Comparison of Sedentary Behavior and Physical Activity between Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and the Controls

Abstract

Regular physical activity is widely recognized by health organizations for enhancing children’s well-being and improving overall physical fitness. It is recommended that children engage in moderate-to-vigorous physical exercise for at least 60 minutes daily to support healthy development. Children with disabilities, including those diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), often exhibit reduced levels of physical activity, increasing their risk of obesity and related health issues.

This study compares physical fitness and sedentary behavior patterns between children with ASD and typically developing peers. To ensure accurate monitoring, the ActiGraph GT3X+ accelerometer was used to capture a full range of body movements and unstructured activities, including walking, sitting, running, climbing stairs, and flexibility exercises. These tools are particularly effective in evaluating physical education for autistic students, as they detect subtle motor behaviors and provide valuable insight into their exercise & fitness routines. The findings underline the importance of personalized physical education programs that support the physical and emotional well-being of children with autism.