Exercise trials report gains in several areas of adolescent cognition
A meta-analysis found favorable cognitive test results across several domains, while incomplete reporting limits conclusions about the best exercise type or lasting benefits.
Based on the published abstract. The full paper may contain additional methods, results and limitations.
The 30-second takeaway
The pooled results favored exercise for attention, working memory, cognitive flexibility, inhibitory control, and executive function in adolescents. An analysis by exercise type also favored aerobic activity. However, the abstract does not establish that aerobic exercise is superior in direct comparisons, or show whether the cognitive test differences translate into better school performance.
The abstract omits intervention durations and control details, and its methods and results specify different confidence levels. This abstract-based account cannot resolve that reporting inconsistency or assess how long any improvements lasted.
Several outcomes, rather than a single score
The researchers separated cognitive domains because studies used different measures. Favorable pooled findings across those domains describe performance on the included assessments; they are not percentages of improvement in overall intelligence or everyday functioning.
Exercise type remains a separate question
Aerobic exercise had the largest reported subgroup effect. The abstract does not describe direct comparisons that would establish a preferred exercise type, so that subgroup result should be distinguished from demonstrated superiority.
The original publication
The effects of physical exercise on cognitive function in adolescents: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Liu L, Xin X, Zhang Y
Front Psychol · 2025
- PubMed ID
- 40792082
- Record checked
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