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Alexander M, Machado L. Chronic exercise and neuropsychological function in healthy young adults: a randomised controlled trial investigating a running intervention. Cogn Process 2024; 25:241-258. [PMID: 38421460 PMCID: PMC11106121 DOI: 10.1007/s10339-024-01177-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Despite the well-known physical and mental health benefits of regular exercise, many of the world's population, including healthy young adults, grossly undershoot recommended physical activity levels. Chronic exercise has potential to improve cognitive performance and affect in most age groups. However, there is currently a poverty of relevant research in young adults, especially randomised controlled trials. To address this, the current research investigated the effects of a running intervention on neuropsychological function (cognition and affect) in young adults. We predicted that following a running intervention, neuropsychological performance would improve alongside increases in aerobic fitness. Thirty-two healthy young adult university students were randomised (using a 3:1 ratio) into an intervention or control group, with the intervention group (n = 24) asked to run for 30 min three times a week over a 6-week period and the control group (n = 8) asked to maintain their current level of exercise over a 6-week period. We assessed fitness, cognitive performance, affect and running enjoyment at baseline and follow-up, and runners recorded the environmental conditions of their runs. Repeated measures ANCOVAs failed to find any significant effects of the running intervention on fitness or the neuropsychological measures. Anecdotal evidence supported running environment and enjoyment as potentially relevant factors. The failure to find any fitness improvements, which likely underpins the lack of neuropsychological improvements, highlights the importance of monitoring exercise sessions. Coupled with other insights gained from this trial, this article may prove useful towards future endeavours to develop exercise interventions beneficial to young adults.TRN: ACTRN12621000242820, Date of registration: 08/03/2021.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mhairi Alexander
- Department of Psychology, University of Otago, William James Building, 275 Leith Walk, Dunedin, 9054, New Zealand
- Brain Research New Zealand, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Liana Machado
- Department of Psychology, University of Otago, William James Building, 275 Leith Walk, Dunedin, 9054, New Zealand.
- Brain Research New Zealand, Auckland, New Zealand.
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Xiao R, Xu P, Liang XL, Zou Z, Zhong JG, Xiang MQ, Hou XH. Effects of the special olympics unified sports soccer training program on executive function in adolescents with intellectual disabilities. J Exerc Sci Fit 2024; 22:103-110. [PMID: 38268818 PMCID: PMC10806089 DOI: 10.1016/j.jesf.2023.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2023] [Revised: 12/09/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Rang Xiao
- Guangzhou Sport University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ping Xu
- Department of Educational Psychology, School of Leisure Sports and Management, Guangzhou Sport University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xue-Lian Liang
- Department of Sports and Health, Guangzhou Sport University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhi Zou
- Department of Sports and Health, Guangzhou Sport University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiu-Gen Zhong
- Department of Sports and Health, Guangzhou Sport University, Guangzhou, China
- Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
| | - Ming-Qiang Xiang
- Department of Sports and Health, Guangzhou Sport University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiao-Hui Hou
- Department of Sports and Health, Guangzhou Sport University, Guangzhou, China
- Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
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Herold F, Theobald P, Gronwald T, Kaushal N, Zou L, de Bruin ED, Bherer L, Müller NG. Alexa, let's train now! - A systematic review and classification approach to digital and home-based physical training interventions aiming to support healthy cognitive aging. JOURNAL OF SPORT AND HEALTH SCIENCE 2024; 13:30-46. [PMID: 36736727 PMCID: PMC10818117 DOI: 10.1016/j.jshs.2023.