The Effects of a Video-Enhanced Schedule on Exercise Behavior

Research focusing on physical exercise and individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is limited. Activity- and video-enhanced schedules have successfully increased leisure, academic, social, and daily living skills for individuals with ASD and may be effective in increasing exercise. We evaluated the effects of a video-enhanced schedule presented on an iPad® on exercise behavior with adolescents with ASD using a multiple probe across participants design. Specifically, the effects of a video-enhanced exercise schedule with graduated guidance on independent schedule-following behavior and on-task behavior was evaluated. Participants acquired a video-enhanced exercise schedule and remained on task; we also successfully faded proximity from the participant. The skills generalized to a novel exercise and setting and maintained over time. The procedures were reported to be socially acceptable by stakeholders. Individuals with ASD are more likely to live sedentary lifestyles, have poor diets and sleep, and be overweight. We evaluated the effects of a video-enhanced exercise schedule presented on an iPad® with individuals with ASD on independent schedule following behavior and on-task behavior. We also attempted to fade proximity from an instructor and assessed generalization, maintenance, and social validity. Individuals quickly acquired the exercise schedule and remained on task. Distance from an instructor was increased, skills generalized to novel exercises and locations and maintained over time, and the procedures and outcomes were reported favorable by stakeholders. Practitioners should continue to evaluate the effects of video-enhanced schedules on exercise behavior and determine how to fade the videos.