Effects of aerobic exercise on adolescents with ADHD

Effects of Aerobic Exercise Intervention in Adolescents With Attention-deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Not applicable Interventional National Taiwan University Hospital · NCT06129396

This study is testing whether a 30-minute cycling workout can improve brain function and thinking skills in teenagers with ADHD.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment90 (estimated)
Ages13 Years to 17 Years
SexAll
SponsorNational Taiwan University Hospital Academic / other
Locations1 site (Taipei county)
Trial IDNCT06129396 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial investigates how a single session of aerobic exercise affects neurophysiology and executive functions in adolescents diagnosed with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Participants aged 13-17 will perform executive function tasks related to inhibitory control, working memory, and cognitive planning, while their motor cortex excitability will be evaluated using transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) before and after a 30-minute moderate-intensity cycling exercise. The study aims to understand the relationship between exercise, neurophysiological changes, and cognitive performance in this population.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adolescents aged 13-17 diagnosed with ADHD without other neuropsychological disorders.

Not a fit: Patients with other major systematic diseases or those taking neuropsychological medications may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide insights into non-pharmacological interventions that enhance cognitive functions in adolescents with ADHD.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results regarding the effects of exercise on cognitive functions in ADHD, suggesting this approach may be effective.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Diagnosis of ADHD by a board-certified psychiatrist according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-V)
* Adolescents aged between 13-17
* Absence of other neuropsychological disorders including, autism spectrum disorders, mental retardation, psychotic disorders, bipolar disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and neurocognitive disorders
* Right-handed

Exclusion Criteria:

* Presence of other major systematical diseases
* Taking neuropsychological medication within one month, except for medication for ADHD
* With contraindications for non-invasive brain stimulation such as epilepsy, pacemaker or intracranial mental implants
* Color blindness
* Taking part in other studies within one month.

Where this trial is running

Taipei county

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Attention Deficit Hyperactivity DisorderA single bout of aerobic exerciseExecutive functionsNeurophysiology
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.