Author(s): Pramod Dalal and Manju Dalal

Abstract:

Introduction: Executive functions (EF) are essential cognitive processes that continue to mature during young adulthood. Recent research suggests that motor-skill-focused physical education (PE) programs may positively influence EF development by engaging both cognitive and motor systems simultaneously.

Methodology: This randomized controlled trial was conducted on 40 healthy young adults aged 20 to 26 years residing in Madhya Pradesh. Participants were randomly assigned to either a motor-skill-focused PE group (n = 20) or a general PE control group (n = 20). Both groups participated in 12-week intervention programs. Executive functions—working memory, inhibitory control, and cognitive flexibility—were assessed pre-and post-intervention using standardized tasks: n-back test, Stroop test, and Trail Making Test (TMT-B), respectively. Statistical analysis was performed using repeated measures ANOVA.

Results: Both groups showed improvements; however, the motor-skill-focused group demonstrated significantly greater improvements across all EF measures. Working memory accuracy improved from 74.2% to 86.5% in the motor-skill group (p<0.001), inhibitory control reaction time improved from 742 ms to 653 ms (p<0.01), and cognitive flexibility (TMT-B) improved from 72.3 sec to 61.1 sec (p<0.01).

Discussion: The superior cognitive gains in the motor-skill-focused group may be attributed to the cognitively engaging nature of the motor tasks, which involved planning, attention shifting, and response inhibition. These findings support the embodied cognition theory, highlighting the role of integrated physical and cognitive training in optimizing executive function development.

Conclusion: Motor-skill-focused PE curricula effectively enhance executive function performance in young adults. Incorporating such programs into physical education and wellness initiatives may provide substantial cognitive and functional benefits during this critical developmental period.

DOI: 10.33545/27077012.2023.v4.i2d.317

Pages: 278-281 | Views: 60 | Downloads: 29

Download Full Article: Click Here