Prescription of Exercise Programs for Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder: Systematic Review.

This study looked at what types of exercise work best for people with autism. Researchers reviewed 18 studies and found that aerobic exercise (like running) works well when done 3 times per week for 45-60 minutes over 12 weeks. Strength training was effective when done 2 times per week for 10-20 minutes over 12 weeks. The best results came from combining both types of exercise. These programs improved heart health and fitness levels in people with autism.

This systematic review analyzed 18 studies from 1,114 initially identified to determine optimal exercise prescription guidelines for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The review identified that aerobic exercise programs typically lasted 12 weeks with 3 weekly sessions of 45-60 minutes, while muscle strength programs averaged 12 weeks with 2 weekly sessions of 10-20 minutes. Assessment protocols included shuttle tests and modified Bruce protocols for cardiovascular fitness, and handgrip strength tests for muscular capacity. Results demonstrated positive effects on cardiorespiratory capacity and hemodynamics, with enhanced benefits when both aerobic and strength training were combined.

The findings provide evidence-based guidelines for adapted sports coaches to develop exercise programs that promote quality of life for individuals with ASD.

Provides evidence-based exercise prescription guidelines for ASD populations. Clinicians can recommend 12-week programs combining aerobic exercise (3x/week, 45-60min) with strength training (2x/week, 10-20min). The specific parameters offer practical guidance for developing structured exercise interventions to improve cardiovascular health and overall fitness in individuals with autism.

The review included only 18 studies from over 1,000 initially identified, suggesting limited high-quality evidence. Sample size across included studies is not reported, making it difficult to assess the robustness of findings. The heterogeneity of assessment protocols may limit comparability across studies.

Physical exercise offers health benefits for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). However, the literature on recommendations for exercise prescription is still limited. This study aims to identify the most beneficial type of exercise program and present the most effective guidelines for its prescription in individuals with ASD. A systematic review was carried out using the ERIC, Web of Science, PsycINFO, PubMed and Scopus databases in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines.

Of a total of 1114 studies, 18 were considered eligible. Overall, the type of programs included aerobic exercise sessions with an average duration of 12 weeks, with 3 weekly sessions of 45 to 60 min. The assessment included the shuttle test protocol, the progressive cardiovascular endurance running protocol and the modified Bruce protocol. For the muscle strength exercises, the sessions lasted an average of 12 weeks, with 2 weekly sessions of 10 to 20 min, including 2 to 4 exercises, 1 to 3 sets, with 6 to 12 repetitions.

The assessments included the handgrip strength test, the modified curve-up test and the push-up test. The programs had positive effects on cardiorespiratory capacity and hemodynamics, indicating that the benefits of training increase when both capacities are combined. This study provides useful guidelines for adapted sports coaches to prescribe exercise programs aimed at promoting quality of life in individuals with ASD.