Effects of an adapted physical activity program integrated with applied behavior analysis in children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder: a pilot study

Abstract

Adapted Physical Activity (APA) represents an area of growing interest within rehabilitation pathways for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), as it enables the integration of motor, behavioural, and socio-relational dimensions within structured educational contexts. The present pilot study aims to examine the functional impact and ecological validity of an APA protocol integrated with the principles of Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA). Twenty participants diagnosed with ASD, aged between 3 and 17 years, took part in the study and were involved in a 10-week training programme. Outcome assessment was carried out using a mixed observational design, integrating caregivers’ perceptions collected through a post-intervention questionnaire and systematic observations conducted by ABA practitioners using a structured checklist. The results highlight an overall positive impact of the intervention, with significant improvements in motor functioning, active participation, and emotional and behavioural regulation. The findings suggest that APA integrated with ABA constitutes an ecologically valid and potentially effective intervention for promoting adaptive skills in individuals with ASD, confirming the central role of movement within integrated rehabilitation pathways.