Luis Columna

Luis Columna’s research program focuses on families and children with developmental disabilities (e.g., autism spectrum disorder, Down syndrome). Through my research we attempt to identify ways to increase the participation of families (especially Hispanic) of children with disabilities into physical activity and also my research focuses on ways to better prepare physical activity professionals to work with diverse populations. To address the physical activity needs of children with disabilities and their parents, Dr. Columna developed the Fit Families Program. Fit Families is a physical activity program that brings together children with disabilities (e.g. visual impairments: autism spectrum disorders), their parents, college students and in-service professionals in the fields of adapted physical education, special educators, psychologist, physical education, and exercise science, among others.