Physical Activity Boosts Focus in Children with ADHD: Study Reveals

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) significantly impacts children’s ability to concentrate in school, with around 8% of children aged 3-12 years diagnosed globally. A recent study conducted by researchers, including a team from a reputable educational institution, indicates that incorporating physical activity into classroom routines may enhance focus and cognitive performance in children with ADHD.

The research involved 27 children aged 9-11 years, all diagnosed with ADHD. The participants completed two trials. In the first trial, they engaged in a 30-minute exercise circuit that included activities designed to stimulate both physical and cognitive engagement. Activities ranged from playing “Simon Says” to coordination tasks involving bouncing and passing a basketball. The second trial served as a control, where children rested in their seats without engaging in physical activity.

To assess the impact of the exercise, children completed three cognitive tests on a laptop: the Stroop test, which measures impulse control; the Sternberg Paradigm, assessing short-term memory; and a visual search test that evaluates perception. Results demonstrated that children with ADHD performed better on all cognitive tests following the exercise session compared to when they were at rest. Notably, while their accuracy improved, they took slightly longer to complete the tasks.

This finding is significant as it suggests that physical activity can help children with ADHD slow down and achieve more accurate responses, addressing their typical challenges with impulsivity.

Lasting Benefits of Physical Activity

Another noteworthy outcome from the study is that the cognitive benefits of the engaging exercise persisted into the following morning. This suggests that the effects of physical activity can extend beyond the immediate aftermath of the exercise session, supporting both children and teachers throughout the school day. The simplicity and short duration of the activities make them easily implementable by teachers, providing an accessible strategy to aid students with ADHD.

The findings align with existing literature indicating that brief, game-based physical activities yield better cognitive outcomes than longer-duration exercises. Previous reviews have highlighted that exercises combining physical and cognitive components offer more significant benefits for children with ADHD than traditional endurance activities such as running or cycling.

Research indicates that even a single session of 20-45 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise can enhance cognitive functions like inhibitory control and cognitive flexibility, which are often impaired in children with ADHD. Current evidence suggests that just 20 minutes of such exercise is adequate to yield positive cognitive effects.

Challenges and Opportunities Ahead

Despite these promising findings, the physical activity levels of children with ADHD remain concerning. Reports indicate that these children are 21% less likely to meet recommended physical activity guidelines compared to their peers. Barriers such as low motivation, self-efficacy, and difficulty managing emotions in overwhelming environments hinder their engagement in physical activities.

Further research is essential to understand how to encourage children with ADHD to participate in exercise. Fortunately, the variety of activities that can enhance cognitive function—ranging from endurance sports to mixed martial arts—offers numerous avenues for future exploration.

In conclusion, integrating short, engaging physical activities into the classroom may provide a valuable strategy for enhancing focus and cognitive function in children with ADHD, supporting their academic success and overall well-being.