Effectiveness of Resistance Training in People With Down Syndrome: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
Benzo Iglesias MJ, Torres Álamo L, Salazar A, Rocamora Pérez P, Lucena Antón DM. · Journal of applied research in intellectual disabilities : JARID · 2026
Background: We aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of resistance training (RT) in people with Down syndrome (DS) as a way of improving strength, physical and metabolic function, and possible adverse effects.
Methods: Systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs in PubMed, PEDro, Scopus, and WoS databases in September-2023, registered in PROSPERO (CRD42022312810). Methodological quality and risk of bias were analysed using the PEDro scale, the Downs & Black Checklist, and the Cochrane Collaboration Risk of Bias Tool.
Results: Sixteen articles were included. RT increased the strength (SMD = 1.88; 95% CI = (1.26; 2.51); I 2 = 72%) and improved physical function (SMD = -0.58; 95% CI = (-1.06; -0.11); I 2 = 13%), but there were no clear
results on whether it improved anthropometric and cardiorespiratory measures. There were no serious adverse effects.
Conclusion: An increase in overall and maximal muscle strength and improved physical function was produced by RT in DS people. RT is a safe technique as serious adverse effects were not produced.