Effectiveness of a Technology Based Physical Activity Program in Adults with Intellectual Disabilities

Abstract

Physical activity of individuals with intellectual disabilities (ID) is lower compared to their peers without ID. This decreased physical activity places individuals with ID at risk to be overweight or obese, have low cardiorespiratory fitness, and decreased muscular strength. The purpose of this study was to determine if a Nintendo Wii based exercise program is as effective as traditional exercise program for individuals with ID. Participants included were 14 individuals with ID between the ages of 18-25 years old. Individuals were randomly placed into two groups: Nintendo Wii Fit and Traditional exercise. After randomization participants completed a pre-test consisting of one-repetition maximum leg press and chest press along with a 20m PACER test. The training occurred 60 minutes, once per week for eight weeks. At post-test independent samples t-test showed a significant time effect for Leg Press (p=0.003). Comparing post-test values from the Wii group to the traditional group, there was no significant difference for the PACER (p=0.101) or Chest Press (p=0.077). Participants in the Wii group showed greater improvement in the Leg Press (p=0.009). The Wii was as effective as traditional exercise for adults with intellectual disabilities.