Effects of group-based physical activity programs on children, adolescents, and young adults with disabilities: A systematic review

D’Amours, J., Girard, S., Miquelon, P. et Veillette, P.-L. (2025). Effects of group-based physical activity programs on children, adolescents, and young adults with disabilities: A systematic review. PLOS One, 20 (5). Article e0323707. ISSN 1932-6203 DOI 10.1371/journal.pone.0323707

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Résumé

Abstract

Purpose

In recent years, a concerning decline in the physical activity levels of young individuals has been observed, with a notable impact on those with disabilities. Despite evidence suggesting that physical activity programs yield health benefits for youths with disabilities, there exists a significant gap in understanding the specific group-based effects, strategies for effectiveness, sustainability, program development, adaptation details, and empirical value.

Method

This systematic review examines quasi-experimental and experimental design research published from 2013 to 2025 on group-based physical activity programs for children, adolescents, and young adults (5–24 years old) with disabilities according to the PRISMA guidelines.

Results

The searches yielded 2 715 studies, of which 20 were included. This review highlights multiple disabilities, diverse program durations and activities, and favorable results spanning physical, social, emotional, and cognitive dimensions. The main findings indicated strategies for program effectiveness portrayed as adaptation details. Despite every study providing positive outcomes, limitation concerning confounding variables, sample size and disparity, generalizability, sustainability, and fidelity of implementation remain.

Conclusions

Overall, the selected studies suggest great holistic outcomes for youth with disabilities and are to be implemented in addition to special schools or treatment. Future research should explore differences among less common disabilities, emphasizing cognitive outcomes, trainer impact, and program inclusivity to develop accessibility and effective interventions for youth with disabilities.

Type de document:	Article
Mots-clés libres:	Disabilities Physical activity Sports Emotions Database searching Systematic reviews Social communication Learning disabilities
Date de dépôt:	29 janv. 2026 16:46
Dernière modification:	29 janv. 2026 16:46
Version du document déposé:	Version officielle de l'éditeur
URI:	https://depot-e.uqtr.ca/id/eprint/12580

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