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.

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78% of parents reported a noticeable increase in their child’s confidence.

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The average minutes of sleep increase by 238 per night.

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Daily percentage of time spent in sedentary behavior decreased by 8%

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56% of parents reported that their child became more open to trying new experiences.

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The percentage of participants who met daily physical activity recommendations (60+ minutes per day) increased 29%

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78% of parents reported improvements in their child’s social skills

Testimonials

Researchers

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Keith Brazendale, Ph.D., MS

Assistant Professor
Health Sciences
Location: HS II Room: 210A

Student Researchers

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Michelle Murray
Judo Program Staff Leader

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Hayden Runnels
Judo Program Staff

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Hannah Vanhoozier
Judo Program Staff

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