| Abstract | The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a once-weekly, 60 minute group exercise session on improving overall physical fitness in populations with developmental and intellectual disabilities. 14 adults (8 females, ages 20-23, 84% overweight or obese) from MHMR of Tarrant County and Crowley Independent School District completed the Brockport Physical Fitness Test (BPFT), consisting of a PACER test, sit-ups, push-ups, leg press, and chest press. Although not significantly different, Cohen's d effect size demonstrated small to moderate effects as a result of the training protocol. Following 8 weeks of training, participants improved in the chest press (d=0.34, effect size = -0.33, -14%) and leg press (d=0.44, effect size = -0.37, -17%). Minimal to no improvements were found in the PACER (d=0, effect size = 0.03, 0%), push-ups (d=0, effect size = -0.03, 0%), & sit-ups (d=0.13, effect size = 0.10, 7%). While the sample group was limited, these results suggest that strength can be improved in similar interventions. Further research should examine how cardiovascular performance can be likewise improved, and whether the specificity of training could have resulted in improved muscle strength or better ability to recruit muscles to achieve movements. |
