An interventional study of Multi-Component Training and Motor Learning Techniques in Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, sponsored by Riphah International University. Not yet recruiting at 1 site in Pakistan. Open to participants aged 18 Years to 30 Years. Per ClinicalTrials.gov, last updated 2026-09-29.
Sponsored by Riphah International University · Not applicable, Interventional, and Treatment
This randomized clinical trial aims to compare the effects of multi-component training and motor learning techniques on attention, cognitive performance, and motor coordination in adults with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). ADHD in adults is associated with impairments in executive function, attention regulation, and motor coordination, which significantly impact daily functioning and quality of life. While pharmacological and behavioral therapies are commonly used, non-pharmacological interventions such as structured exercise and motor learning approaches have shown potential benefits.
A total of 44 participants aged 18-30 years with clinically diagnosed ADHD will be recruited and randomly allocated into two groups. Group A will receive multi-component training including aerobic, resistance, balance, and flexibility exercises, while Group B will receive motor learning techniques focusing on task-oriented and cognitive-motor dual-task training. Both interventions will be administered three times per week for eight weeks.
Outcome measures will include standardized tools assessing attention, executive function, and cognitive performance, including ADHD rating scales and cognitive assessments. Data will be analyzed pre- and post-intervention to determine within-group and between-group differences. This study aims to identify effective, non-pharmacological rehabilitation strategies for improving cognitive and motor outcomes in adults with ADHD.
Background and Rationale
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, persisting into adulthood in a significant proportion of individuals. Adults with ADHD commonly experience deficits in executive function, attention, working memory, and motor coordination, leading to reduced occupational performance, impaired social relationships, and decreased quality of life.
Although pharmacological treatments such as stimulant medications are widely used, they may not be suitable for all individuals due to side effects, contraindications, or limited long-term effectiveness. Therefore, there is increasing interest in non-pharmacological interventions such as structured physical exercise and motor learning techniques, which may enhance neuroplasticity and improve cognitive and motor outcomes.
Multi-component training integrates aerobic, resistance, balance, and flexibility exercises and has been associated with improvements in executive function, attention, and emotional regulation. Motor learning techniques focus on task-oriented training, repetition, feedback, and cognitive-motor integration to improve coordination and functional performance. However, limited research has directly compared these two approaches in adults with ADHD.
Objective
To compare the effects of multi-component training and motor learning techniques on attention, cognitive performance, and motor coordination in adults with ADHD.
Study Design
This study will be a single-blind, randomized clinical trial.
Participants
A total of 44 participants aged 18-30 years with clinically diagnosed ADHD will be recruited using non-probability convenience sampling. Participants must meet inclusion criteria including confirmed ADHD diagnosis and ability to participate in moderate physical activity.
Randomization and Blinding
Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups using a computer-generated randomization method. Allocation will be concealed using sealed opaque envelopes. The outcome assessor will remain blinded to group allocation.
Interventions
Group A: Multi-Component Training
Participants will undergo a structured exercise program including:
Aerobic training (moderate intensity) Resistance training using light weights or bands Balance and flexibility exercises Sessions will be conducted three times per week for 8 weeks.
Group B: Motor Learning Techniques
Participants will receive:
Task-oriented motor training Cognitive-motor dual-task activities Feedback-based motor learning strategies Sessions will be conducted three times per week for 8 weeks. Outcome Measures
Primary and secondary outcomes will be assessed at baseline and post-intervention using standardized tools:
Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS) Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) Conners' Adult ADHD Rating Scales (CAARS) Stroop Color and Word Test Trail Making Test (Parts A and B) Digit Span Test Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function (BRIEF-A) Data Analysis
Data will be analyzed using SPSS version 27. Descriptive statistics will summarize participant characteristics. Normality will be assessed using the Shapiro-Wilk test.
Within-group comparisons: Paired t-test or Wilcoxon signed-rank test Between-group comparisons: Independent t-test or Mann-Whitney U test Statistical significance set at p \< 0.05 Expected Outcome
This study is expected to determine whether multi-component training or motor learning techniques are more effective in improving attention, cognitive performance, and motor coordination in adults with ADHD. Findings may contribute to evidence-based, non-pharmacological rehabilitation strategies for ADHD management.
Exclusion Criteria:
Participants in this group will receive multi-component training including warm-up, aerobic training, resistance training, balance and flexibility exercises, breathing exercises, and cool-down. Sessions will be conducted three times per week for 8 weeks, with each session lasting approximately 30-40 minutes.
Behavioral: Multi-Component Training
Participants in this group will receive motor learning techniques including warm-up, task-oriented training, cognitive-motor dual-task activities, feedback-based learning, and cool-down. Sessions will be conducted three times per week for 8 weeks, with each session lasting approximately 30-40 minutes.
Behavioral: Motor Learning Techniques
Multi-component training will include warm-up, moderate-intensity aerobic exercise, resistance training using light weights or resistance bands, balance and flexibility exercises, breathing exercises, and cool-down. Sessions will be supervised three times per week for 8 weeks, with each session lasting approximately 30-40 minutes.
Also known as: Exercise Training, Multicomponent Exercise Program
Motor learning techniques will include warm-up, task-oriented functional motor activities, cognitive-motor dual-task exercises, feedback-based learning, and cool-down. Sessions will be supervised three times per week for 8 weeks, with each session lasting approximately 30-40 minutes.
Also known as: Task-Oriented Training, Cognitive-Motor Dual-Task Training
Conners' Adult ADHD Rating Scale
Adult ADHD symptom severity will be assessed using the Conners' Adult ADHD Rating Scales (CAARS).
Time frame: 8 weeks of treatment (Pre & Post)
Purdue Pegboard Test
Dominant-hand motor coordination and manual dexterity will be assessed using the Purdue Pegboard Test.
Time frame: Baseline and immediately after completion of the 8-week intervention
Trial Making Test
Performance was assessed by noting the overall completion time for each segment in seconds
Time frame: 8 weeks of intervention (Pre & Post)
Plan to share: No
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Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity→
Riphah International University