Effects of Real-Life Motor Complexity on Walking and Mobility in Trained and Sedentary Adolescents With Intellectual Disabilities: A Motor Dual-Task Investigation

Adolescents with intellectual disabilities (ID) often encounter challenges in walking and mobility due to cognitive and motor impairments. This study aimed to investigate the impact of real-life motor complexity on walking and mobility in this population, particularly focusing on dual-task scenarios. Twenty-four adolescents with ID, divided into trained and sedentary groups, participated in the study. Participants completed the Timed Up and Go Test and the 10-m walk test under various conditions, including holding a water glass, carrying a tray with 2 glasses of water, introducing background noise, and encountering unexpected obstacles. Both groups significantly exhibited increased completion times (P < .001) in the Timed Up and Go Test and 10-m walk test with each added level of difficulty. The trained group demonstrated significantly superior performance (P < .05), only in the single task and holding a water glass. However, the difference between groups diminished as the challenges increased. In conclusion, real-life motor dual-tasking scenarios significantly impact walking and mobility in adolescents with ID. Physical activity may improve mobility and walking, particularly under less challenging conditions. Incorporating real-life challenges into motor dual-task training programs can enhance adaptability and reduce the risk of falls and injuries, ultimately improving the quality of life for individuals with ID.