The Effects of Exercise on Behavior and Fitness in Children With ASD

The Effects of an Exercise Intervention Programme on Behaviour and Fitness Levels in Children With ASD.

This study will examine the effects of a school based exercise intervention programme on the behaviour and fitness levels in children with autism.

This study will examine the effects of a school based exercise intervention programme on the behaviour and fitness levels in children with autism. Local primary schools who have an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) class will be approached to participate in the project. The age profile of the children will be 4-12 years of age and they will have mild-sever levels of autism. The exercise intervention programme will be delivered 3 times per week in the schools over an 8 week period.

Children will be fitness tested to assess the change in fitness levels over the 8 week period. Questionnaires will be given to the parents and teachers of the children at the beginning and at the end of the programme to assess changes in behaviour levels as a result of the exercise intervention programme.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder

Exclusion Criteria:

• Any medical condition which excludes the child from partaking in exercise