A quarterly publication of the Autism Research Institute
Spring 2025 | Number 2, Volume 39
A meta-analysis by researchers in China and Poland concludes that exercise can significantly benefit children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD).
YanAn Wang and colleagues analyzed data from 23 randomized, controlled trials investigating the effects of exercise on children with ASD, and found that the benefits of physical activity varied by age. In older children, they say, exercise led to significant improvements in flexibility and cognitive control. Elementary-age children showed significant improvements in motor skills and coordination, while preschool children exhibited significant enhancements in social skills. Across all age groups, exercise led to improvements in behavioral problems.
In particular, the researchers say, children appeared to benefit from martial arts and ball games. They note that team and interactive sports, in addition to providing the benefits of physical exercise, can enhance social, cooperative, communication, and conflict resolution skills.
The researchers conclude, “Exercise interventions significantly improve flexibility, cognitive control, motor skills, coordination, social skills, and behavioral problems in children with ASD. This study supports exercise interventions as an effective method to enhance multiple abilities in children with ASD and emphasizes the importance of designing personalized intervention programs tailored to different ages and needs.”
“The impact of physical exercise interventions on social, behavioral, and motor skills in children with autism: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials,” YanAn Wang, Guoping Qian, Sujie Mao, and Shikun Zhang, Frontiers in Pediatrics, February 26, 2025 (free online). Address: Sujie Mao, Graduate School, Harbin Institute of Physical Education, Harbin Sport University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China, [email protected].
