• Brief Report: A Specialized Fi...

*Result*: Brief Report: A Specialized Fitness Program for Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder Benefits Physical, Behavioral, and Emotional Outcomes

Title:
Brief Report: A Specialized Fitness Program for Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder Benefits Physical, Behavioral, and Emotional Outcomes
Language:
English
Authors:
Scott L. J. Jackson (ORCID 0000-0001-9192-795X), Emily A. Abel, Shara Reimer, James C. McPartland (ORCID 0000-0002-2570-0746)
Source:
Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders. 2024 54(6):2402-2410.
Availability:
Springer. Available from: Springer Nature. One New York Plaza, Suite 4600, New York, NY 10004. Tel: 800-777-4643; Tel: 212-460-1500; Fax: 212-460-1700; e-mail: customerservice@springernature.com; Web site: https://link.springer.com/
Peer Reviewed:
Y
Page Count:
9
Publication Date:
2024
Sponsoring Agency:
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) (DHHS/NIH)
Contract Number:
5T32MH018268
K23MH086785
R21MH091309
U19MH108206
R01MH107426
R01MH100173
Document Type:
*Academic Journal* Journal Articles<br />Reports - Research
Descriptors:
Autism Spectrum Disorders, Children, Youth, Young Adults, Physical Activity Level, Adapted Physical Education, Individualized Programs, Symptoms (Individual Disorders), Physical Fitness
DOI:
10.1007/s10803-022-05646-4
ISSN:
0162-3257
1573-3432
Entry Date:
2024
Accession Number:
EJ1427092
Database:
ERIC

*Further Information*

*Individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) engage in less physical activity than typically-developing peers. This can result in serious negative consequences for individual well-being and may contribute to the physical, behavioral, and emotional challenges associated with ASD. This study explored the potential benefits of trainer-led, individualized, physical fitness sessions specialized for ASD. Eleven individuals (ages 7-24 years) with ASD were assessed at baseline and following 15 fitness sessions. Participants demonstrated improvements in core and lower-body strength and reductions in restricted and repetitive patterns of behavior, along with non-significant but marked reductions in issues with daytime sleepiness. Results suggest the merit of specialized fitness programs and emphasize the need for larger and more rigorous research studies on this topic.*

*As Provided*