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Revised: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is mounting evidence that regular physical activity is an important prerequisite for healthy cognitive aging. Consequently, the finding that almost one-third of the adult population does not reach the recommended level of regular physical activity calls for further public health actions. In this context, digital and home-based physical training interventions might be a promising alternative to center-based intervention programs. Thus, this systematic review aimed to summarize the current state of the literature on the effects of digital and home-based physical training interventions on adult cognitive performance. METHODS In this pre-registered systematic review (PROSPERO; ID: CRD42022320031), 5 electronic databases (PubMed, Web of Science, PsycInfo, SPORTDiscus, and Cochrane Library) were searched by 2 independent researchers (FH and PT) to identify eligible studies investigating the effects of digital and home-based physical training interventions on cognitive performance in adults. The systematic literature search yielded 8258 records (extra 17 records from other sources), of which 27 controlled trials were considered relevant. Two reviewers (FH and PT) independently extracted data and assessed the risk of bias using a modified version of the Tool for the assEssment of Study qualiTy and reporting in EXercise (TESTEX scale). RESULTS Of the 27 reviewed studies, 15 reported positive effects on cognitive and motor-cognitive outcomes (i.e., performance improvements in measures of executive functions, working memory, and choice stepping reaction test), and a considerable heterogeneity concerning study-related, population-related, and intervention-related characteristics was noticed. A more detailed analysis suggests that, in particular, interventions using online classes and technology-based exercise devices (i.e., step-based exergames) can improve cognitive performance in healthy older adults. Approximately one-half of the reviewed studies were rated as having a high risk of bias with respect to completion adherence (≤85%) and monitoring of the level of regular physical activity in the control group. CONCLUSION The current state of evidence concerning the effectiveness of digital and home-based physical training interventions is mixed overall, though there is limited evidence that specific types of digital and home-based physical training interventions (e.g., online classes and step-based exergames) can be an effective strategy for improving cognitive performance in older adults. However, due to the limited number of available studies, future high-quality studies are needed to buttress this assumption empirically and to allow for more solid and nuanced conclusions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabian Herold
- Research Group Degenerative and Chronic Diseases, Movement, Faculty of Health Sciences Brandenburg, University of Potsdam, Potsdam 14476, Germany; Body-Brain-Mind Laboratory, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China.
| | - Paula Theobald
- Research Group Degenerative and Chronic Diseases, Movement, Faculty of Health Sciences Brandenburg, University of Potsdam, Potsdam 14476, Germany
| | - Thomas Gronwald
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Exercise Science and Sports Medicine, MSH Medical School Hamburg, Hamburg 20457, Germany
| | - Navin Kaushal
- Department of Health Sciences, School of Health & Human Sciences, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Liye Zou
- Research Group Degenerative and Chronic Diseases, Movement, Faculty of Health Sciences Brandenburg, University of Potsdam, Potsdam 14476, Germany; Body-Brain-Mind Laboratory, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Eling D de Bruin
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, Institute of Human Movement Sciences and Sport, ETH Zurich, Zurich 8093, Switzerland; Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences, and Society, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm 17177, Sweden; Department of Health, OST - Eastern Swiss University of Applied Sciences, St. Gallen 9001, Switzerland
| | - Louis Bherer
- Montreal Heart Institute, Montreal, QC H1T 1C8, Canada; Department of Medicine, Universite de Montreal, Montreal, QC H3T 1J4, Canada; Centre de Recherche de l'Institut Universitaire de Geriatrie de Montreal, Montreal, QC H3W 1W5, Canada
| | - Notger G Müller
- Research Group Degenerative and Chronic Diseases, Movement, Faculty of Health Sciences Brandenburg, University of Potsdam, Potsdam 14476, Germany; Body-Brain-Mind Laboratory, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
