High-Intensity Interval Training and Exergaming Can Improve Inhibitory Control in Female Primary School Students

Abstract

Background: Executive functions (EFs), particularly inhibitory control, play a critical role in cognitive development and academic achievement. Although physical activity (PA) has been shown to enhance EFs, the acute effects of different high-intensity exercise modalities, such as high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and exergames, remain insufficiently understood. This study examined the immediate and delayed effects of these interventions on inhibitory control in primary school girls, compared with a control condition. Methods: Twelve girls (mean ± SD age = 10.41 ± 0.51 years) participated in a counterbalanced crossover study and completed three 30-minute conditions (HIIT, Exergame, and Control) separated by a 4-day washout period. Inhibitory control was assessed using the Stroop Color-Word Test immediately after each condition and again 45 minutes later. Data were analyzed using a 3 (Condition) × 2 (Time) within-subject repeated-measures analysis of variance (ANOVA). Results: A significant main effect of Condition was observed for Stroop accuracy interference scores (P < .001), whereas no significant effects were observed for reaction time interference (P = .729). Post hoc analyses revealed that both the HIIT and Exergame conditions yielded significantly lower accuracy interference scores than the Control condition (both P ≤ .002). No significant differences were detected between the two exercise conditions (P > .05). Conclusions: A single bout of either traditional HIIT or exergaming can acutely enhance inhibitory control accuracy in primary school girls, with these benefits persisting for at least 45 minutes after exercise. Given their comparable effects, both modalities represent promising strategies for promoting cognitive performance in school settings and support the use of high-intensity PA, including technology-based exercise interventions, to facilitate executive function in children.