Conference Contribution Details
Mandatory Fields
Tindall, Daniel; Tannehill, Deborah; Moody, Brigitte
Shape America National Congress 2017
Identifying the physical activity levels of children with disabilities as they participate in an APA programme
Boston
Poster Presentation
2017
()
Optional Fields
20-MAR-17
24-MAY-17
The benefits of physical activity are widespread for all children, including those with disabilities. Nonetheless, despite these benefits, children with disabilities in Ireland continue to be restricted in their participation, have lower levels of fitness, and have higher levels of obesity when compared to their peers without disabilities (Hannon 2005). Given the numerous barriers to moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) opportunities for these individuals continued research on the benefits of specialised adapted physical activity (APA) programmes must be further examined. Purpose: The purpose of this study is to add to the current literature, from an Irish perspective, by identifying the physical activity levels of children with disabilities as they participate in an APA programme through comparing these results against recommended PA levels for children without disabilities within the same age range. Methods: Participants were twelve children (ages 11-15) with various disabilities. Data were collected using a variation of the System for Observing Fitness Instruction Time (SOFIT) (McKenzie, 2012). Analysis/Results: Data were examined quantitatively using descriptive statistical analysis. Results suggest participants of this study engaged in relevant and sustained levels of MVPA across the 8-week programme.. Conclusions: Given the preliminary findings, this research appears to support the continued implementation and evolution of this type of 1-1 programme in its efforts to provide children with disabilities in Ireland opportunities to partake in physical activity at a moderate-to-vigorous level.