Physical fitness level of students with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Down Syndrome, and other intellectual disabilities in an educational assistance institution

Abstract

Introducction: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Down Syndrome, and intellectual disabilities are the primary conditions associated with delays in motor development among children and adolescents. These conditions significantly affect aspects related to motor coordination, balance, strength, attention, language, social skills, and academic performance. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate and classify volunteers with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Down Syndrome, and other intellectual disabilities from an educational assistance institution. Methods: The research sample consisted of 28 students aged between 7 and 25 years, assessed using the Projeto Esporte Brasil (PROESP-BR) test battery, which included measures of flexibility, upper limb explosive strength, agility, body mass index (BMI), and body circumferences. Results: The findings revealed below-average motor performance in almost all variables, with greater limitations observed in flexibility and throwing. Additionally, there was a predominance of overweight cases, particularly among boys, with high levels of abdominal and neck circumferences, which are indicators of increased risk for chronic diseases. Conclusion: This study demonstrated that applying standardized test batteries, such as PROESP-BR, is a useful tool in evaluating and monitoring the motor development of students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Down Syndrome, and other intellectual disabilities. The results showed that most volunteers presented below-average levels in variables such as flexibility, explosive strength, and agility, indicating global motor performance impairments.