of HIIT in other groups. The study is a randomized controlled trial involving 30 children aged 3 to 14 with confirmed DS. Participants are randomly assigned to two groups: Group A will undergo a structured HIIT program featuring warm-up, high-intensity exercise intervals near maximum effort, moderate-intensity recovery periods, and cool down. Exercises include dumbbell and kettlebell routines, push-ups, squats, jump training, and stationary cycling. Group B will receive routine physical therapy including stretching, range of motion exercises, and low-intensity aerobic workouts. Assessments occur before and after the intervention using endurance and trunk stability tests. Participants will be evaluated using the Six-Minute Walk Test for endurance, the Functional Reach Test for trunk stability, and the Four Square Step Test. Data will be collected at baseline and post-intervention, analyzed with statistical software to compare changes within and between groups. The study also assesses the feasibility and acceptability of the HIIT program. The entire participation period includes baseline evaluation, intervention, and post-intervention assessments over six weeks.

Effects of High Intensity Interval Training in Down Syndrome