High-Intensity Interval Training and its effects on cognitive function in young adults

The Effect of High-Intensity Interval Training Exercise on Cognitive Function of Young Adults: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial

Not applicable Interventional The Hong Kong Polytechnic University · NCT06621550

This study tests if doing High-Intensity Interval Training can improve thinking skills like decision-making and problem-solving in healthy young adults aged 18-40.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment70 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 40 Years
SexAll
SponsorThe Hong Kong Polytechnic University Academic / other
Locations1 site (Hung Hom)
Trial IDNCT06621550 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates how High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) affects executive functions in young healthy adults aged 18-40. Participants will engage in HIIT sessions to assess the immediate and sustained impacts on cognitive performance. The research aims to determine if this form of exercise can enhance mental capabilities, particularly in areas such as decision-making and problem-solving. The study will include assessments to evaluate cognitive function before and after the exercise interventions.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are healthy young adults aged 18-40 without any sensory impairments or conditions that would limit their ability to participate in high-intensity exercise.

Not a fit: Patients with neurological, cardiovascular, or other physical and mental conditions that restrict their ability to safely engage in high-intensity interval training may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide insights into how exercise can improve cognitive function in young adults.

How similar studies have performed: While there is existing research on the effects of exercise on cognitive function, this specific approach using HIIT in young adults is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Young adult aged 18-40 years old
* No visionary defect or other sensory condition including uncorrected refractive defect and color blindness refraining the individual to be assessed by the tasks

Exclusion Criteria:

* With known neurological, cardiovascular, or other physical and mental conditions that limit the ability to safely participate in high-intensity interval training
* With known specific learning disabilities
* Known drug or alcohol abuse problems

Where this trial is running

Hung Hom

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 Young Healthy AdultsExecutive FunctionsHigh Intensity Interval Training
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.