High-intensity interval training yielded a significantly greater reduction in Switching reaction time by 73.6 ms compared to moderate-intensity continuous training 45 minutes post-exercise.
RCT (n=25)
Randomized counterbalanced order
No
Does high-intensity interval training improve executive functions compared to moderate-intensity continuous training in healthy older adults?
A single session of high-intensity interval training provides a greater and more sustained improvement in cognitive flexibility (switching tasks) compared to moderate-intensity continuous training in healthy older adults.
Effect estimate: Mean difference 73.6 ms
Absolute Event Rate: -147.1% vs -91.5%
p-value: p=0.019
Numerous studies have demonstrated that executive functions benefit from high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT). However, the immediate effects of HIIT and MICT on these functions in older adults have not been compared. This study aimed to examine the acute impact of HIIT and MICT on executive function components in this demographic. Twenty-five healthy community-dwelling older adults (15 females; average age 67.1 ± 4.5 years) participated. The study involved three sessions: an initial session with cognitive assessments (Stroop Task: Naming, Inhibition, and Switching) and a maximal continuous graded exercise test, followed by two sessions involving HIIT (15s at 100% peak power output, 15s rest, 2 × 20 min) or MICT (34 min at 60% peak power output) training protocols in random order. Cognitive tests were administered immediately after and 45 min post-training. The results showed a significant difference in Switching reaction times between MICT and HIIT, with HIIT showing a greater reduction in Switching times after 45 min (p = 0.019). In conclusion, our study indicates that HIIT's beneficial effects on executive functions demonstrated a larger effect size than those of MICT. This suggests that brief, high-intensity exercise could be more effective in enhancing executive functions among older adults.
Ahmadi et al. (2025) conducted an RCT in Healthy older adults (n=25). High-intensity interval training (HIIT) vs. Moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT) was evaluated on Switching reaction time 45 minutes post-exercise (Mean difference 73.6 ms, p=0.019). High-intensity interval training yielded a significantly greater reduction in Switching reaction time by 73.6 ms compared to moderate-intensity continuous training 45 minutes post-exercise.