Effects of Exercise on Hyperactivity/Impulsivity and Inhibitory Control at Behavioral and Electrophysiological Levels...

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Psychology
• Sports Science

Background:

• Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.
• Exercise is increasingly explored as a non-pharmacological intervention for ADHD symptoms.
• Understanding the precise effects of exercise on cognitive functions and neural correlates in ADHD is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review the impact of exercise interventions on hyperactivity/impulsivity, inhibitory control, and related event-related potential (ERP) components in individuals with ADHD.
• To identify factors moderating the effects of exercise on these outcomes.

Main Methods:

• A systematic literature search was conducted to identify relevant studies.
• Methodological quality was assessed using the Revised Cochrane Risk-of-Bias tool (RoB 2) and Risk of Bias in Non-Randomized Studies of Interventions (ROBINS-I).
• Data analysis was performed using Stata software.

Main Results:

• Thirty-six studies (38 comparisons) involving acute and chronic exercise interventions were included.
• Exercise demonstrated a small-to-moderate improvement in inhibitory control, but no significant effects on hyperactivity/impulsivity or N2/P3 ERP components.
• Subgroup analyses indicated that chronic interventions, three sessions per week, and interventions in children/adolescents significantly enhanced inhibitory control.

Conclusions:

• Exercise positively impacts inhibitory control in individuals with ADHD, especially in younger populations.
• Chronic exercise regimens, particularly those with a frequency of three sessions weekly, appear most effective.
• Exercise does not significantly improve hyperactivity/impulsivity or specific ERP markers in ADHD; its overall impact should be considered cautiously.