Effects of high-intensity interval training on executive functions in children and adolescents: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Abstract

Background: In recent years, research has focused on the effect of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on cognitive function has strongly increased. However, little is known about the effects of HIIT on executive function (EFs) in children and adolescents. Objective: This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effects of HIIT on EFs in children and adolescents. Methods: A literature search was performed using four electronic databases: PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and EBSCOhost. We included studies published since 2010 that examined HIIT interventions on EFs (Inhibitory Control (IC), Working Memory (WM) and Cognitive Flexibility (CF)) with participants aged between 6 and 18 years. Results: Seven of the 295 studies were included in this review. Analysis of HIIT effects, as well as sensitivity analysis, indicated that participation in HIIT exercise sessions led to a significant improvement in WM (MD = 0.29, 95% CI 0.08; 0.05; z = 2.73, p = 0.01; I 2 = 92%; p < 0.01). However, the analysis of the effects of HIIT on IC indicated that participation in HIIT exercise sessions was not significant (MD = -1.3, 95% CI 20.02; 17.41; p=0.26; z = -0.14, p =0.89; I 2 = 22%; p= 0.26). Conclusion: Our study provides evidence that participation in an HIIT program can improve the working memory of children and adolescents.