Effect of high-intensity interval training on executive function for healthy children and adolescents: a systematic review / 中国康复理论与实践

ABSTRACT

ObjectiveTo 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. MethodsLiterature 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. ResultsFifteen 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. ConclusionHIIT 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.