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Document Type

Abstract

Publication Date

1-14-2026

Abstract

Physical exercise, spanning from early childhood to adulthood, exerts positive influences on cognitive function. This study employed systematic review, network meta-analysis, and traditional meta-analysis to investigate the interventional effects of exercise on working memory in children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Relevant literature was retrieved from multiple databases. After screening and data extraction, study quality was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool. Meta-analysis, sensitivity analysis, and publication bias analysis were conducted using Review Manager 5.4 and Stata 18.0 to evaluate the impact of exercise on working memory in children with ADHD Among 1,296 screened studies, 49 met the inclusion criteria, with 21 included in the meta-analysis. Results demonstrated that exercise significantly improved working memory in children with ADHD (P < 0.05), including both spatial and verbal working memory. Subgroup analysis revealed optimal spatial working memory improvements with interventions lasting 8–12 weeks, 3–4 sessions per week, and 60–90 minutes per session (P < 0.05). For verbal working memory, ≥5 sessions per week and sessions exceeding 90 minutes were most effective (P < 0.05). Network meta-analysis indicated that multi-component exercise programs (e.g., combined aerobic and resistance training) were superior for spatial working memory, while virtual reality (VR)-enhanced training showed advantages for verbal working memory. Sensitivity and publication bias analyses confirmed result robustness, with a low likelihood of publication bias. Conclusions/Discussion: Physical exercise improves both spatial and verbal working memory in children with ADHD. Interventions lasting ≥12 weeks, 3–4 sessions per week, and 60–90 minutes per session optimize spatial working memory, whereas 8–12 weeks, ≥5 sessions per week, and sessions >90 minutes enhance verbal working memory. Multi-component exercise programs are recommended for spatial working memory, while VR-based training yields superior outcomes for verbal working memory.

DOI

https://doi.org/10.18122/ijpah.5.1.220.boisestate

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