Associations Between Flexibility and SAMU DIS-FIT Physical Fitness Parameters in Adults With Intellectual Disabilities: A Cross-Sectional Study.

purposeThis study aimed to examine the relationships among flexibility and other components of physical fitness in adults with intellectual disabilities and to determine whether these relationships differ by sex, age, and level of disability. This study sought to clarify the role of flexibility within the construct of physical fitness.

methodsThis cross-sectional study included 106 adults aged 18-40 years. Participants' physical fitness levels were assessed in terms of body composition, motor performance, musculoskeletal fitness, and cardiorespiratory fitness. Flexibility was measured using the Sit-and-Reach Test and the Functional Shoulder Rotation Test. Parametric or non-parametric tests were applied according to distribution; non-normally distributed parameters are described as median (interquartile range).

resultsMen outperformed women on the Timed Up and Go Test, Handgrip Test, Timed Stand Test, 30-s Sit-Up Test and 6-min Walk Test, whereas the sexes did not differ in body composition or in either flexibility measure. Participants aged 19-29 years and participants with mild intellectual disability showed more favorable values than older participants and those with moderate intellectual disability, respectively, across most parameters. Both flexibility measures were negatively associated with the Timed Up and Go Test and positively associated with muscular performance and the 6-min Walk Test; the Functional Shoulder Rotation Test was additionally negatively associated with body composition.

conclusionThe findings indicate that flexibility is an important and multidimensional component of physical fitness in adults with intellectual disabilities. Therefore, flexibility should be addressed alongside other physical fitness components through a holistic assessment and intervention approach.