Abstract
Beyond traditional therapy, adults living with disability have limited access to specialized physical activity (PA) programming. The present study explored the motor performance of adults diagnosed with physical and/or intellectual disability in an existing specialized dance program. The program uses rhythmic movement and dance techniques to train balance, coordination, kinesthetic awareness, strength and flexibility. Six adults with disability (Mean age = 33) participated in 30 weekly sessions. Changes in functional mobility and balance were assessed using the Berg balance scale (BBS) and Timed Up and Go (TUG) tests at three time points: pre, mid, and post-training. Changes in upper limb performance were assessed using a reciprocal Fitts task (IDs 3 and 4) at the mid and final assessment sessions. Fitts' task outcome measures were reaction time (RT) and movement time (MT). No meaningful differences in the BBS were observed. TUG performance improved an average of 39% (6.6 s) at mid-training; performance was maintained at the post-training assessment. Fitts' task performance improved with RT decreasing by 34% for ID3 (mid-training =302ms±172; post-training=214ms±89) and 46% for ID4 (mid-training=400ms±373; post-training=250ms±87). MT for ID3 demonstrated a 31% decrease (mid-training=700ms±685; post-training=512ms±125) and ID4 a 24% decrease (mid-training=824ms±685 and post-training=646ms±220). These findings indicate improved mobility/balance and upper limb performance. The results of this pilot study suggest that individuals living with motor and/or cognitive disability may benefit from the dance training. Future work will consider the specific effects of rhythm as it relates to diagnosis and changes in motor performance.Acknowledgments: Many thanks to Canada's Royal Winnipeg Ballet School, the participants and caregivers/assistants, and Joseph Lo and Natalie Manicotto for their assistance with data collection.