Improving Upper Extremity Motor Control in Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder and an Intellectual Disability Through Participation in an Adapted Physical Exercise Intervention

This study sought to quantify the impact of a 12-week adapted physical exercise (APEX) program on upper extremity motor control in 11 adults diagnosed with both autism spectrum disorder and an intellectual disability (ASD-ID). Motor planning and execution during an upper-limb reaching movement was assessed at baseline, mid-, and post-program. Overall, participants became more efficient at preparing and executing the task, needing fewer adjustments during the movement to achieve similar accuracy. Eight participants also improved their response programming. The multi-modal APEX program appears to be an effective intervention for improving upper extremity motor control in adults with ASD-ID. Improving motor skills may lead to increased participation in physical activity, greater independence, and improved quality of life for adults with ASD-ID.&nbsp