The Effects of Exercise Intervention on Physical Fitness and Problem Behaviors in Children with Developmental Disabilities: Focused on the Development of Evidence-based Exercise Program

PURPOSE Developmental disabilities often result in decreased physical fitness and problematic behaviors. Participating in regular physical activity and exercise is one of the main ways to improve problems associated with developmental disabilities. In this study, we aimed to develop an evidence-based exercise program tailored to the characteristics, disability level, and functional level of children with developmental disabilities. METHODS The development process is composed of the following nine steps: preliminary literature review, survey of physical activity participation, first expert group discussion, development of the first exercise program, feasibility study, focus group interview, second expert group discussion, development of the evidence-based exercise program, the validation of the developed exercise program. RESULTS Participating in the evidence-based exercise program developed in this study was found to significantly improve cardiovascular fitness (6-minute walk), agility (standing long jump), and muscular function (sit-ups), but did not yield significant results in terms of flexibility (sit-and-reach). Additionally, the exercise program showed significant results in terms of reducing problem behaviors. The parents of children with developmental disabilities were all satisfied with the exercise program and its outcomes. CONCLUSIONS The evidence-based exercise program developed in this study had positive effects on the physical fitness and behavior of children with developmental disabilities. This study provides a basis for the development of exercise programs through a safe and effective means for children with developmental disabilities.