Sportive motor performance analysis of children and adolescents with Autistic Spectrum Disorder

Abstract

The objective of the present study was to analyze the sports motor performance of children and adolescents with Autistic Spectrum Disorder, a neurodevelopment syndrome that mainly affects areas of behavior and social communication. The research is descriptive qualitative approach considered and was composed of 6 individuals aged between 8 and 13 years, students of a physical education project focused on autistic city of Dourados-MS. We used the speed tests and explosive force of the lower limbs Sport Brazil Project (PROESP-BR) and observations of a period of 10 months of classes in the project. All subjects presented a result considered "weak" in testing, however some issues related to testing and disability should be considered, justifying the assessed performance. It was concluded that physical activity is an important mechanism of motor, cognitive and social development of autistic and, therefore, the presence of professional physical education is fundamental in the life of these people.