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Exercise as an Adjunctive Lifestyle Intervention for Psychiatric Comorbidities in Autism Spectrum Disorder
Emmanuela Ojoagefu Egwu1, Emmanuel Kodizuru Chukwuemeka2, Tejiri Napoleon2
1Department of Medicine and Surgery, Bowen University, Iwo, Osun, Nigeria. egwuemmanuela@gmail.com.
Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders
|July 25, 2026
Summary
Structured physical exercise can help manage psychiatric comorbidities in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Exercise interventions show promise in reducing anxiety, improving mood, and enhancing attention in individuals with ASD.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychiatry
- Exercise Science
Background:
- Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) often presents with psychiatric comorbidities like anxiety and depression, significantly impacting quality of life.
- Current treatments for ASD comorbidities have limitations, including side effects and accessibility issues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review structured physical exercise as an adjunctive intervention for psychiatric comorbidities in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
- To assess the effectiveness of exercise in improving mood, attention, and behavioral regulation in individuals with ASD.
Main Methods:
- A scoping review of peer-reviewed literature on exercise interventions in ASD populations (pediatric and adult).
- Included studies encompassed aerobic, resistance, mind-body, and community-based exercise programs reporting on psychiatric and behavioral comorbidities.
Main Results:
- Exercise participation correlated with reduced anxiety and internalizing symptoms, improved mood regulation, and enhanced attention and executive functioning, particularly in children and adolescents.
- Additional benefits included better behavioral regulation, increased social engagement, and improved adaptive functioning.
- Evidence is limited by small, heterogeneous samples, varied intervention protocols, and insufficient long-term data.
Conclusions:
- Structured exercise is a safe, accessible adjunctive therapy for ASD care, potentially improving psychiatric outcomes and well-being.
- Future research needs standardized reporting, longitudinal designs, and individualized approaches considering sensory and cognitive profiles.
- Integrating exercise into clinical pathways could enhance overall care for individuals with ASD.
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