The impact of figure skating on reducing anxiety levels in children with autism spectrum disorders

Importance. Anxiety disorder, which often accompanies children with autism, is one of the key barriers to general life support and adaptation in society. According to our observations, a highly coordinated sport (figure skating). It can not only have a positive effect on the development of a child’s motor abilities, but also on the anxiety levels of children with autism. According to parents, children with autism who regularly engage in figure skating significantly decreased anxiety levels, expressed in mood swings and behavioral reactions to various everyday situations. The purpose of the study is to analyze the indicators of physical fitness of children with autism who regularly engage in figure skating, as well as to identify the positive impact of these indicators on the anxiety level of children with ASD.

Materials and Methods. A theoretical review of domestic and foreign literature, observation, testing, questioning of parents (A.I. Zakharov test), assessment of the growth rate of the main indicators of physical fitness of pupils according to the formula of V.I. Usakov, the formula for calculating arithmetic averages.

Results and Discussion. The physical qualities’ diagnosis results of children with autism in correlation with a favorable reduction in anxiety levels can contribute to the emotional regulation of children, as well as their successful integration into a society of people without disabilities.

Conclusion. Children with autism who regularly engage in figure skating showed a significant increase in indicators of physical qualities (depending on the vestibular apparatus: coordination and balance). Parents of children have made progress in the emotional sphere: the level of anxiety has decreased. The presented results are also optimistic for the social sphere of children, contributing to the development of their communication with others. 

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