Combined aerobic and brain exercise can improve executive function among adolescent girls
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Abstract
Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of a training program consisting of aerobic exercise, video games, brain exercises, and combination of all of it on the executive functions among adolescent girls. Methods: The research utilized a semi-experimental design with a mixed design approach, where the training groups were treated as between-group factors and the assessed tests (pre-test and post-test) as within-group factors. A total of 48 female students aged 11 to 17 from Deir city (Ahvaz, Iran) were randomly assigned to four equal groups: video game, brain exercise, aerobic exercise, and combined. Prior to the training sessions, all participants completed tests assessing inhibitory, working memory, and cognitive flexibility in a pre-test. These exercises were conducted three times a week for 20 minutes per session, totaling 12 sessions. Following the intervention, a post-test was administered under the same conditions as the pre-test. Results: The results of the covariance analysis revealed that video games had a significant effect on working memory and inhibitory, brain exercises had an impact on working memory, cognitive flexibility, and inhibitory, and aerobic exercise influenced working memory and inhibitory. However, there was no significant difference between aerobic exercise and video games in terms of cognitive flexibility. Conclusion: In conclusion, conducting an intervention course incorporating video games, brain exercises, and aerobic exercise can improve executive functions such as working memory, selective attention, and cognitive flexibility. Therefore, it is recommended that teachers and sports coaches consider implementing combined training approach to enhance executive functions in teenagers.
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References
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