The Impact of Physical Activity and Exercise Strategies on The Physical-Motor and Cognitive Treatment of Autism
Abstract
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) involves lifelong impairments in social interaction, social functioning, and self-sufficiency. To analyze the impact of physical activity (PA) and physical exercise (PE) strategies on the physical-motor and cognitive treatment of individuals with autism. Databases searched included PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences Literature (LILACS/BVS), SciELO, and Embase. The PRISMA 2020 guidelines were followed, and the risk of bias was assessed using the National Institutes of Health (2021). Nine studies were included in qualitative synthesis. Findings indicated that physical exercise should be performed at least twice per week for a minimum duration of two months to improve quality of life and motor functioning. Improvements in motor skills, adaptive behavior, social skills, and cognitive functioning were observed following the implementation of physical activity programs, particularly when integrated with play-based or game-oriented approaches in daily routines. Physical exercise programs also proved relevant, especially regarding the duration and frequency of implementation. Concerning mirroring activities in individuals with ASD, these do not directly enhance empathy but may improve self-reported well-being, social competence, and body awareness. Therefore, this review highlights the need for the development of structured protocols using mixed-methods (qualitative and quantitative) designs to better capture the emotional experiences and cognitive processing of individuals with ASD before quantification. Such integration can inform the design of evidence-based interventions tailored to the complex and diverse needs within the autism spectrum.
Keywords
Learning , Autism Spectrum Disorder; , Adaptation , Psychological; , Cognition
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