《Chinese Journal of Rehabilitation Theory and Practice》 ›› 2023, Vol. 29 ›› Issue (9): 1012-1020.doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1006-9771.2023.09.003

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Effect of high-intensity interval training on executive function for healthy children and adolescents: a systematic review

WANG Junyu1,2, YANG Yong3, YUAN Xun2, XIE Ting4, ZHUANG Jie1,5()   

  1. 1. School of Exercise and Health, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai 200438, China
    2. Officers College of PAP, Chengdu, Sichuan 610000, China
    3. School of Physical Education, Chaohu University, Chaohu, Anhui 238024, China
    4. Chengdu Xinqiao Primary School, Chengdu, Sichuan 610000, China
    5. Shanghai Research Center for Physical Fitness and Health of Children and Adolescents, Shanghai 200438, China
  • Received:2023-08-16 Revised:2023-08-25 Published:2023-09-25 Online:2023-10-26
  • Contact: ZHUANG Jie E-mail:zhuangjiesh@163.com
  • Supported by:
    National Social Science Foundation(18BTY095)

Abstract:

Objective To systematically review the effect of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on executive function for healthy children and adolescents, and delineate the factors related to the intervention outcome.

Methods Literature about the effect of HIIT on executive functions for healthy children and adolescent was retrieved from Web of Science, PubMed, Cochrane, Embase, Google Scholar, and CNKI, up to July 31st, 2023. The methodological quality was evaluated using the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) scale, and relevant data were systematically reviewed.

Results Fifteen researches were included, from nine countries, comprising 13 randomized controlled trials with the scores of PEDro scale from five to eight, involving 17 021 participants aged six to 18 years. They were published mainly from 2016 to 2023. The primary factors related to the intervention outcome were the age of participants, HIIT intervention programs, and work-to-rest ratio. HIIT significantly improved working memory and inhibitory control in healthy children, while it was limited for adolescents.

Conclusion HIIT can significantly improve inhibitory control and working memory in healthy children. Key factors related to the intervention outcomes include the age of participants and the specifics of the HIIT program, etc.

Key words: children, adolescents, high-intensity interval training, executive function, systematic review

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