Effects of combined training in individual with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Abstract

Purpose of the article

This study aims to evaluate the literature, peer-reviewed clinical trials investigating the effects of combined exercise interventions on individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities.

Materials and methods

Various databases, using various descriptors and Boolean operators were utilized.

Results

Eight studies meet the eligibility criteria. Regarding the anthropometric measures/body composition variable, the meta-analysis revealed that combined physical exercise did not have a significant effect (standard mean difference (SMD) = −0.16; 95% CI, −0.34 to 0.03; Z = 1.68; p = 0.09). For the lipid profile variable, the combined exercise interventions did not show a significant effect (SMD = −0.07; 95% CI, −0.43 to 0.29; Z = 0.38; p = 0.71). Combined exercise training had a significant effect on increasing functional capacity (SMD = 0.28; 95% CI, 0.01 to 0.54; Z = 2.03; p = 0.04), cardiorespiratory function (SMD = 0.80; 95% CI, 0.34 to 1.26; Z = 3.41; p ≤ 0.001), and strength (SMD = 0.77; 95% CI, 0.45 to 1.08; Z = 4.78; p ≤ 0.001).

Conclusions

Participants from the intervention group that took part in combined exercise training showed a higher probability of improving their functional, cardiorespiratory, and strength capacity compared to the control group.

IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATION

• This study synthesises the literature, peer-reviewed clinical trials investigating the effects of combined exercise interventions on individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities.

• Participants who performed combined physical exercise were more likely to improve their functional, cardiorespiratory and strength capacity compared to the control group.

• Professionals (e.g., rehabilitation technician, exercise technician) responsible for planning interventions for people with IDD should consider the results of this study when planning their interventions, particularly regarding the prescription of physical exercise, as well as monitoring training and several important variables that can be enhanced by regular physical exercise.

• Organisations that provide support to people with IDD (support or social solidarity institutions) should also consider the results of this study, to provide the necessary conditions (materials, spaces or human resources) so that professionals could plan this type of intervention in the most appropriate and adapted way possible for the individual.

Keywords:

• Exercise
• intellectual disability
• intervention
• training
• systematic-review

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Funding

This work was funded by National Funds by FCT - Foundation for Science and Technology under the following project UIDB/04045/2020 (https://doi.org/10.54499/UIDB/04045/2020).