Optimal dose and type of physical activity for enhancing executive functions in children and adolescents: a network...

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of different physical activity (PA) types on executive functions (EFs) in children (6-12 years) and adolescents (13-18 years).

Data were analyzed using Bayesian network meta-analysis combined with model-based dose-response modeling. PA dose was standardized to metabolic equivalent of task minutes per week (METs-min/week). Effect sizes were estimated using standardized mean differences (SMDs) and 95% credible intervals (CrIs). Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias 2.0 tool, and certainty of evidence was evaluated with CINeMA. The protocol was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42023422762).

Dance was identified as the most effective PA for enhancing working memory accuracy (SMD = 0.64, 95% CrI: 0.20 to 1.07) and cognitive flexibility reaction time (SMD = - 0.99, 95% CrI: - 1.91 to - 0.06) at optimal doses of 500 METs-min/week and 150 METs-min/week, respectively. Mixed exercise significantly improved inhibitory control accuracy (SMD = 0.52, 95% CrI: 0.21 to 0.82) at an optimal dose of 1500 METs-min/week. The certainty of evidence varied, with moderate confidence for some outcomes and low to very low confidence for others.

These findings highlight the importance of structured PA interventions optimized according to the most effective PA modality and dosage thresholds for improving specific executive function components. Such tailored PA programs may provide a more effective approach for enhancing cognitive development in children and adolescents.