Does music support executive functions and affective responses during acute exercise? A systematic review and meta-analysis.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Maintaining a steady running pace despite physical or mental fatigue often engages executive functions. These functions may contribute to sustaining exercise participation by regulating cognitive and affective responses to the demands of physical exercise. Research on both music and acute exercise independently shows engagement of executive functions and affective responses, with exercise intensities influencing outcomes. However, the combined effects of music and acute exercise on executive functions and affective outcomes remain underexplored.

Methods

Accordingly, this review examines how music may interact with executive functions and affective responses during acute exercise.

Results

Ten studies met the inclusion criteria, with nine providing data for

SUBMITTER: Danso A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12823824 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature