Level of physical activity in intellectually disabled adults

Introduction: Physical activity is one of the basic components of lifestyle. However, due to the technological developments the level of physical activity in modern society is decreasing. Such a phenomenon is also present among people with intellectual disability, who lead even more sedentary lifestyles. Physical activity and well-balanced diet play a key role in a healthy lifestyle and prevention of civilization diseases. Aim of the study: To assess the level of physical activity among adult people with intellectual disability. Materials and methods: The study group consisted of 69 adults with varying levels of intellectual disability, 27 females and 42 males, aged 21 to 54 years. The participants monitored their number of steps for 7 consecutive days with a pedometer. The results were analyzed according to gender, age, the level of intellectual disability, and BMI. Results: Adults with intellectual disability seem to be insufficiently active. Only 16% of participants exceeded the recommended amount of 10,000 steps, and the average for the whole group was 6,656 steps per day. No significant correlation was found between the level of physical activity and the level of intellectual disability, gender, age, or BMI.