An aerobic exercise program for young people with cerebral palsy in specialist schools: A phase I randomized controlled trial. (18th August 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Cleary, Stacey L.; Taylor, Nicholas F.; Dodd, Karen J.; Shields, Nora
• Is Part Of: Developmental neurorehabilitation. Volume 20:Number 6(2017)
• Page Start: 331
• Page End: 338
• Publication Date: 2017-08-18
• Subjects: Disability -- feasibility -- physical activity -- physiotherapy -- rehabilitation; Children with disabilities -- Rehabilitation -- Periodicals; Developmentally disabled children -- Rehabilitation -- Periodicals; 615.542
• DOI: 10.1080/17518423.2016.1265602
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1751-8423

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Purpose : To evaluate the safety, adherence, and estimates of effect of an aerobic exercise program in specialist schools for young people with cerebral palsy. Methods : Nineteen students with cerebral palsy were randomly allocated to an intervention group who completed an aerobic exercise program (27 sessions over nine weeks) or a control group who completed social/art activities over the same time. Results : There were no serious adverse events and the exercise program was completed with high rates of attendance (77%) and adherence to target heart rate zones (79%). Effect sizes favored the intervention group for measures of cardiovascular performance (sub-maximal treadmill test, effect size d = 0.7; muscle power sprint test, d = 0.9) and participation (Preference for Active-Physical Activities, d = 0.6). Conclusions : An aerobic exercise program in specialist schools for young people with cerebral palsy, that may improve measures of cardiovascular performance, can be completed safely, with moderately high levels of adherence.