The implementation of a fitness program for children with disabilities: a clinical case report

The purpose of this report is to describe a community-based fitness program developed and implemented for children with disabilities. Several outcomes are reported for one of the participants, J, an 11-year-old girl with hypotonia and mild mental retardation, to illustrate the strengths and limitations of this program and to help guide clinicians and researchers in developing and critically assessing the effectiveness of similar programs.

The fitness program, called "Off the Couch," (OTC) was provided in six-week sessions for one hour per week. Outcomes examined included the energy expenditure index (EEI), rating of perceived exertion (RPE), maximum running velocity, and the overall daily activity level of the child and the number of exercise sessions that the child participated in over a two-week time period. J demonstrated a reduction in EEI and a slight improvement in maximum running velocity. Activity level remained at a relatively high level. The program is discussed with respect to feasibility in a clinical setting, suggestions for similar programs and areas for related research. J's outcomes are discussed in terms of their functional relevance.