Implementation of Peer-Assisted Physical Activity Via Telehealth for Adults on the Autism Spectrum: A Mixed Methods Feasibility Study.

OBJECTIVE: Adults on the autism spectrum are at risk for physical inactivity, obesity, and related health conditions. Physical activity provides physical, social, and mental health benefits across the lifespan. Previous research examined feasibility and effectiveness of physical activity intervention in autistic children, but very few studies target autistic adults. This study examined the feasibility and acceptability of Physical Activity Connections via Telehealth, implemented during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic lockdown as an alternative to in-person programming for autistic adults aged 18 to 32. METHODS: The 10-week intervention utilized telehealth and remote technologies to deliver a theoretically grounded program to improve physical activity. Strategies included peer-guidance, coaching, individualized wellness goals, customized exercise programs, and wearable activity trackers. Feasibility and acceptability were examined using a mixed-methods design including observational and survey data collection, as well as participant interviews. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and content analysis. RESULTS: Findings support feasibility and acceptability of telehealth to promote physical activity among autistic adults who have cognitive capacity and ability to utilize remote technology, with applicability beyond pandemic-imposed challenges. CONCLUSION: Telehealth delivery of physical activity interventions is a viable alternative to in-person programs and may enable autistic adults to overcome barriers to physical activity participation and access. IMPACT: As the rate of autism continues to rise globally, rehabilitation professionals will play a significant role in promoting health and wellness for autistic individuals across the lifespan. Findings promote informed practice based on the health needs of this growing segment of society.

Motor proficiency, strength, endurance, and physical activity among middle school children who are healthy, overweight, and obese.

PURPOSE: To compare motor proficiency, strength, endurance, and physical activity among children from minority backgrounds who were healthy weight (HW), overweight (OW), or obese (OB). METHODS: Eighty-six children, aged 10 to 15 years, of mostly Hispanic ethnicity, participated. Children were categorized according to body mass index-for-age percentile. Bruininks-Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency (BOT2) Short Form, Sit-to-Stand (STS), Timed Up and Down Stairs, and 6-Minute Walk Test (6MWT) were administered. Physical activity was measured by using activity monitors. RESULTS: Forty-five percent of children were classified as OW/OB. Children who were OB had lower mean BOT2, STS, and 6MWT performance than children of HW. Among children who were OW/OB, daily mean steps were lower and sedentary minutes higher than children of HW. In children who were OW/OB, body mass index was negatively correlated with BOT2, STS, and abdominal curls. CONCLUSION: Children who are OB demonstrate greater impairments in motor proficiency, strength, and endurance and participate in less physical activity than peers of HW.