Increasing the inclusivity of physical activity research

Being physically active in childhood is important for staying healthy. Regular activity helps children maintain a healthy weight and supports their physical and mental wellbeing. However, many children are living with overweight or obesity, which can affect their long-term health.

Research suggests that adults who are neurodivergent or have learning disabilities are more likely to experience obesity. Our research has shown similar patterns in children. Despite this, there is limited research on the physical activity patterns of children with special educational needs or neurodiverse traits.

Project aims

The aim of our project is to analyse existing data from Born in Bradford to find out:

• How do physical behaviours differ for children with special educational needs or neurodiverse traits?
• How inclusive of children with special educational needs or neurodiverse traits is research into physical activity?

What we hope to achieve

We hope to better understand how children with special educational needs or neurodiverse traits take part in physical activity. This will help in designing physical activity programmes that are suitable and accessible for all children. We also hope to improve how research studies are designed, so children with additional needs are properly included and represented.