The Effects of a Supplemental Therapeutic Aquatic Exercise Program on the Physical Fitness Levels of Special Olympic Athletes

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of participation in a supplemental aquatic fitness program on the physical fitness (muscular strength, cardiovascular endurance, and flexibility) of children with developmental disabilities who also participate in Special Olympics programming, as compared to children who participate in Special Olympics programming alone. Fourteen children with developmental disabilities who were active participants in Special Olympics programming participated in the study. Of the 14 children, six participated in a supplemental therapeutic aquatic exercise program in order to see if participation would increase physical fitness levels. Participant physical fitness levels were assessed using the Brockport Physical Fitness Test. No significant gains in physical fitness levels were observed in the children who participated in Special Olympics programming alone. In addition, no significant gains were found in the children who participated in both Special Olympics programming and the aquatic program. This study suggests that physical fitness levels are not increased by regular Special Olympics programming. Consequently, a supplemental program to provide more physical activity and, therefore, increase physical fitness levels in children with developmental disabilities is still needed. However, the aquatics program used in this study in conjunction with Special Olympics programming also found no significant gains in physical fitness. A supplemental aquatic exercise program with increased frequency, duration, and intensity may still be effective although further research is needed to test this claim.