BMI-stratified outcomes of a badminton training program on health-related fitness in adults with mild to moderate intellectual disabilities

Badminton exercise significantly improved aerobic capacity, muscle strength and endurance and coordination in adults with ID across all BMI categories. Core fitness indicators (right-hand grip strength, timed up-and-go test, and resting heart rate) exhibited a gradient improvement pattern: normal weight greater improvement than overweight, which was greater than obesity. Therefore, although badminton is an appropriate exercise intervention for adults with ID, BMI and BMI-related factors should be taken into consideration when designing personalized exercise programs to optimize training effects.