The role of cognitive-motor integration in optimizing physical and cognitive performance in adolescents
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.29352/mill0224e.44510Keywords:
cognitive training; executive function; aerobic performance; adolescents; VO₂max; dual-task training; HIIT; randomised controlled trialAbstract
introduction: The aim of this study is to evaluate the impact of combining physical and cognitive training (PCT) compared to high-intensity interval training (HIIT) alone on the aerobic capacity and executive functions of school-aged adolescents. It is hypothesised that the addition of a cognitive component will lead to improvements in executive functions and gains in aerobic capacity.
objectif : The specific objective of the study is to determine whether integrating a structured cognitive training programme into a standard HIIT routine produces superior adaptations in both maximal aerobic performance and executive functioning compared to HIIT training alone.
Methods: A randomized controlled study (RCT) was conducted over a duration of eight weeks, enrolling 136 adolescents ranging in age from 15 to 18 years. Participants were randomly assigned to two groups: the CTE group (n = 68) and the HIIT group (n = 68). Both cohorts followed two weekly sessions of a rigorously identical 30-30 HIIT protocol. The EPC group also benefited from two weekly sessions of computerised cognitive training (COGPACK software). Pre- and post-intervention assessments included the Luc-Léger test for maximal aerobic speed (MAS) and neurocognitive batteries measuring attention, processing speed and cognitive flexibility (d2-R, TMT). The data were subjected to mixed ANOVA analysis and mediation models.
Results: A significant improvement in MAS and VO2max was observed in both groups (gains of +9.4% to +11.5%, p < 0.001). Although the Time \times Group interaction for aerobic performance was close to the conventional significance threshold (p = 0.052), subsequent non-parametric analysis revealed a significant difference in favour of the EPC group (p = 0.020), with an additional gain of +0.23 km/h. The EPC group showed greater gains in concentration (p < 0.001, \η²p = 0.103) and cognitive flexibility (p = 0.019, \η²p = 0.040). Mediation analysis revealed that good concentration explained some of the extra gains in VMA (Z = 2.11, p = 0.035).
Conclusions: Combining cognitive components with a standard HIIT protocol significantly optimizes executive functions and, via an indirect mechanism implying better effort control, boosts aerobic performance. the integration of cognitive-physical strategies in educational and sporting environments.
Keywords: cognitive training, physical Performance, Adolescents, VO₂max, VMA.
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