Assessment of Physical Fitness Status of Athletes with Intellectual Disabilities Participating in Special Olympics Programs in Nairobi County, Kenya
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Date
2017
Authors
Bukhala, P.
Onywera, V.
Toriola, A.L.
Onagbiye, S.O.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Taylor & Francis
Abstract
Information on the fitness status of people with disabilities in Kenya is scanty, particularly for those
who participate in Special Olympics sports. The study aimed to assess the physical fitness level of athletes with
Intellectual Disability participating in the Special Olympics program in Nairobi region and compare their fitness
levels across different centers and gender, using the commonly used race-specific percentiles. A total of 208
children from four Special Olympics program centers with the overall mean age of 16.8 years were assessed.
Assessment protocol includes the anthropometry, body composition and physical fitness variables. There was a
significant differences in physical fitness characteristics among the participants. This information should be used
by program developers to design and improve program that enhance the capacity of athletes with intellectual
disabilities in terms of exercise prescription, nutritional considerations, and motivating the athletes to stay in the
course. This will improve their motor skills and general quality of life.
Description
Research Article
Keywords
Health-related Fitness, Percentile Ranks, Obesity, Underweight, Aerobic Capacity