Clinical Research Directory
Browse clinical research sites, groups, and studies.
Motor-Focused Exercise and Brain Development in Preschool Children
Sponsor: Hunan Normal University
Summary
This study will test whether a structured motor-focused exercise program can improve both brain function and gross motor skills in preschool children. About 110 children aged 4 to 6 years will be recruited from kindergartens in Changsha, China. Classes will be randomly assigned to receive either (1) motor-focused physical education three times per week for 16 weeks, or (2) ordinary physical education of the same frequency and duration. The motor-focused program includes playful, game-based activities designed to strengthen locomotor skills (such as running and hopping) and object-control skills (such as throwing and catching). The main outcome will be changes in children's gross motor skills, measured with a standardized motor test (TGMD-3). Brain activity will also be assessed using portable electroencephalography (EEG) during rest and simple tasks related to attention and memory. Parents and teachers will complete short questionnaires about children's behavior and executive function. The results of this study may provide new insights into how physical education influences both movement skills and brain development in early childhood.
Official title: Effects of Motor-Focused Exercise Training on Brain Function and Gross Motor Skills in Preschool Children
Key Details
Gender
All
Age Range
4 Years - 6 Years
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
110
Start Date
2026-03-01
Completion Date
2026-07-01
Last Updated
2025-12-29
Healthy Volunteers
Yes
Interventions
Motor-Focused Physical Education
Children will receive structured, motor-focused physical education sessions (30-40 minutes, 3 times per week, for 16 weeks), emphasizing locomotor and object-control skills through playful, game-based activities.
Ordinary Physical Education
Children will continue with their regular kindergarten physical education curriculum (30-40 minutes, 3 times per week, for 16 weeks), focusing on rhythmic movement, free play, and group games.