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The physical activity patterns of children with autism
Megan Macdonald1, Phil Esposito, Dale Ulrich
1School of Biological & Population Health Sciences, Exercise & Sport Science Program, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, USA. megan.macdonald@oregonstate.edu.
BMC Research Notes
|October 20, 2011
Summary
Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) become less physically active as they age. Physical activity interventions are needed to address this decline in activity levels for children with ASD.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Developmental Psychology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Motor deficits are increasingly recognized in autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
- Physical activity patterns in children with ASD remain under-researched.
- This study focuses on the physical activity of 72 children with ASD aged 9-18 years.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the physical activity patterns of children with autism spectrum disorder.
- To investigate how physical activity changes with age in children with ASD.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study design.
- Analysis of physical activity levels in 72 children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.
- Comparison of activity patterns across different age groups within the ASD population.
Main Results:
- Significant differences observed in time spent on moderate-to-vigorous physical activity versus sedentary activity.
- Older children with autism spectrum disorder exhibit significantly lower physical activity levels compared to younger children.
- Physical activity patterns in children with ASD show a similar age-related trend to neurotypical peers.
Conclusions:
- Physical activity deficits in children with ASD require targeted interventions and programs.
- Understanding age-related changes in physical activity is crucial for developing effective support strategies.
- Further research is warranted to explore the benefits of physical activity and refine interventions for children with ASD.
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