College Students with Intellectual Disabilities: Their Views on Physical Activity

College campuses today offer special programs for students with intellectual disabilities (ID). A recent study looked into how these students experience and think about physical activity (PA). Researchers talked to eight students in a US college program to learn more. They found that most students only got PA chances through adapted programs. One student met the weekly goal for moderate exercise. The study pointed out many things that affect PA, like how students feel about themselves, support from family and friends, and what's available at the university.

Bad weather and COVID also played a role. The program seemed to encourage sitting around during school hours. To help these students do more PA, the study suggested teaching them and their parents more about exercise and health. More support from college mentors and more PA options could also help. These changes could make students feel better about doing PA and help them overcome barriers.

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