# Exploratory Study: The Impact of Online Coordinative Exercise in a Small Latinx Youth Sample

## TL;DR

This study explores the effects of an online exercise program on ADHD symptoms and cognitive function in a small group of Latinx youth.

## Contribution

The study provides initial insights into the feasibility and impact of an online PA intervention for Latinx youth, a marginalized population.

## Key findings

- There was significant variability in adherence to the online PA intervention during the study.
- A statistically significant improvement in inattention symptoms was observed in the treatment group at mid-treatment.
- Parents of participants who completed the treatment reported high acceptability of the program.

## Abstract

Background/Objectives: The effects of online physical activity (PA) interventions on executive function (EF) and Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) symptoms are promising; nonetheless, their benefits for Latinx youth remain unclear. Methods: This study explores levels of adherence, cognitive and behavioral outcomes and acceptability of an online PA intervention, Zing Performance, among a Latinx youth sample; only a few of the participants completed their condition (n = 6). Results: There was wide variability in adherence levels at mid-treatment (n = 5) and high-level adherence at post-treatment (n = 2). A Mann–Whitney test yielded a statistically significant (p = 0.004) improvement in the treatment group’s inattention symptoms at mid-treatment (n = 5), compared to the Waitlist Control; (WLC; n = 6). EF and hyperactivity/impulsivity were not significantly different. Further, pre-, mid- and post-participant trajectory data revealed that one participant benefited significantly from treatment, one participant demonstrated little to no response to treatment, and most of the WLC participants remained in the severity ranges throughout the 12 weeks. The parents of the two children who completed treatment reported high levels of acceptability informally and on the quantitative measure. Conclusions: Exploratory findings support further investigation of Zing among Latinx families with cultural consideration to study procedures. The lessons learned from this study are valuable for future research procedures and interventions with this marginalized population.