A resistance exercise set for a total body workout for adults with intellectual disabilities, a pilot study

J Appl Res Intellect Disabil. 2019 May;32(3):730-736. doi: 10.1111/jar.12552. Epub 2018 Dec 10.

Abstract

Background: Resistance training has beneficial effects on fitness levels, cardiovascular disease risk, risk of sarcopenia and on performing activities of daily living. The focus of this study is to design a total body resistance exercise set for adults with intellectual disabilities (RESID) with minimal equipment required and to test its feasibility.

Method: The RESID was selected in an expert meeting, and its feasibility was determined in a cross-sectional pilot study. The feasibility was determined with completion rate, correct execution of exercises and the participant's experience.

Results: The expert group (n = 7) selected seven exercises for the RESID. The participants (N = 11) performed the RESID twice during regular sports classes. Completion rate and correctness were excellent for all exercises. The participants did not experience any major problems with the RESID.

Conclusions: The RESID is feasible for use in different training settings. A physiotherapist or fitness instructor is required to supervise the training sessions.

Keywords: adults; exercise set; intellectual disability; resistance training; total body workout.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Feasibility Studies
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Intellectual Disability / rehabilitation*
  • Male
  • Outcome and Process Assessment, Health Care*
  • Pilot Projects
  • Resistance Training / methods*
  • Young Adult