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Liu Y, Hong J, Yin X, Zhang F, Guo Y, Sun P. Relationship between cardiorespiratory fitness and executive function of Chinese Tibetan adolescents aged 13-18. J Sci Med Sport 2023; 26:610-615. [PMID: 37739853 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsams.2023.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Revised: 08/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/24/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Explore the correlation between cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) and execution function (EF) of Chinese Tibetan adolescents at high altitude (HA) areas. DESIGN A cross-sectional survey was used to study 1138 participants aged 13-18 (47.72% boys) at baseline. METHODS Lhasa (3650 m), Nagqu (4500 m), Qamdo (3500 m), and Nyingchi (3100 m) in China were chosen. CRF was measured by the 20 m shuttle run test (20mSRT) and a subsequent estimation of their maximal oxygen consumption (V̇O2max) was calculated using the Léger equations. The three core EFs (inhibition, working memory, and cognitive flexibility) were tested by a modified Eriksen flanker, N-back, and a more-odd shifting. The association between CRF and EF was explored by Pearson correlation, one-way ANOVA, and stratified regression. RESULTS The reaction time (RT) of 1-back, cognitive flexibility with V̇O2max showed a declining trend, (F = 34.475, 27.498, P < 0.01). Interestingly, 2-back RT went up and then went down with V̇O2max. (F = 29.55, P < 0.01). After increasing V̇O2max as a variable, a stratified regression analysis with the RT for 1-back, 2-back, and cognitive flexibility showed that ΔR2 equaled 0.107 ms, 0.071 ms, and 0.091 ms, respectively (P < 0.01). With V̇O2max increased by 1 mL/kg/min, the RT of 1-back, 2-back, and cognitive flexibility shortened 14.697 ms, 15.689 ms, and 11.771 ms, respectively. CONCLUSIONS CRF was positively associated with working memory, and cognitive flexibility development among Chinese Tibetan adolescents living at HA areas, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Liu
- College of Physical Education and Health, East China Normal University, China; Key Laboratory of Adolescent Health Assessment and Exercise Intervention of the Ministry of Education, East China Normal University, China
| | - Jun Hong
- College of Physical Education and Health, East China Normal University, China; Key Laboratory of Adolescent Health Assessment and Exercise Intervention of the Ministry of Education, East China Normal University, China
| | - Xiaojian Yin
- College of Physical Education and Health, East China Normal University, China; Key Laboratory of Adolescent Health Assessment and Exercise Intervention of the Ministry of Education, East China Normal University, China; College of Economics and Management, Shanghai Institute of Technology, China.
| | - Feng Zhang
- College of Physical Education and Health, East China Normal University, China; Key Laboratory of Adolescent Health Assessment and Exercise Intervention of the Ministry of Education, East China Normal University, China
| | - Yaru Guo
- College of Physical Education and Health, East China Normal University, China; Key Laboratory of Adolescent Health Assessment and Exercise Intervention of the Ministry of Education, East China Normal University, China
| | - Pengwei Sun
- College of Physical Education and Health, East China Normal University, China; Key Laboratory of Adolescent Health Assessment and Exercise Intervention of the Ministry of Education, East China Normal University, China
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Feng ZT, Mao ZX, Liu FB, Ou XW. Time course efficiency of MICE and HIIE on inhibitory control and HRV in adolescents with obesity and different cardiorespiratory fitness. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1242190. [PMID: 37663339 PMCID: PMC10470641 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1242190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Adolescent obesity is associated with impaired inhibitory control. Acute exercise can improve executive function. However, due to the influence of exercise intensity, cognitive test timing, and cardiorespiratory fitness (CF) level, the most effective exercise program remains controversial. Methods The current study investigated the time-course effects of moderate-intensity continuous exercise (MICE) and high-intensity interval exercise (HIIE) on inhibitory control (Stroop) and task-related heart rate variability (HRV) in adolescents with different CF. A mixed experimental design of 2 CF levels (high CF, HCF; low CF, LCF) × 3 exercise methods (MICE, HIIE, CON) × 3 test timing (pre, post-0, post-20) was adopted. Heart rate variability (HRV) and Stroop task tests were conducted before exercise (pre), immediately after exercise (post-0), and 20 min after exercise (post-20). Results Individuals with HCF exhibited a positive decrease in Stroop response time immediately and 20 min after MICE and HIIE, compared to pretest response times (RT). Conversely, individuals with LCF showed a slight increase in Stroop task (RT) only immediately after HIIE. All individuals had a slight