The acute effects of continuous and intermittent cycling on executive function in children

This study assessed the effect of acute continuous and intermittent physical activity (PA) on children's executive function (EF). Twenty-four participants (14 boys M = 10.32 ± 0.48 years), using a within-subjects design, performed (70% HRmax) an (≥85%HRmax; 12 bouts: 30 s work, 45 rest) PA bout cycling, both lasting 15 min. Executive was Stroop task, Digit Span Corsi Blocks tests these were administered before 1 min post PA. Comparing conditions, performance at task (i.e., reaction time) improved in condition after (congruent stimuli) (mean diff 126 ms 59; p 0.047 mean 89 38; 0.031, respectively). The incongruent) 116 46; 0.021 111 49; 0.039, respectively) showing delayed benefit from greater improvements compared to condition. Verbal memory for only no effects visual observed experimental conditions. results demonstrated that bouts might be time-efficient approach enhancing EF, with having benefit.