Effects of aerobic exercise on executive function in children and adolescents with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Systematic review shows aerobic exercise enhances executive function in children and adolescents with ADHD, suggesting effective intervention strategies.
Key Points
Aerobic exercise significantly improves executive functions in children with ADHD, including inhibitory control and cognitive flexibility.
The meta-analysis revealed a moderate effect size of aerobic intervention on working memory, with a standardized mean difference of -0.52.
Network meta-analysis indicated that ball-based aerobic exercise yields the highest improvement for inhibitory control in ADHD children.
Engaging in chronic aerobic exercise for 12 weeks, with 3 to 5 sessions per week, substantially enhances executive function outcomes.