The work
Dr. Dan Gordon is a respected expert in cardiopulmonary exercise physiology, with more than 20 years of research experience. He leads the MinDSets Study, a pioneering look at how structured exercise can improve thinking, physical health, and wellbeing for people with Down syndrome.
What we support
We have supported Dr. Gordon since 2022, including his MinDSets Study, a systematic review of how aerobic exercise affects health in adults with Down syndrome, and a detailed survey of their exercise habits. Our support continues into the next phase: learning how exercise intensity changes both cognitive and physical results.
Why it matters
Exercise helps almost everyone. Yet there are few evidence-based exercise guidelines made for people with Down syndrome. Dr. Gordon’s work could change that, and help make exercise something doctors prescribe and insurance covers. What his team learns may reach beyond Down syndrome, too.
What we’ve supported
- 2022We began supporting the MinDSets Study.
- ReviewA systematic review of the benefits of aerobic exercise for adults with Down syndrome.
- SurveyA detailed survey of exercise habits among people living with Down syndrome.
- 2025Continued support for the next phase of research, on exercise intensity.
Further reading
- The International Summit on Health Benefits of Physical Fitness for People With Down Syndrome: Current Science, Gaps, Priorities, and Research OpportunitiesSeptember 2025
- The Effects of Prescribed Exercise on the Physical and Cognitive Health of Adults With Down SyndromeSeptember 2024
- The Effects of Prescribed Physical and Cognitive Exercise on Life Satisfaction, Self-Efficacy and Mood States in Adults with Down Syndrome: The MinDSets StudyMarch 2024
- Impact of Exercise on the Physical and Cognitive Health of Adults with Down Syndrome: The MinDSets StudyAugust 2023