| dc.description.abstract | The purpose of this study is to promote and facilitate the improvement in the physical fitness levels of individuals with intellectual disabilities. The review of literature presents that people with intellectual disabilities have fitness levels significantly lag behind people without intellectual disabilities of the same age. These low fitness levels contribute to the populations increased risk of obesity, heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, osteoporosis, depression and cancer. According to Coleman, Ayoub and Friedrich (1976), these fitness and physical activity levels directly influence vocational pursuits, independent living, leisure activities, and health and aging. We thus then can conclude that the more physically active and fit an individual is, the better his/her quality of life. The goal of this project is to develop an exercise video to be used by persons who have disabilities using fitness principals recommended by the American Council on Exercise. The results will be a video sponsored and developed with Special Olympians. This video will be disseminated to athletes to be used at home and/or school, between competitions. | |
