Effects of Light to Moderate Intensity Aerobic Exercise on Stereotypic Behaviours in Subjects with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Systematic Review

Authors

  • Valentin Rodriguez-de-Dios

Abstract

Stereotypic behaviours have been widely linked to a blocking effect, which affects the ability to learn and interact with peers, and can also have effects on everyday activities and long-term musculoskeletal problems. The objectives of this systematic review were to analyse the lasting effects of different aerobic intensity exercise interventions on the frequency and duration of stereotypic behaviours shown by subjects with ASD and suggest an optimal aerobic intensity intervention according to the results of the studies. Searches were conducted in relevant databases using the descriptors “ASD” and “exercise” in combination with the keyword “stereotypy.” All the articles that met the eligibility criteria were included in this review (n = 10). To meet the criteria, articles must include individuals with ASD as participants, stereotypic behaviours as the dependent variable, exercise as the independent variable, and enough information so the aerobic intensity could be calculated. The 10 studies included a total of 70 participants. All the studies found aerobic exercise effective to reduce the number of stereotypic behaviours from 30 to 120 minutes after the exercise intervention. Nine out of 10 of the studies found these effects to be significant. Evidence from this review suggests that 10 to 15 minutes of light to moderate aerobic intensity exercise is effective in decreasing stereotypic behaviours in individuals with ASD with lasting effects of 30 to 120 minutes.

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Published

2023-06-05

Issue

Vol. 37 No. 2 (2023)

Section

Feature Articles

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