PURPOSE OF THE ARTICLE: This study aims to evaluate the literature, peer-reviewed clinical trials investigating the effects of combined exercise interventions on individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Various databases, using various descriptors and Boolean operators were utilized. RESULTS: Eight studies meet the eligibility criteria. Regarding the anthropometric measures/body composition variable, the meta-analysis revealed that combined physical exercise did not have a significant effect (standard mean difference (SMD) -0.16; 95% CI -0.34 to 0.03; Z = 1.68; p = 0.09). For the lipid profile variable, the combined exercise interventions did not show a significant effect (SMD -0.07; 95% CI -0.43 to 0.29; Z = 0.38; p = 0.71). Combined exercise training had a significant effect on increasing functional capacity (SMD 0.28; 95% CI 0.01 to 0.54; Z = 2.03; p = 0.04), cardiorespiratory function (SMD 0.80; 95% CI 0.34 to 1.26; Z = 3.41; p <= 0.001), and strength (SMD 0.77; 95% CI 0.45 to 1.08; Z = 4.78; p <= 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Participants from the intervention group that took part in combined exercise training showed a higher probability of improving their functional, cardiorespiratory, and strength capacity compared to the control group.

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