A Close Look at the Physical Fitness Levels of Elementary Age Students with Intellectual Disabilities

Abstract

A Close Look at the Physical Fitness Levels of Elementary Age Students with Intellectual DisabilitiesIntroduction: Little is known about the physical fitness levels of school-aged children with intellectual disabilities, when comparing groups of healthy weight and unhealthy weight. Purpose: To compare the fitness levels of healthy weight and unhealthy weight children with intellectual disabilities in three elementary schools in the southeastern United States. Methods: Four fitness measures (PACER, Modified Curl-Ups, Modified Pull-ups, and the Back-Saver Sit-and-Reach) were obtained from 26 youth (10 girls, 16 boys; 10.01 + 1.22). Additionally, fitness levels of students who were overweight/obese were statistically compared with those with healthy weights. Results: A pattern of overall low fitness levels was found in comparison to criterion-referenced standards regarding all of the fitness measures, and students who were overweight/obese performed poorly compared to those with healthy weight. The only statistically significant finding was the comparison of healthy and unhealthy weight groups on the modified pullup. Conclusions: The study suggests a strong need for adaptive physical education and active recess programs that are appropriate for developing the fitness levels of elementary students with intellectual disabilities.