LAUSR

INTRODUCTION Few studies have examined the comprehensive impact of adaptive exercise interventions across multiple functional domains (i.e., physical and cognitive health) in adults with developmental disabilities (DD). METHODS The present study examined the effects of a 10-week (2 session/week, 1 hour/session) adapted Zumba® intervention on the 6-Minute Walk Test (6-MWT), Timed Up and Go (TUG), Clinical Test of Sensory Interaction on Balance, body composition, and executive function in 44 adults with DD ages 20.8-69.2 years. In addition to examining overall differences between control and intervention conditions, the effects of different Zumba® tempos (normal/low) were examined. A cross-over design with a 3-month wash-out period was employed such that participants in the intervention also served as controls. The participants were quasi-randomized into one of two Zumba® conditions: low tempo Zumba® (0.75 normal speed; n = 23) and normal tempo Zumba® (n = 21). RESULTS A significant Condition x Time interaction was observed for the 6-MWT and TUG; participants in the low and normal tempo Zumba® conditions significantly increased the distance walked for the 6-MWT and reduced the total time for the TUG. No improvement was observed during the control condition for these measures. There were no significant Condition x Time interactions for the other outcomes. CONCLUSIONS These findings have implications on the efficacy and implementation of virtual Zumba® programs to increase abilities related to independent performance of activities of daily living in adults with disabilities.