Cerebral Blood Flow, Fitness and Behaviour Changes With a High Intensity, Socially Engaging Physical Activity Program for Young Adults With Autism Spectrum Disorder

Abstract

The effects of a moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) intervention on cerebral blood flow (CBF), fitness, and motor competence in young adults 18-35 with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) were examined. Thirteen male and female participants underwent a one-hour weekly supervised, and a 30 minute 3 x weekly unsupervised, MVPA intervention. Arterial spin labeling (ASL), fitness testing, and diagnostic measurements gauged changes in CBF, fitness, and behaviors respectively. Statistical significance (p<0.05) was found in the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS II) (pre mean=14.58, sd 4.38, n=12, post mean= 12.58, sd 4.17, n=12, p value=0.03) and wall sits (pre mean= 27.7s, sd 24.57, n=11, post mean= 42.3s, sd 23.98, n=11, p-value=0.04). CBF decreased insignificantly (p=0.62), and did not correlate with increases in NIRS (p=0.38) or aerobic fitness (p=0.30). The small increase in total Hb, using NIRS, suggests regional vs. global differences. The effectiveness of exercise in ASD requires more research.