Werthner, Dr. PennyWickenheiser, Hayley2016-08-222016-08-2220162016http://hdl.handle.net/11023/3196The effects of a moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) intervention on cerebral blood flow (CBF), fitness, and motor competence in young adults 18-35 with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) were examined. Thirteen male and female participants underwent a one-hour weekly supervised, and a 30 minute 3 x weekly unsupervised, MVPA intervention. Arterial spin labeling (ASL), fitness testing, and diagnostic measurements gauged changes in CBF, fitness, and behaviors respectively. Statistical significance (p<0.05) was found in the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS II) (pre mean=14.58, sd 4.38, n=12, post mean= 12.58, sd 4.17, n=12, p value=0.03) and wall sits (pre mean= 27.7s, sd 24.57, n=11, post mean= 42.3s, sd 23.98, n=11, p-value=0.04). CBF decreased insignificantly (p=0.62), and did not correlate with increases in NIRS (p=0.38) or aerobic fitness (p=0.30). The small increase in total Hb, using NIRS, suggests regional vs. global differences. The effectiveness of exercise in ASD requires more research.engUniversity of Calgary graduate students retain copyright ownership and moral rights for their thesis. You may use this material in any way that is permitted by the Copyright Act or through licensing that has been assigned to the document. For uses that are not allowable under copyright legislation or licensing, you are required to seek permission.Education--HealthEducation--PhysicalEducation--SciencesRecreationSocial WorkPhysiologyMental HealthRecreationRehabilitation and TherapyPsychology--BehavioralPsychology--PhysiologicalPsychology--SocialAutismExerciseCerebral Blood Flowmaster thesis10.11575/PRISM/25243