The Effect of Acute High-Intensity Interval Training on Executive Function: A Systematic Review

Area of Science:

• Exercise Physiology
• Cognitive Neuroscience
• Sports Science

Background:

• High-intensity interval training (HIIT) is a time-efficient method for enhancing physical health.
• The impact of acute HIIT on executive functions (EF) remains incompletely understood.
• Systematic review needed to consolidate evidence on HIIT and EF.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and quantify the effect of acute HIIT on overall EF.
• To identify factors that moderate the relationship between acute HIIT and EF.
• To provide evidence-based insights for optimizing HIIT protocols for cognitive enhancement.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature search of PubMed, Medline, Scopus, and CENTRAL databases up to January 2021.
• Analysis of 24 studies examining acute HIIT's effect on EF outcomes.
• Categorization and analysis of moderating factors: EF assessment, exercise intervention, and sample characteristics.

Main Results:

• 61% of outcomes (35/57) across 24 studies demonstrated a positive effect of acute HIIT on overall EF.
• Moderating factors include EF components (inhibition, updating), assessment timing (<30 min), exercise duration (11-30 min), and participant age (<40 years).

Conclusions:

• Acute HIIT is a viable strategy for improving executive functions.
• Specific EF components, assessment timing, exercise duration, and participant age are key moderators.
• Further research can refine HIIT protocols for targeted cognitive benefits.