February 28 — 29, 2008 Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes

Disabilities Summary

James Rimmer, Ph.D., presented summary conclusions on physical activity and disabilities.

The consistency of evidence supports the use of physical activity/exercise to improve key health outcomes in people with physical and cognitive disabilities. The majority of the studies included exercise doses typically used in studies with the general population. As follows:

• Intensity — more than 50% HRR or VO2peak

• Frequency — 3 to 5 days per week

• Duration — 30 to 60 minute sessions

For physical disabilities the strongest evidence is in the areas of cardio-respiratory, musculoskeletal and mental health. For cognitive disabilities the strongest evidence is in the categories of functional health and mental health. Very few studies reported serious adverse events.

Committee discussion in this area focused on the amount of studies that reached statistical significance.

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