Swimmers with Down Syndrome Are Healthier and Physically Fit Than Their Untrained Peers

Overview

Journal Healthcare (Basel)

Specialty Health Services

Date 2023 Feb 25

PMID 36833016

Authors

Ana Querido

Mario J Costa

Dalia Araujo

Antonio R Sampaio

Joao P Vilas-Boas

Rui Corredeira

Daniel J Daly

Ricardo J Fernandes

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

While there are positive benefits from physical activity participation for individuals with Down syndrome, little is known about the effects of swimming training. The aim of this study was to compare the body composition and physical fitness profile of competitive swimmers and moderately active (untrained) individuals with Down syndrome. The Eurofit Special test was applied to a group of competitive swimmers ( = 18) and a group of untrained individuals ( = 19), all with Down syndrome. In addition, measurements were taken to determine body composition characteristics. The results showed differences between swimmers and untrained subjects in height, sum of the four skinfolds, body fat %, fat mass index and all items of the Eurofit Special test. Swimmers with Down syndrome exhibited physical fitness levels near to the Eurofit standards, although lower fitness levels were attained by these persons when compared to athletes with intellectual disability. It can be concluded that the practice of competitive swimming seems to counteract the tendency for obesity in persons with Down syndrome and also helps to increase strength, speed and balance.

Citing Articles

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