increase in ACC after MICE and HIIE compared to before exercise. In addition, compared with the control group, the time-domain index (the square root of the mean squared differences of successive NN intervals, RMSSD) of HRV was significantly decreased, the frequency-domain index (the absolute power of the Low-Frequency band/the absolute power of the High-Frequency band ratio, LF/HF) was significantly increased after MICE and HIIE, and the effect of HIIE on RMSSD and LF/HF was significantly greater than that of MICE. Conclusion The current study found that the acute effects of MICE and HIIE on inhibitory control in obese adolescents were influenced by the interaction of cognitive test timing and cardiorespiratory fitness. Individuals with high cardiorespiratory fitness performed better on the Stroop task than individuals with low cardiorespiratory fitness. The inhibitory control of HIIE in high-cardiorespiratory obese adolescents produced positive effects similar to those in MICE but more lasting, suggesting that HIIE is more beneficial for high-cardiorespiratory obese adolescents. MICE promoted inhibitory control in obese adolescents with low cardiorespiratory fitness, but HIIE impaired inhibitory control in obese adolescents with low cardiorespiratory fitness immediately after exercise, suggesting that low cardiopulmonary fitness obese adolescents may be suitable for MICE rather than HIIE exercise intervention. The shift from balanced HRV to sympathetic dominance after acute exercise reflects increased arousal levels and may be one of the underlying mechanisms by which acute exercise brings benefits to executive function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhan-Tao Feng
- School of Psychology, Beijing Sport University, Beijing, China
- College of Sports and Health, Shandong Sport University, Rizhao, China
| | - Zhi-Xiong Mao
- School of Psychology, Beijing Sport University, Beijing, China
| | - Feng-Bo Liu
- School of Physical Education, Zhengzhou University of Light Industry, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xiao-Wei Ou
- College of Sports and Health, Shandong Sport University, Rizhao, China
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Netz Y, Herschkovitz SF, Levin O, Ziv G. The effect of acute exercise on cognitive and motor inhibition - Does fitness moderate this effect? PSYCHOLOGY OF SPORT AND EXERCISE 2023; 65:102344. [PMID: 37665827 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychsport.2022.102344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2022] [Revised: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 09/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Given the extensive evidence on improvements in cognitive inhibition immediately following exercise, and the literature indicating that cognitive and motor inhibitory functions are mediated by overlapping brain networks, the aim of this study was to assess, for the first time, the effect of moderate intensity acute aerobic exercise on multi-limb motor inhibition, as compared to cognitive inhibition. METHOD Participants were 36 healthy adults aged 40-60 years old (mean age 46.8 ± 5.7), who were randomly assigned to experimental or control groups. One-to-two weeks following baseline assessment, participants were asked to perform a three-limb (3-Limb) inhibition task and a vocal version of the Stroop before and after either acute moderate-intense aerobic exercise (experimental group) or rest (control). RESULTS Similar rates of improvement were observed among both groups from baseline to the pre-test. Conversely, a meaningful, yet non-significant trend was seen among the experimental group in their pretest to posttest improvement in both cognitive and motor tasks. In addition, exploratory analysis revealed significant group differences in favor of the experimental group among highly fit participants on the 3-Limb task. A significant correlation was indicated between the inhibition conditions, i.e., choice in the motor inhibition and color/word (incongruent) in the cognitive inhibition, especially in the improvement observed following the exercise. DISCUSSION Moderate-intensity acute aerobic exercise is a potential stimulator of both multi-limb motor inhibition and cognitive inhibition. It appears that high-fit participants benefit from exercise more than low-fit people. Additionally, performance on behavioral tasks that represent motor and cognitive inhibition is related. This observation suggests that fitness levels and acute exercise contribute to the coupling between cognitive and motor inhibition. Neuroimaging methods would allow examining brain-behavior associations of exercise-induced changes in the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yael Netz
- The Academic College at Wingate, Netanya, Israel.
