The effects of flexibility on the development of cardiovascular endurance in mildly and moderately mentally retarded adults.

Abstract

This study was completed to determine if a significant difference existed between a program of continuous motion (run/walk) preceded by a flexibility warm-up period and a continuous motion program in the development of cardiovascular endurance in mildly and moderately mentally retarded adults. Thirty-nine subjects were randomly divided into three groups. All groups were tested for cardiovascular endurance using the six-minute run/walk. Flexibility measures for the ankle, knee, hip, and shoulder were also taken. Group I ran and walked for fifteen minutes following ten minutes of static flexibility exercises. Group II ran and walked only. Group III was designated as the control group. Training continued for eight weeks, twice a week. Results showed a significant increase in cardiovascular endurance for Group I and increases for Group II, although not significant. No increase was seen for Group III. Five of the seven flexibility measures showed a significant increase for Group I, one for Group II, and none for the control group, Group III.