Mindfulness and HIIT for Executive Function in Children
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores how different activities, such as mindfulness, high-intensity interval training (HIIT), and a combination of both, affect executive function (skills like memory and focus) in children. The researchers aim to determine if combining mindfulness with HIIT is more effective than performing each separately or just resting. Children aged 10-12, without cognitive or neurological disorders and able to exercise, may be suitable for this study. Participants will engage in various activities, and researchers will assess their brain function and cognitive skills. As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity for children to contribute to understanding how exercise and mindfulness can enhance cognitive skills.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether participants need to stop taking their current medications.
Is there any evidence suggesting that this trial's treatments are likely to be safe?
Research shows that both mindfulness and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) are generally safe for children. Mindfulness exercises can help kids focus better and feel less stressed, with no major side effects. HIIT improves fitness and thinking skills in children, with only minor issues like muscle soreness, which is normal after exercise.
In past studies, children doing HIIT reported only mild discomfort, such as sore muscles, and no serious health problems emerged. When combined, mindfulness and HIIT, known as mindful HIIT, remain safe because each activity is safe on its own.
Overall, mindfulness and HIIT are safe for children when done correctly. A qualified adult should always supervise any exercise program for kids to ensure safety.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about this trial because it explores the combined effects of mindfulness and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on executive function in children, a novel approach that hasn't been extensively studied before. Most existing treatments for enhancing executive function, such as cognitive-behavioral therapies or medication, focus on mental exercises or chemical interventions. However, this trial investigates whether physical exercise with a mindful component can offer a dual benefit, potentially improving both physical health and mental processes. By integrating mindfulness with HIIT, researchers hope to uncover a synergy that enhances cognitive function more effectively than either technique alone. This could provide a holistic, non-invasive alternative to current methods, appealing to those looking for complementary or standalone strategies to support children's mental development.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for improving executive function in children?
This trial will compare the effects of different interventions on children's executive function (EF). Research has shown that both high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and mindfulness can positively impact EF, which includes skills like flexible thinking and problem-solving. Participants may receive HIIT-only, which improves these skills in kids and teens. Others may receive mindfulness-only, which enhances EF by boosting focus and problem-solving abilities. Another group will receive a combination of mindfulness with HIIT, called mindful HIIT, which might offer even more benefits by improving both physical and mental EF skills. Studies suggest that adding mindfulness during HIIT rest periods increases mindfulness and may enhance the mental benefits of HIIT alone.56789
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for healthy children aged 10-12 with an IQ of 85 or higher, who can exercise safely and have no cognitive disorders like ADHD or neurological diseases. They should not have engaged in structured physical activities before the lab visits.Inclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Baseline Assessment
Participants undergo intelligence and cardiorespiratory fitness assessments
Intervention
Participants complete each of the four intervention conditions (MF-HIIT, MF-only, HIIT-only, sitting) with heart rate and cognitive tasks measured
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for cognitive outcomes and brain function post-intervention
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- HIIT-only
- MF-HIIT
- MF-only
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Purdue University
Lead Sponsor
University of Oregon
Collaborator