The effects of exercise intensity on the stereotypic behaviours of individuals with autism /

The effects of exercise intensity on the stereotypic behaviours of three autistic subjects were examined. Two exercise programs which differed on the basis of intensity as measured by heart rate were implemented. The frequency of stereotypic behaviours were measured prior to exercise, immediately following exercise and 90 minutes following exercise.Significant reductions in stereotypic behaviors occurred as a function of the vigorous exercise condition only. The mean reduction of stereotypic behaviours between pre-jogging and post-jogging was 17.5%. The duration of these reductions was found to be temporary. Increases to pre-exercise levels were noted in stereotypic behaviours one and a half hours following implementation of the exercise conditions.For the purpose of examining any differential effects of exercise intensity, the stereotypic behaviours of all subjects were categorized into three components motor, verbal and other. The motor component of stereotypic behaviour was most prominent. The moderate exercise condition had little effect on the motor component, while the vigorous exercise condition resulted in a mean reduction of 17%