The Effect of Exergame-Supported Training on Reaction Time and Agility in Adolescent Table Tennis Players With Autism Spectrum Disorder

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is associated with a high prevalence of motor impairments, including deficits in reaction time and agility, both of which are key determinants of performance in table tennis. Despite the growing participation of individuals with ASD in competitive table tennis, no prior study has examined whether exergame-based training can improve these two performance components in this population.

This study uses a quasi-experimental design with a non-equivalent control group (allocation is by training centre rather than individual randomization, as sufficient eligible participants were not available at a single centre). Participants in the exercise group replace 20 minutes of their routine training with exergame training using a commercially available light-reaction device (BlazePod), delivered one-to-one under their usual club coach's supervision, twice weekly for 8 weeks across four progressively increasing difficulty levels (16 sessions total, 320 minutes of exergame training). The control group continues routine table tennis training only, matched for total session duration. Training protocols were developed by a multidisciplinary team including table tennis coaches experienced with athletes with disabilities and a special education expert, and all coaches received a standardised briefing and training manual before the intervention began.

Outcomes are assessed at baseline and after the 8-week intervention. Reaction time is assessed with the same light-reaction device used in training, and agility is assessed with a standard T-test protocol using photoelectric timing.

Reporting follows CONSORT 2010 guidance as closely as applicable to a non-randomized design, supplemented by the TREND statement for non-randomized designs.