Neuroplasticity-Oriented FITT Training: Fine and Gross Motor Development by Gender in Students with Intellectual Disabilities

Abstract

Study purpose. This study aimed to examine the effects of FITT-based training on fine and gross motor development among students with intellectual disabilities through separate gender-based analyses

Materials and methods. This study employed a randomized trial using a quasi-experimental pretest–posttest design. A total of 70 students with intellectual disabilities (48 boys and 22 girls), aged 6–10 years, were recruited from eight special education schools in Indonesia using purposive sampling. Participants completed a FITT-based training program conducted twice weekly for 12 sessions at moderate intensity (60–75% of maximum heart rate), with each session lasting 45–60 minutes. Fine motor performance was assessed using the Nine-Hole Peg Test (NHPT), while gross motor development was measured using the Test of Gross Motor Development–Second Edition (TGMD-2). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Wilcoxon Signed-Rank tests, and Mann–Whitney U tests.

Results. Significant improvements were observed in fine motor performance among boys (Z = -3.320, p = .001) and girls (Z = -2.950, p = .003). Gross motor performance also improved significantly among boys (Z = -5.770, p < .001) and girls (Z = -4.030, p < .001). However, no significant gender differences were found in fine motor gain scores (p = .795) or gross motor gain scores (p = .512), indicating comparable intervention effects across gender groups.

Conclusions. FITT-based training effectively improved fine and gross motor performance among students with intellectual disabilities regardless of gender. The findings support the potential role of neuroplasticity-oriented interventions in promoting motor development and functional performance in educational and rehabilitation settings.