Individuals who feel a strong sense of belonging within a community perceive life to be more satisfying and meaningful and maintain better health and higher happiness levels. Individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) experience a heightened risk of social isolation and an absence of meaningful activity, which adversely influences physical and mental health, limits this sense of belonging, and negatively impacts quality of life. Physical fitness levels of individuals with IDD are low compared to the general population. Power Hour is an inclusive, adaptive physical fitness class that meets bimonthly at a local CrossFit gym. This sequential mixed methods study sought to understand the impact of this program on participants’ attitudes and outcomes regarding belonging, physical health, and overall well-being as a result of their participation. We also sought to understand why participants consistently attend. Participants described Power Hour as a place where they could build social connections, connect with similar people, negotiate a meaningful role, and find a good fit. Improvements to physical health and overall well-being were also detected and should be further studied. Ways in which Power Hour can improve were also identified. Implications for future programming and broader lessons learned are discussed.
Braden Wilkinson (Sun,) studied this question.