The dynamics of physical development in children with autism spectrum disorder aged 11-13 years

the article presents the results of an empirical study of the dynamics of physical development in adolescents aged 11-13 with autism spectrum disorders (ASD), conducted in an adaptive boarding school in 2024-2025. During a three-stage pedagogical experiment (theoretical, formative, and analytical), the level of development of five basic physical qualities – endurance, strength, speed, flexibility, and agility – was diagnosed using standardized and adapted tests. Data analysis showed low growth rates for most indicators: endurance (+1.4%), strength (+3.4%), speed (+0.4%), flexibility (+7%). At the same time, there was a 12.9% decrease in the agility test results, which indicates a decline in coordination abilities. The results obtained allow us to conclude that traditional adaptive physical education programs are insufficiently effective due to the incompatibility of methods and means with the specifics of the psychophysical development of children with ASD. The article justifies the need to develop individualized, correction-oriented physical education programs that take into account the sensory, emotional, and motor characteristics of this category of students. The study emphasizes the importance of a systematic approach to the formation of motor experience and social adaptation of adolescents with autism spectrum disorders.

adaptive physical education, autism spectrum disorders (ASD), physical qualities, developmental dynamics, adolescents, special education, motor activity