The effectiveness of video-based exercise training program for people with intellectual disability: a multicenter...

Area of Science:

• Exercise Science
• Disability Studies
• Rehabilitation Medicine

Background:

• Individuals with intellectual disability often experience challenges in physical and balance performance.
• Tailored exercise interventions are crucial for improving functional abilities and quality of life in this population.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of a specially designed video-based exercise program on physical and balance performance in adults with intellectual disability.

Main Methods:

• A multicenter controlled trial involving 180 participants with intellectual disability.
• Participants were assigned to either an 8-week video-based exercise group (twice weekly) or a control group receiving usual care.
• Exercises were adapted for varying mobility levels, incorporating music and animation for engagement. Assessments included the 30-s chair stand, 4-m walk test, and balance tests.

Main Results:

• The exercise group showed significant improvements in chair stand repetitions, chair stand duration, 4-m walk time, and the 6-min walk test (P < 0.05).
• Approximately 39% of participants in the exercise group demonstrated significant improvements in static balance.
• No significant differences were observed between the exercise and control groups for balance measures.

Conclusions:

• An 8-week video-based exercise program positively impacted physical performance in adults with intellectual disability.
• The program shows potential as an accessible and engaging intervention to enhance physical function in this population.