UCF Judo Program:
Inspiring Confidence Through Movement
Help sustain and grow the UCF Judo Program:
Overview
The UCF Judo for Autism Program was started in 2018 by former UCF Associate Professor Jeanette Garcia (Department of Health Sciences). As the name implies, the program began with a cohort of children and adolescents diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Research from this program demonstrated positive physical and psychosocial health outcomes post-intervention.
78% of parents reported a noticeable increase in their child’s confidence.
The average minutes of sleep increase by 238 per night.
Daily percentage of time spent in sedentary behavior decreased by 8%
56% of parents reported that their child became more open to trying new experiences.
The percentage of participants who met daily physical activity recommendations (60+ minutes per day) increased 29%
78% of parents reported improvements in their child’s social skills
Research Publications
Researchers
Student Researchers
Michelle Murray
Judo Program Staff Leader
Hayden Runnels
Judo Program Staff
Hannah Vanhoozier
Judo Program Staff
