Physical Activity Mentoring Programs For People With Intellectual And Developmental Disabilities: A Scoping Review

ORCID

Oviedo: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0396-4185

MSU Affiliation

College of Education; Department of Kinesiology

Creation Date

2026-04-29

Abstract

Background: Physical activity and mentorship programs provide several benefits for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This article seeks to provide guidelines for the development of mentoring interventions to support physical activity for this group of people. Method: An interpretative scoping review was implemented. Eligible studies involved people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and mentors, mentees or program beneficiaries of physical activity-related mentoring. Results: Thirteen studies met the inclusion criteria. Mentoring was linked with improved personal factors, enhancement in environmental bindings, and healthier behaviours. Common barriers included caregiver over-protection, transportation limitations, and insufficient mentor-mentee ratios. Conclusion: Effective physical activity mentoring for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities hinges on balancing personal development with supportive social and physical environments. Integrating face-to-face and e-mentoring components may broaden reach and sustainability. Future work should prioritise rigorous trial designs and consistent reporting of FITT principles to refine evidence-based guidelines.

Publication Date

10-24-2025

Publication Title

Journal of Intellectual and Developmental Disability

Publisher

Taylor and Francis

First Page

1

Last Page

14

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Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

https://doi.org/10.3109/13668250.2025.2572175