Effects of group-based versus individual-based exercise training on motor performance in children with developmental coordination disorder: A randomized controlled pilot study

Objective: To compare the effects of group-based and individual-based motor skill training on motor performance in children with developmental coordination disorder. Design: Randomized controlled pilot intervention study. Subjects/patients: Twenty-three children (4girls) with developmental coordination disorder (mean age (standard deviation (SD)) 8 years (1 year and 2 months)). Methods: Twelve children were randomly assigned to undergo a motor training programme once a week for 8 consecutive weeks in a group setting, and 11 children received the same training on an individual basis during the same period. Each child was also instructed to perform home exercises on a daily basis. The Movement Assessment Battery for Children (MABC) was used to assess motor ability. Home exercise compliance and parental satisfaction with the programmes were also evaluated. Results: A significant reduction in the MABC total impairment score was found following both group-based (mean -4.4 (SD 5.0), p=0.003) and individual-based training (mean -5.2 (SD 5.1), p=0.016). However, the change in total impairment score did not differ significantly between the 2 groups (p=0.379). There was similarly no significant between-group difference in home exercise compliance (p=0.288) and parental satisfaction (p=0.379). Conclusion: Group-based training produced similar gains in motor performance to individual-based training. Group-based training may be the preferred treatment option due to the associated cost savings.