Immediate and sustained effects of intermittent exercise on inhibitory control and task-related heart rate variability in adolescents.

Objectives: To examine the immediate and sustained effects of intermittent exercise sessions at different intensities on inhibitory control and task-related heart rate variability (HRV) in adolescents.

Design: Using cluster-randomization, participants from six classes (n=94) were allocated to groups performing 20min of intermittent exercise at moderate (MIE) or high intensity (HIE) and a control group (CON).

Methods: Using a computer-based Flanker task, inhibitory control was assessed in a classroom setting prior to and following exercise as well as 30 and 60min after exercise cessation.