Effects of physical activity on cognition and well-being in university students

Acute Effects of Physical Activity on Cognition and Well-being in University Students: ActClass4Brain Project

NA · Universitat Jaume I · NCT06168526

This study tests how different types and amounts of exercise can boost brain function and mood in university students aged 18 to 24.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment210 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 24 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversitat Jaume I (other)
Locations1 site (Castelló de la Plana, Castellón)
Trial IDNCT06168526 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates how acute physical activity influences cognitive functions and emotional well-being among university students aged 18 to 24. It aims to determine the optimal type, duration, and intensity of physical activity that can enhance attention and positive emotions while reducing negative feelings. Conducted at Jaume I University in Spain, the research seeks to fill gaps in existing literature by examining these effects in a real-world educational setting rather than a laboratory. The findings could inform strategies to improve brain health and academic performance in young adults.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are healthy university students aged 18 to 24 without psychological or physical conditions that limit their ability to participate.

Not a fit: Patients with diagnosed psychological or cognitive disorders, or physical limitations that restrict their ability to engage in physical activity, may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to effective physical activity interventions that enhance cognitive function and emotional well-being in university students.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown positive effects of physical activity on cognitive and emotional outcomes in young adults, suggesting that this approach has potential for success.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Not to be diagnosed with psychological and/or cognitive alterations or pathologies that may limit the understanding and following of the instructions provided by another person.
* Not to suffer physical alterations that may limit the practice of physical activity.
* To be between 18 and 24 years old.

Exclusion Criteria:

* To be diagnosed with psychological and/or cognitive alterations or pathologies that may limit the understanding and following of the instructions provided by another person.
* To suffer physical alterations that may limit the practice of physical activity.
* Not to be between 18 and 24 years old.

Where this trial is running

Castelló de la Plana, Castellón

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.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Cognitive Change, Well-Being, Psychological, Young adults, Acute physical activity, Attention, Positive affect, Negative affect

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.