Evaluation of biological and psychometric variables in children and adolescents with intellectual disabilities engaged in aquatic and land-based physical activities

PURPOSE: The aim of the study was to examine the physiological and psychological responses to aquatic and land-based activities in children and adolescents with intellectual disability (ID) and/or autism spectrum disorder (ASD). METHODS: A total of 30 participants (21 male, 9 female), aged 11.8-18.6 years and diagnosed with ID and/or ASD, completed both a swimming session and a dryland activity session. Anthropometric data, biological maturation, and heart rate (HR) responses were recorded, including the lowest (HRlow), highest (HRhigh), and mean (HRmean) values during activity. Salivary cortisol and α-amylase concentrations were measured before and after each session. Participants' enjoyment and preference for physical activity were assessed using the Children's Assessment of Participation and Enjoyment and Preferences for Activities of Children questionnaires. RESULTS: HR responses did not differ significantly between activities. Cortisol decreased significantly following activity (from 0.105 ± 0.076 to 0.082 ± 0.076 µg/dL, p = 0.012), while α-amylase showed a non-significant decrease (from 157 ± 101 U/mL to 137 ± 112 U/mL, p = 0.094). Participants reported greater enjoyment of swimming than land-based activity (4.2 ± 1.0 vs. 2.5 ± 1.9, p < 0.001) and expressed a stronger preference for swimming (2.9 ± 0.4 vs. 2.4 ± 0.7, p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Both swimming and land-based activities may serve as moderate-intensity activities that support reductions in physiological and psychological stress in children and adolescents with ID and ASD. Swimming appeared to be more enjoyable and preferred, possibly due to its calming environment and potential to enhance self-efficacy.