Together we move, together we improve? Investigating the role of social interaction in physical activity to enhance executive functions

Acute physical activity (PA) has a positive effect on executive functions (EFs). However, the influence of social interaction (SoI) during PA has been largely overlooked. Since many PAs occur in a social context, understanding the role of SoI is crucial for designing ecologically valid interventions that maximize EFs benefits. Therefore, this study systematically examines the effects of acute PA and SoI on core EFs. A total of 48 participants ( M = 20.31, SD = 1.53, 50% female) completed a 2×2 within-subjects design with SoI and PA as factors. Using Zwift, participants either cycled or used a gas pedal, alone or in pairs, across four counterbalanced conditions. EFs were assessed post-intervention via the Stroop and Letter Memory Tasks. Two-way repeated-measures ANOVAs revealed a significant negative main effect of SoI on participants’ shifting performance (ƞ 2 p = 0.24). There were no significant interaction effects between SoI and PA on EFs (ƞ 2 ps = 0.01–0.09). No significant effects were found for updating (ƞ 2 ps = 0.01–0.03) or inhibition (ƞ 2 ps = 0.01–0.04). These results indicate that SoI impaired shifting performance. No interaction effect between SoI and acute PA was found, challenging the assumption that their combination enhances cognitive performance. Further research should explore how social dynamics shape the cognitive outcomes of PA. • Social interaction and physical activity did not improve EFs performance • Shifting was impaired by social interaction, while inhibition and updating were unaffected • Findings challenge the assumption that group activities consistently benefit cognition