Effect of 6-Week Structured Exercise Program on Attention Span, Behavior and Motor Skills Performance in Children with ADHD; A Randomized Control Trial Study

Purpose: Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by a persistent pattern of impulsivity, inattention and hyperactivity with onset in early childhood and a high rate of persistence into adulthood. Children with ADHD are known to struggle with motor coordination and find it challenging to complete several motor activities at once or in a sequential order. Aim of the study is to assess the effect of structured exercise program on attention span, behavior and motor skills in children with ADHD. Methods: 30 diagnosed subjects of ADHD were randomly allocated in Experimental and Control Group by chit method. The experimental group was given 18 sessions of a structured exercise program which included strengthening exercise, aerobic exercise, fine motor training and attentiveness training in the form of group therapy (thrice a week for 6 weeks) for 45 minutes while the control group received the best practice usual care protocol which included medication and behavioural therapy. Outcome measure were trial making test, 9-peg hole test, single leg triple hop test and repetitive behaviour scale. Results: with in group analysis repeated measure ANOVA was used and independent t-test was used to compare the groups. For all statistical tests, a p-value of ≤0.05 was taken as a significant difference Conclusion: This study primarily highlights the potential benefits of structured exercise program in improving attention span and motor skills in children with ADHD, while behavioral outcomes may require more targeted strategies highlighting the complexity of behavioral management in children with ADHD.