Is an Online Asynchronous Progressive Resistance Training Programme Feasible for Individuals With Down Syndrome?

• Published in: Journal of applied research in intellectual disabilities Vol. 38; no. 2; pp. e70040 - n/a
• Main Authors: Rubin, D. A., Clark, B., Lam, J., Vuong, V., Brito, J., Fisher, K. L.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Oxford, UK Blackwell Publishing Ltd 01.03.2025; Wiley Subscription Services, Inc
• Subjects: Adolescent; Adult; Down Syndrome; Down Syndrome - rehabilitation; Feasibility Studies; Female; Humans; Male; muscular fitness; online; Patient Acceptance of Health Care - statistics & numerical data; resistance training; Resistance Training - methods; Resistance Training - statistics & numerical data; Telerehabilitation; Young Adult; online; resistance training; down syndrome; muscular fitness
• ISSN: 1360-2322; 1468-3148; 1468-3148
• DOI: 10.1111/jar.70040

ABSTRACT Background Online exercise programming reduces transportation and scheduling barriers. This study explored the feasibility of online resistance training for individuals with Down syndrome. Method Thirteen individuals (3 M/10 F, age: 21.7 ± 5.9 years) began a 10‐week programme delivered using a website with pre‐recorded exercise videos (45–60 min each) for 3 days/week. Surveys were used to obtain feedback and track adherence. At baseline and after 10 weeks, participants completed the 30‐s sit‐to‐stand, modified push‐ups and 30‐s bicep curl tests. Results 11 (85%) participants completed the programme, and 8 participants (73%) met the ≥ 20 sessions goal. Participants rated (n = 267 ratings) most exercises easy to somewhat easy and exercise videos as fun to a lot of fun (n = 220 ratings, 86.2%). After 10 weeks, participants completed more push‐ups (8 ± 6 vs. 12 ± 6; p = 0.031) and biceps curls (7 ± 3 vs. 11 ± 3; p < 0.001). Conclusion Remote resistance training programmes may be feasible and should be further evaluated.