| | | | - Oron Levin
- Movement Control and Neuroplasticity Research Group, Department of Kinesiology, KU Leuven, Belgium; Department of Health Promotion and Rehabilitation, Lithuanian Sports University, Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Gal Ziv
- The Academic College at Wingate, Netanya, Israel
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Mou H, Fang Q, Tian S, Qiu F. Effects of acute exercise with different modalities on working memory in men with high and low aerobic fitness. Physiol Behav 2023; 258:114012. [PMID: 36341835 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2022.114012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2022] [Revised: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aimed to determine the effects of high-intensity interval exercise (HIIE) and moderate-intensity continuous exercise (MICE) on working memory in individuals with high and low aerobic fitness. DESIGN The protocol adopted a between-subjects crossover design. METHODS Forty healthy male college students (mean age = 19.59 ± 1.00 years) were assigned to high fitness (n = 20) or low fitness (n = 20) groups based on their estimated maximum oxygen consumption (VO2max) in the 20 m shuttle run test. All participants were instructed to engage in three acute exercise interventions (10 min HIIE, 20 min HIIE, 20 min MICE) and a reading control intervention on separate days in a randomized order. A spatial 2-back task was performed before and after each intervention to assess working memory. RESULTS Analyses of the 2-back task performance revealed that the working memory of high and low fitness participants benefited from different modalities of acute exercise. Specifically, reaction time in the 2-back task was significantly shorter after 20 min HIIE compared to pre-exercise in high fitness participants, whereas low fitness participants had significantly faster reaction time in the 2-back task after 20 min MICE and 10 min HIIE relative to pre-exercise. CONCLUSIONS The effects of acute aerobic exercise on working memory are modulated by a combination of exercise modality and aerobic fitness. This finding has important implications for providing experimental evidence that participants choose appropriate exercise to undertake based on their level of aerobic fitness to improve cognitive performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Mou
- Department of Physical Education, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China
| | - Qun Fang
- Department of Physical Education, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China
| | - Shudong Tian
- Department of Physical Education, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China
| | - Fanghui Qiu
- Department of Physical Education, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China.
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Bulten R, Bedard C, Graham JD, Cairney J. Effect of cognitively engaging physical activity on executive functions in children. Front Psychol 2022; 13:841192. [PMID: 36059731 PMCID: PMC9428577 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.841192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Physical activity (PA) has been shown to enhance executive functions (EFs) in children, and PA involving a cognitive component may confer additional benefit. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether cognitively engaging PA impacts EF, and whether affect and fitness act as either mediators or moderators of this relationship. Methods A randomized controlled trial was utilized to assess changes in EFs between a 20-min Dual Task (intervention condition), a PA Task (control condition), and a Cognitive Task (control condition). Children were scheduled for two visits in the INfant and Child Health (INCH) Lab at the University of Toronto. Physical fitness was assessed using the 20 m shuttle run, standing long jump, and grip strength tests. EFs were assessed using the Stroop Task, Trail Making Task (TMT), and Forward Working Memory Task (FWMT). Results 38 children (Mage = 11.95 years, SD = 0.49, 61% female) participated. Repeated measures ANOVA showed main interactions between time on inhibition scores (p < 0.05, ηp2 = 0.489), and positive affect scores (p < 0.01, ηp2 = 0.284). Interaction effects between condition and time were not significant (p = 0.787, ηp2 = 0.014, p = .333, ηp2 = 0.061, p = 0.799, ηp2 = 0.013 for inhibition, switching, and passive working memory, respectively). Results showed no significant mediation effect of affect (95% CI = –0.5915, 2.147), or moderating effect between fitness and EF changes. Conclusion Possible explanations for these findings include inadequate cognitive engagement, lack of EF transfer, and statistical power. Results suggest any of these interventions may be beneficial for improving inhibition and positive affect in children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rheanna Bulten
- Michael G. DeGroote Centre for Learning and Discovery, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Chloe Bedard
- School of Public Health and Health Systems, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Jeffrey D. Graham
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Ontario Tech University, Oshawa, ON, Canada
| | - John Cairney
- School of Human Movement and Nutritional Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- *Correspondence: John Cairney,
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Effects of Acute Exercise on Cognitive Flexibility in Young Adults with Different Levels of Aerobic Fitness. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19159106. [PMID: 35897486 PMCID: PMC9331115 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19159106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2022] [Revised: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to evaluate the effects of high-intensity interval exercise (HIIE) and moderate-intensity continuous exercise (MICE) on cognitive flexibility in young adults with differing levels of aerobic fitness. Sixty-six young adults were grouped into high- and low-fit groups based on their final running distance on the 20 m Progressive Aerobic Cardiovascular Endurance Run (PACER) test. Individuals participated in a 10 min HIIE, a 20 min HIIE, a 20 min MICE, and a control session (reading quietly in a chair) in a counterbalanced order. The more-odd shifting task was completed before and approximately 5 min after each intervention to assess cognitive flexibility. The results showed that young adults with a high fitness level gained greater benefits in terms of switch cost from the 20 min HIIE, while low-fitness participants benefited more from the 10 min HIIE and the 20 min MICE. These findings suggest that aerobic fitness may influence the effect of acute HIIE and MICE on cognitive flexibility. Young adults should consider individual fitness level when adopting time-effective and appropriate exercise routines to improve cognitive flexibility.
