EFFECTS OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AND EXERCISE AT DIFFERENT INTENSITIES FOR CHILDREN WITH AUTISM: SYSTEMATIC REVIEW OF RANDOMIZED CLINICAL TRIALS

Abstract

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects physical, cognitive and social abilities. With its increasing prevalence and significant impact on child development, physical activity or exercise helps to improve these parameters. This review aims to evaluate the effects of physical activity and exercise on different intensities on improving the health of children with ASD. This is a systematic review conducted in accordance with the PRISMA guideline. It included studies published in the last 5 years, written in English, randomized clinical trials and those that evaluated children aged 4-12 years with a clinical diagnosis of ASD. 211 studies were found, but nine made up the review. The Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) scale was used to assess the methodological quality of the studies. The main results were that the studies indicated that interventions involving moderate or moderate/vigorous intensity physical exercise were associated with improvements in physical aspects and sleep quality in children with ASD. Regarding the benefits of physical activity, the findings were inconclusive, although one study identified an increase in performance and satisfaction after practicing the activity. In conclusion, physical exercise of moderate to vigorous intensity was effective in improving the physical aspects and sleep quality of children with ASD. It is recommended that more programs that include physical activities be implemented, considering their importance for health promotion.