Mindfulness induction and executive function after high-intensity interval training with and without mindful recovery...

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Exercise Physiology
• Cognitive Psychology

Background:

• High-intensity interval training (HIIT) is known for its physical and cognitive benefits.
• Mindfulness practices are associated with improved executive functions.
• The combined effect of mindfulness during HIIT recovery on cognitive performance is not well understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of integrating mindfulness-based activities into HIIT recovery intervals.
• To assess the effects on state mindfulness induction.
• To evaluate subsequent changes in executive function performance, including inhibitory control, cognitive flexibility, and working memory.

Main Methods:

• A within-subject crossover trial involving 40 adult participants.
• Two conditions: 30-minute HIIT with mindfulness recovery intervals (Mindful) and without (Non-mindful).
• Executive functions were measured using flanker, switch-flanker, and n-back tasks before and after each condition.

Main Results:

• The Mindful condition resulted in significantly higher state mindfulness compared to the Non-mindful condition.
• Dispositional mindfulness correlated with state mindfulness only in the Mindful condition.
• While cognitive flexibility (switch-flanker accuracy) improved in the Non-mindful condition, it did not change in the Mindful condition. Improvements in inhibitory control and working memory were observed in both conditions and did not differ between them.

Conclusions:

• Integrating mindfulness during HIIT recovery effectively increases state mindfulness.
• This heightened mindfulness state did not lead to additional improvements in inhibitory control or working memory.
• Mindfulness integration during HIIT recovery may attenuate the positive effects of HIIT on cognitive flexibility.