Acceptability of a short-term exercise programme for Children with CP.
Research type
Research Study
Full title
An investigation into the acceptability of a three times weekly, six week static bicycle programme for children with Cerebral Palsy, Gross Motor Classification System GMFCS) Levels I and II.
IRAS ID
131469
Contact name
Lorna Campbell
Contact email
Research summary
The World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends up to 60 minutes of cumulative exercise for 5-17 year olds is undertaken on daily. Vigorous intensity activities should be incorporated at least 3 times a week. The WHO states “Whenever possible, children and youth with disabilities should meet these recommendations.....These recommendations are applicable to all children and youth irrespective of gender, race, ethnicity, or income level”
Verschuren (2012) carried out a study with 33 mobile children with Cerebral Palsy (CP) and their families in Holland, to establish factors that may facilitate or hinder physical activity. Unlike in England, the majority of children with disabilities in The Netherlands attend special education schools, and do not have many opportunities to participate in activities with their peers without disabilities.
Recognising the importance of physical activity in the population, this study will primarily investigate how a specific group of children with CP respond to using a static exercise bicycle 3 times a week for 6 weeks; and whether there is a change in attitude and acceptance of physical exercise over this period. It is envisaged that themes identified may be similar to that of Verschuren’s study. However, by carrying out a short interview with the children before and after the 6 week programme, this study will aim to establish whether at the end of 6 weeks there are any changes in their opinions and attitudes to exercise. In addition, the children’s basic fitness level will be assessed at the start and the end of the 6 weeks to establish if there has been change during this timeframe. It is hoped that if there is an improvement in fitness levels, this can be used to promote and positively reinforce maintenance of physical activities within this group of children, in line with the WHO recommendations.
REC name
London - West London & GTAC Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
14/LO/1609
Date of REC Opinion
29 Oct 2014
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion