ABSTRACT
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders in recent years. Although heterogeneous in nature, it is primarily characterized by core symptoms of hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention. Several functional impairments typically co-occur such as executive function (EF) difficulties, the ability to effectively plan, organize and carry out goal-orientated behavior. With no single underlying cause or long-term beneficial treatment, an alternative method for improving trajectories is required. For example, current ADHD medication can have negative and long-lasting side effects and if use is terminated, symptoms typically return. Further, despite behavioral symptoms diminishing, functional impairments such as EF can remain. This chapter outlines the research surrounding the promising use of physical activity as a treatment for the disorder, particularly in the aid of EF development. Despite being in its infancy, this growing body of literature demonstrates the behavioral and cognitive improvements as a result of chronic physical activity interventions in children with the disorder. The chapter concludes with recommendations for future research, which should focus on conducting larger, randomized controlled trials with the ability to tease apart the different subtypes of the disorder. It is also necessary to investigate the dose and frequency of physical activity required to sustain improvements in ADHD symptoms over time.