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Wu J, Xiao W, Yip J, Peng L, Zheng K, Takyi Bentil O, Ren Z. Effects of Exercise on Neural Changes in Inhibitory Control: An ALE Meta-Analysis of fMRI Studies. Front Hum Neurosci 2022; 16:891095. [PMID: 35814955 PMCID: PMC9265250 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2022.891095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
It is widely known that exercise improves inhibitory control; however, the mechanisms behind the cognitive improvement remain unclear. This study analyzes the extant literature on the neuronal effects of exercise on inhibitory control functions. We searched four online databases (Pubmed, Scopus, PsycINFO, and Web of Science) for relevant peer-reviewed studies to identify eligible studies published before September 1, 2021. Among the 4,090 candidate studies identified, 14 meet the inclusion criteria, and the results of 397 participants in these 14 studies are subsequently analyzed. We quantify the neural effects on the entire brain by using GingerALE software and identify 10 clusters of exercise-induced neuronal with either increases/decreases in the superior temporal gyrus (BA 22), precuneus (BA 7), superior frontal gyrus (BA 10), cuneus (BA 19), precuneus (BA 19), caudate, posterior cingulate (BA 19), middle temporal gyrus (B 37), parahippocampal gyrus (BA 30), precentral gyrus (BA 6). Meta-analytic coactivation map (MACM) showed that multiple functional networks overlap with brain regions with activation likelihood estimation (ALE) results. We propose the effect of exercise on neural activity is related to inhibitory control in the extended frontoparietal, default mode network (DMN), visual network, and other pathways. These results provide preliminary evidence of the neural effects of exercise on inhibitory control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinlong Wu
- School of Physical Education, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
- Institute of Textiles and Clothing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Wen Xiao
- School of Physical Education, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Joanne Yip
- Institute of Textiles and Clothing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Li Peng
- College of Physical Education, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Kangyong Zheng
- Department of Sport Rehabilitation, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
| | - Obed Takyi Bentil
- Civil and Environmental Engineering Department, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Zhanbing Ren
- School of Physical Education, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
- *Correspondence: Zhanbing Ren
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Znazen H, Slimani M, Hadadi A, Alzahrani T, Tod D, Bragazzi NL, Souissi N. Acute Effects of Moderate versus High-Intensity Strength Exercise on Attention and Mood States in Female Physical Education Students. Life (Basel) 2021; 11:life11090931. [PMID: 34575080 PMCID: PMC8467463 DOI: 10.3390/life11090931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Revised: 08/20/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The presumed benefits of exercise/physical activity on the brain are an important public health issue. However, the experimental approach to understanding the effects of physical activity on the brain, and more particularly on cognitive functions, has only been studied recently. In particular, females remain underrepresented in the research, despite having a specific training/exercise adaptation/response. The aim of the present study was to examine the acute effects of high- and moderate-intensity strength exercise (3 sets of 8–10 repetitions and 3 sets of 6 repetitions, respectively, with each session lasting approximately 30 min) on attention and mood states in female physical education students. Forty-six female physical education students (Mage = 20.02 ± 1.05 years, MBody Mass Index = 21.07) volunteered to participate in this study. They were divided into three groups: a moderate-intensity strength exercise group (MISEG: n = 15), a high-intensity strength exercise group (HISEG: n = 16), and a control group (CG: n = 15). Attention and psychological states were assessed using the d2 test, Rating of Perceived Exertion (RPE) and the Brunel Mood Scale (BRUMS) questionnaire, respectively, before and after each session. The data showed that in the MISEG attention increased, in terms of concentration (p = 0.05). RPE values, fatigue and confusion were higher for the HISEG than the CG (p < 0.05) and the MISEG (p < 0.05). Vigour was higher for the MISEG than other groups (p < 0.05). In conclusion, moderate-intensity resistance exercise is an appropriate method to improve attention in female participants. The elevated cognitive performance may be due to the changes in RPE and mood states (fatigue, vigour and confusion subscales).
