The Collateral Effects of Antecedent Exercise on Stereotypy and Other Nonstereotypic Behaviors Exhibited by Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Systematic Review

The presence of stereotypy is one of the core features exhibited by individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Stereotypy can interfere with academic engagement and become a major barrier to appropriate education and social development of individuals with ASD. Studies have shown that antecedent physical exercise can produce reductions in stereotypy and positive collateral effects. The purpose of the current systematic review was to examine the collateral effects of antecedent physical exercise on stereotypy and engagement in nonstereotypic behaviors. The findings suggest that individuals with ASD can benefit from incorporating antecedent physical exercise with regard to stereotypy and other positive collateral behaviors. Implications of the results and areas for further research are discussed.