Meta-analysis of the effect of exercise programs for individuals with intellectual disabilities

The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of physical exercise programs on individuals with intellectual disabilities (ID). This meta-analysis analyzed 67 effect sizes and 14 studies and calculated the standardized mean difference in effect size. The unit of analysis for overall effects was the study, and the sub-group analysis focused on effect size using a random effects model. The effect size of exercise programs was positive with a 0.41 standard deviation. The professional/scholastic measure was the most effective program, whereas the biometric and body composition effects were trivial. This study showed that short-duration exercise programs were more effective than those of longer duration, and an exercise program that runs 4 times per week had a better effect than one that runs 3 times per week. The most effective length of session for exercise was 31-60 min, and exercise was more effective for older people than for younger people. Amidst a growing variety of studies of physical exercise programs for individuals with ID, this meta-analysis indicated the present status and future direction of studies on physical exercise programs for individuals with ID. The limitations and implications for practice and theory were discussed. (C) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.