Adapted Aquatic Exercise and Behavioral Outcomes, Flexibility, and Handgrip Strength in Children … (NCT07410897) | Clinical Trial Compass
CompletedNot Applicable
Adapted Aquatic Exercise and Behavioral Outcomes, Flexibility, and Handgrip Strength in Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder
Turkey (Türkiye)35 participantsStarted 2025-12-01
Plain-language summary
This randomized clinical trial studied whether an adapted aquatic exercise program could improve behavior and physical abilities in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Thirty-five boys aged 6 to 12 years with mild ASD participated in the study. Participants were randomly assigned to either an aquatic exercise group or a control group.
The aquatic exercise group took part in a structured, individualized swimming and water-based exercise program twice per week for 16 weeks, while the control group continued their regular academic education without additional exercise. The program focused on water safety, breathing control, and basic swimming movements.
Outcomes were measured before and after the 16-week period. Autism-related behaviors were evaluated using the Autism Behavior Checklist. Physical abilities were assessed using flexibility (sit-and-reach test) and handgrip strength measurements.
The study aimed to determine whether regular participation in adapted aquatic exercise could reduce autism-related behaviors and improve motor skills that are important for daily life activities in children with ASD.
Who can participate
Age range
6 Years – 12 Years
Sex
MALE
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion Criteria:
* Male children aged 6 to 12 years
* Clinical diagnosis of mild autism spectrum disorder confirmed by a licensed -child psychiatrist according to DSM-5 criteria
* Medical clearance for participation in aquatic exercise
* Ability to follow verbal and visual instructions
* Ability to imitate fine and gross motor movements
* Independent in toileting
* Not participating in structured sports or exercise programs other than standard academic instruction
* Written informed consent provided by a parent or legal guardian
Exclusion Criteria:
* Severe autism spectrum disorder
* Orthopedic, neurological, or medical conditions that contraindicate participation in aquatic exercise
* Current participation in structured physical training or sports programs outside of school
* Inability to safely participate in water-based activities
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.
What they're measuring
1
Handgrip Strength
Timeframe: Baseline and 16 weeks
2
Autism-Related Behaviors
Timeframe: Baseline and 16 weeks
3
Flexibility
Timeframe: Baseline and 16 weeks
Trial details
NCT IDNCT07410897
SponsorPrincess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University