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Affiliation(s)
- Hela Znazen
- Department of Physical Education and Sport, College of Education, Taif University, P.O. Box 11099, Taif 21944, Saudi Arabia; (H.Z.); (A.H.); (T.A.)
| | - Maamer Slimani
- Department of Health Sciences (DISSAL), Postgraduate School of Public Health, Genoa University, 16132 Genoa, Italy
- Higher Institute of Sport and Physical Education of Ksar Said, University of Manouba, Manouba 2037, Tunisia
- Correspondence:
| | - Atyh Hadadi
- Department of Physical Education and Sport, College of Education, Taif University, P.O. Box 11099, Taif 21944, Saudi Arabia; (H.Z.); (A.H.); (T.A.)
| | - Turki Alzahrani
- Department of Physical Education and Sport, College of Education, Taif University, P.O. Box 11099, Taif 21944, Saudi Arabia; (H.Z.); (A.H.); (T.A.)
| | - David Tod
- School of Sport and Exercise Science, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool L3 3AF, UK;
| | - Nicola Luigi Bragazzi
- Laboratory for Industrial and Applied Mathematics (LIAM), Department of Mathematics and Statistics, York University, Toronto, ON M3J 1P3, Canada;
| | - Nizar Souissi
- Tunisian Research Laboratory ‘‘Sports Performance Optimization’’, National Center of Medicine and Science in Sports (CNMSS), El Menzah, Tunis 1004, Tunisia;
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12
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Herold F, Törpel A, Hamacher D, Budde H, Zou L, Strobach T, Müller NG, Gronwald T. Causes and Consequences of Interindividual Response Variability: A Call to Apply a More Rigorous Research Design in Acute Exercise-Cognition Studies. Front Physiol 2021; 12:682891. [PMID: 34366881 PMCID: PMC8339555 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.682891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The different responses of humans to an apparently equivalent stimulus are called interindividual response variability. This phenomenon has gained more and more attention in research in recent years. The research field of exercise-cognition has also taken up this topic, as shown by a growing number of studies published in the past decade. In this perspective article, we aim to prompt the progress of this research field by (i) discussing the causes and consequences of interindividual variability, (ii) critically examining published studies that have investigated interindividual variability of neurocognitive outcome parameters in response to acute physical exercises, and (iii) providing recommendations for future studies, based on our critical examination. The provided recommendations, which advocate for a more rigorous study design, are intended to help researchers in the field to design studies allowing them to draw robust conclusions. This, in turn, is very likely to foster the development of this research field and the practical application of the findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabian Herold
- Department of Neurology, Medical Faculty, Otto von Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany.,Research Group Neuroprotection, German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Magdeburg, Germany
| | | | - Dennis Hamacher
- Department of Sport Science, German University for Health and Sports (DHGS), Berlin, Germany
| | - Henning Budde
- Faculty of Human Sciences, MSH Medical School Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Liye Zou
- Exercise and Mental Health Laboratory, Institute of KEEP Collaborative Innovation, School of Psychology, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Tilo Strobach
- Department of Psychology, MSH Medical School Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Notger G Müller
- Department of Neurology, Medical Faculty, Otto von Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany.,Research Group Neuroprotection, German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Magdeburg, Germany.,Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences (CBBS), Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Thomas Gronwald
- Department of Performance, Neuroscience, Therapy and Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, MSH Medical School Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
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13
