"Given the growing prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in the U.S., many researchers have dedicated their work to improving the quality of life for this population through the reduction in ASD symptoms. Interestingly, a growing body of research has suggested these symptoms may be related to aspects of cognitive function that have been shown to be affected by short-bouts of physical activity. Therefore, this study sought to explore the effects of short duration physical activity on cognitive function in individuals with ASD. For this study, 18 individuals with ASD and 18 typically developing (TD) individuals completed a computer task to assess cognitive function before and after either walking on a treadmill or sitting while reading. Findings from the study indicated that participants with ASD had poorer response accuracy to the task when compared to their TD peers. Additionally, prior to the walking condition, participants with ASD responded slower on average when compared to their performance prior to the reading condition. Although there is evidence supporting a difference between those with ASD and their TD peers in cognitive function, it is still unclear what role physical activity may play in addressing this difference. However, this study does provide an initial foundation for future research in this area by providing insight for study designs and feasibility in this area of research."--Page i.
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