Feasibility and initial outcomes of a group exercise-based social intervention (So Fit) for autistic children

This study assessed the feasibility and initial outcomes of an innovative group exercise-based social intervention (So Fit) on the social functioning, ASD-features, and physical performance of autistic children, ages 7–12 years (N = 28). The So Fit manualized intervention (prescribed content and instructional procedures) was delivered to groups of 8–11 autistic children, and it consisted of two 60-minute sessions per week over 10 weeks. Each session included a skills instruction component targeting social and physical performance skills (10–15 min) followed by an exercise-based activity (45–50 min) to promote social interactions, practice social skills, and receive feedback. A behavioral reinforcement system was also implemented to foster skills development and improve ASD-features. Lastly, parents participated in three psychoeducational parent training groups on the program, and strategies for teaching, reinforcing, and generalizing skills/behaviors outside the program setting. Fidelity was high, parent and child satisfaction were good, and there were no adverse events/injuries or withdrawals supporting feasibility. Pre-posttest comparisons indicated significant improvements in parent-rated social skills and ASD-features, and on objective observations/tests of child social performance, social knowledge, and physical performance. Additional testing of So Fit in a randomized trial appears warranted and recommendations are provided.