PHYSICAL ACTIVITY FOR YOUTHS

Evidence exists that physical activity is beneficial for youths with developmental disabilities, says an article in the January/February issue (Vol 23 Issue 3) of the American Journal of Health Promotion.

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ARTICLE SUMMARY

Jun 09, 2009 8:00 AM - Author and APTA member Connie Johnson, PT analyzed systematic reviews and articles published in English in peer-reviewed journals that examined the effects of physical activity in youth with developmental disabilities ages 0 to 20 years.

Three systematic reviews and 14 studies were included in Johnson's review. Strong evidence indicated that children and adolescents with developmental disabilities derive health benefits from participation in group exercise programs, treadmill training, or therapeutic riding [hippotherapy]. Lesser levels of evidence indicated that health benefits might be present for adapted skiing or aquatic programs. Documented benefits of physical activity include improvements in aerobic capacity, improved gross motor function, and high levels of participant/parent satisfaction.

If you have questions about how to get your teen more active, whether developmentally disabled or not, call ECRC Physical Therapy for an appointment and gain some insight on how to make "exercise" fun.