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Physical Activity and Inhibitory Control: The Mediating Role of Sleep Quality and Sleep Efficiency. Brain Sci 2021; 11:brainsci11050664. [PMID: 34069547 PMCID: PMC8160741 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci11050664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives: the current study aimed to investigate the relationship between physical activity (PA) level and inhibitory control performance and then to determine whether this association was mediated by multiple sleep parameters (i.e., subjective sleep quality, sleep duration, sleep efficiency, and sleep disturbance). Methods: 180 healthy university students (age: 20.15 ± 1.92 years) from the East China Normal University were recruited for the present study. PA level, sleep parameters, and inhibitory control performance were assessed using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index Scale (PSQI), and a Stroop test, respectively. The data were analyzed using structural equation modeling. Results: A higher level of PA was linked to better cognitive performance. Furthermore, higher subjective sleep quality and sleep efficiency were associated with better inhibitory control performance. The mediation analysis revealed that subjective sleep quality and sleep efficiency mediated the relationship between PA level and inhibitory control performance. Conclusion: our results are in accordance with the literature and buttress the idea that a healthy lifestyle that involves a relatively high level of regular PA and adequate sleep patterns is beneficial for cognition (e.g., inhibitory control performance). Furthermore, our study adds to the literature that sleep quality and sleep efficiency mediates the relationship between PA and inhibitory control performance, expanding our knowledge in the field of exercise cognition.
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14
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Graham JD, Bremer E, Fenesi B, Cairney J. Examining the Acute Effects of Classroom-Based Physical Activity Breaks on Executive Functioning in 11- to 14-Year-Old Children: Single and Additive Moderation Effects of Physical Fitness. Front Pediatr 2021; 9:688251. [PMID: 34414142 PMCID: PMC8369035 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2021.688251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Accepted: 07/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: Research supports the efficacy of acute, classroom-based, physical activity breaks on executive functioning in children. However, research pertaining to the effect of physical fitness on the acute physical activity-executive functioning relationship remains limited. The primary purpose of this study was to investigate the acute effects of classroom-based, teacher-delivered, physical activity breaks on executive functioning in 11-14-year-old children. We also investigated the potential moderating effects of both aerobic and musculoskeletal fitness on the acute physical activity-executive functioning relationship. Method: Participants (N = 116) completed pre- and post-test assessments of executive functioning (i.e., inhibition, switching, and updating) separated by a classroom-based physical activity break or sedentary classroom work. We manipulated the dose (i.e., length) and type of physical activity breaks. With regards to dose, participants in the experimental conditions engaged in 5-, 10-, or 20-min of physical activity whereas controls completed sedentary classroom math work at their desk. With regards to type, one experimental condition completed traditional physical activity breaks whereas the other experimental condition completed academic physical activity breaks (i.e., performed mental math and physical activity). Participants' mood, motivation, and self-efficacy were also assessed following the experimental manipulations. Results: Overall, executive function scores improved across each assessment following the physical activity breaks when compared to sedentary classroom work regardless of dose and type. Participants also reported more positive mood states, higher motivation to complete the executive function tests, and higher self-efficacy to perform the executive functions tests following the physical activity breaks. Single moderation analyses showed that low-moderate levels of aerobic fitness moderated the acute physical activity-executive functioning relationship. Additive moderation analysis showed, collectively, that both aerobic and musculoskeletal fitness moderated the acute physical activity-executive functioning relationship. Conclusion: Findings from the present study provide evidence for the acute effects of short (i.e., 5-20 min) classroom-based physical activity breaks on executive functioning and psychological states in children. Results also suggest levels of both aerobic and musculoskeletal fitness moderate these effects, however future research is needed to further elucidate this complex relationship.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey D Graham
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Ontario Tech University, Oshawa, ON, Canada
| | - Emily Bremer
- Faculty of Kinesiology & Physical Education, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Barbara Fenesi
- Faculty of Education, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - John Cairney
- School of Human Movement and Nutrition Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
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