The Effects of Inclusive Soccer Program on Motor Performance and Sport Skill in Young Adults with and without Intellectual Disabilities

Abstract

This study aimed at investigating the effect of inclusive soccer program on motor performance and sport skill in young adults with and without intellectual disabilities (ID). Twelve participants with ID and twelve typical partners practiced 50-min each session, twice a week for 15-week long. All participants were encouraged to perform the practice at moderate exercise intensity. Measures of manual dexterity, mobility and soccer skills were tested pre- and post- program. This study showed participants with ID were able to perceive and report a number of exertion level in response to the intensity of exercise. In addition, participants with and without ID improved their performance in the Purdue Pegboard Test and Special Olympics Soccer Skill test. Thus, the mutual benefits in physical and motor performance were also evident in the typical partners. Our findings can encourage school and community to implement the inclusive sport programs. Lastly, the comparison groups and more measures are needed to generalize the findings to the large group.