Effects of Exercise Snacks on Physical Health and Cognitive Function in Individuals With Intellectual Disabilities

Intellectual disability (ID) is a neurodevelopmental disorder accompanied by sedentary lifestyles, which worsens cognitive function and physical health. Short-duration high-frequency exercise snacks (ES) may be a feasible intervention for adults with ID. This randomized controlled crossover study aims to explore the acute effects of exercise snacks, conventional HIIT and daily routine control on cognitive function, stereotyped behaviors and prefrontal cortex activation in adults with mild to moderate ID. All participants will receive three intervention conditions with a 1-week washout period between each trial. Neurophysiological indicators including EEG and heart rate variability will be measured to reveal the underlying mechanisms.

Inclusion Criteria: 1. Aged 18-35 years old; 2. Clinically diagnosed mild to moderate intellectual disability; 3. Able to follow simple verbal instructions and complete exercise protocols; 4. No contraindications for moderate physical activity confirmed by medical inquiry; 5. Participants or legal guardians provide written informed consent; 6. Maintain stable daily routine and do not participate in other structured exercise programs during the trial. Exclusion Criteria: 1. Severe physical disabilities, orthopedic injury or neurological disorders that restrict movement; 2. History of cardiovascular disease, uncontrolled hypertension or other exercise contraindications; 3. Current psychiatric medication that significantly affects motor or cognitive function; 4. Inability to cooperate with EEG and physiological signal collection; 5. Pregnancy; 6. Participation in other interventional studies within the past 3 months.