Using high-intensity exercise and mindfulness to improve children's thinking skills
Official title: Supporting high-intensity interval training with mindfulness for enhancing childhood executive function
Funded at Purdue University · NIH-11079559 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how mixing fun, short bursts of exercise with mindfulness activities can help kids think better and solve problems, making it a great way for them to stay active while also boosting their brainpower!
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Purdue University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (West Lafayette, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $191,893 |
| NIH project number | 5R21HD110656-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11079559 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0 to 12 years who may benefit from enhanced cognitive skills and physical fitness.
✕Less likely to help
Children with severe physical disabilities or cognitive impairments that prevent participation in physical activities may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how combining high-intensity interval training (HIIT) with mindfulness practices can enhance executive function in children, which is crucial for their reasoning and problem-solving abilities. The program involves short bursts of intense exercise followed by mindful recovery periods, allowing children to engage in self-awareness and self-regulation activities. By integrating physical activity with cognitive challenges, the study aims to maximize the cognitive benefits that children can gain from exercise. The approach is designed to be enjoyable and effective, promoting both physical fitness and mental development.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve children's cognitive abilities, leading to better academic performance and overall development.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in enhancing cognitive function through physical activity, suggesting that this combined approach may also be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
Purdue University
West Lafayette, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kao, Shih-Chun — Purdue University
- Study coordinator: Kao, Shih-Chun
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.