Research suggests that more than half of children with autism spectrum disorder, a neurodevelopmental disorder, experience movement disorders. analysis in Developmental medicine and child neurology Sports-based interventions may improve motor skills in children with autism spectrum disorders, with martial arts and aquatic training showing the most consistent effects.
This analysis is based on data from 11 clinical trials across a variety of sports. Martial arts consistently showed significant gains in balance, gross motor skills, and object control, with tai chi and kata programs being particularly effective. Underwater training demonstrated significant improvements in balance, motor skills, and object control abilities. The gymnastics and trampoline intervention demonstrated significant improvements in balance and bilateral coordination, with additional effects on total motor scores in the trampoline study. Table tennis led to broad gross motor skill gains, while Australian football had a large effect on object control skills and a moderate effect on balance and gross motor skills. Across all sport categories, the most consistently improved motor area was balance.
However, the authors noted that many of the studies had important limitations and that higher quality studies were needed.
Structured sports-based interventions may benefit children with autism beyond recreation by supporting the development of motor skills. Although our review identified promising effects, particularly in martial arts and aquatic training, larger and more rigorous studies are needed to confirm these benefits and guide evidence-based recommendations. ”
Sonia Khurana, PT, PhD, corresponding author, Old Dominion University
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Reference magazines:
Lamb, K.et al. (2026). Structured sports-based interventions and motor outcomes in children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder: A systematic review. Developmental medicine and child neurology. DOI: 10.1111/dmcn.70385. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/dmcn.70385
