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Time-efficient physical activity intervention for older adolescents with disability: rationale and study protocol for
Toby J Kable1,2,3, Angus A Leahy1,2,3, Jordan J Smith1,2,3
1School of Education, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia.
BMJ Open
|August 10, 2022
Summary
This study tested a school-based physical activity program using high-intensity interval training (HIIT) for adolescents with disabilities. The program improved functional capacity and other health measures in participants.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Exercise Science
- Adolescent Health
Background:
- Physical activity levels significantly decline in adolescence, particularly among individuals with disabilities.
- Schools present an optimal environment for interventions, yet few programs target older adolescents with disabilities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of a school-based physical activity program, incorporating high-intensity interval training (HIIT), on the physical, mental, and cognitive health of older adolescents with disabilities.
Main Methods:
- A two-arm, parallel-group, cluster randomized controlled trial (RCT) involving 300 adolescents (aged 15-19) with disabilities across 30 secondary schools in New South Wales, Australia.
- The intervention group received two weekly HIIT sessions during specialist support classes, focusing on tailored aerobic and muscle-strengthening exercises.
- Outcomes, including functional capacity (primary), physical activity, cognitive function, and quality of life, were assessed at baseline, 6 months, and 9 months.
Main Results:
- The study aims to evaluate the 'Burn 2 Learn adapted' (B2La) intervention, assessing its effects on functional capacity, physical activity, muscular fitness, body composition, cognitive function, quality of life, physical literacy, and classroom on-task behavior.
- Economic and process evaluations will determine cost-effectiveness and program acceptability, implementation, adaptability, and sustainability.
Conclusions:
- This school-based HIIT program, the 'Burn 2 Learn adapted' (B2La) intervention, is designed to enhance the health and well-being of older adolescents with disabilities.
- Findings will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications and stakeholder reports, contributing valuable evidence to the field of inclusive physical activity interventions.
