Is Physical Exercise Beneficial in Treating ADHD?

For Related material, see my books, Taking Charge of ADHD and Taking Charge of Adult ADHD.
In this brief video I discuss the findings from various reviews and meta-analyses of the literature on this topic dating back to 2015. With each passing year, more research was being done on this question, especially concerning children and adolescents with ADHD. Little if any research had been done back then with adults. The conclusion of these reviews is that routine, physical aerobic exercise (cardio) is of benefit to children and teens with ADHD in improving their executive functioning, inattention, and motor skills. There is inconsistent benefits for comorbid anxiety and depression and even less evidence for improved social functioning. Weaker results were found for non-cardio than cardio exercises.
There are only a few studies of the effects of physical exercise on adults with ADHD. Two studies are discussed here and both employed an acute episode of high intensity exercise. Both found post-exercise benefits on cognitive measures of attention but only in the group having ADHD. The non-ADHD groups did not show any such improvements. Clearly much more research is needed on the effect of physical exercise on adults with ADHD but results to date are promising.
Research reviewed in the video:
Christina Neudecker et al. (2015). Exercise Interventions in Children and Adolescents With ADHD: A Systematic Review. Journal of Attention Disorders, 23(4). doi.org/10.1177/1087054715584053
Ruta Vysniauske et al. (2016). The Effects of Physical Exercise on Functional Outcomes in the Treatment of ADHD: A Meta-Analysis. Journal of Attention Disorders, 24(5). doi.org/10.1177/1087054715627489
Anne E. Den Heijer et al. (2016), Sweat it out? The effects of physical exercise on cognition and behavior in children and adults with ADHD: a systematic literature review. Journal of Neural Transmission, 124, 3-26. link.springer.com/article/10....
Qin Xiang Ng et al. (2017). Managing childhood and adolescent attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) with exercise: A systematic review. Complementary Therapies in Medicine, 34, 123-128. doi.org/10.1016/j.ctim.2017.0...
Zang, Y. (2019). Impact of physical exercise on children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorders: Evidence through a meta-analysis. Medicine (Baltimore), 98(46), e17980. doi: 10.1097/MD.0000000000017980
Wenxin Sun et al. (2022). Effects of physical exercise on attention deficit and other major symptoms in children with ADHD: A meta-analysis. Psychiatry Research, 311. doi.org/10.1016/j.psychres.20...
Livia Welsch et al. (2021). The effect of physical activity interventions on executive functions in children with ADHD: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Mental Health and Physical Activity, 20. doi.org/10.1016/j.mhpa.2020.1...
Felipe Montalva-Valenzuela et al. (2022). Effects of Physical Activity, Exercise and Sport on Executive Function in Young People with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: A Systematic Review. Investigations in Health, Psychology and Education, 12(1), 61-76. doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe12010006
Huan Huang et al. (2023). Chronic Exercise for Core Symptoms and Executive Functions in ADHD: A Meta-analysis. Pediatrics, 151(1). doi.org/10.1542/peds.2022-057745
Dastamooz, S. et al. (2023). The efficacy of physical exercise interventions on mental health, cognitive function, and ADHD symptoms in children and adolescents with ADHD: an umbrella review. eClinical Medicine (Lancet). doi.org/10.1016/j.eclinm.2023...
Aylin Mehren et al. (2022). Acute Effects of Aerobic Exercise on Executive Function and Attention in Adult Patients With ADHD. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 10. doi.org/10.3389/fpsyt.2019.00132
Patrick A. LaCount et al. (2022). Acute effects of physical exercise on cognitive and psychological functioning in college students with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Mental Health and Physical Activity, 22. doi.org/10.1016/j.mhpa.2022.1...

[@ScoutyAtty]

Regular strenuous exercise has been an absolute life saver for me. In addition to acting as an incredibly effective release valve for all the pent up tension and anxiety, the focus required to do the exercise acts as “forced meditation” (silencing the many thoughts and negative self-talk). These amazing benefits have made a healthy lifestyle a necessity. I hope everyone is successful in finding healthy ways to release their energy/depression/anxiety/etc so your efforts provide the rewards that you deserve.

[@amonbonyora89]

when you say strenuous exercise, do you mean cardio or strength training

[@themobbit9061]

I agree with you completely. Especially that part that’s stops negative rumination for me and calms the nervous system. I encourage my ADHD and all clients to exercise mindfully. It puts us in our bodies which seems to helps also anxiety, depression, PTSD.

[@ScoutyAtty]

@@amonbonyora89- I’ve found that both can provide extremely positive neurological benefits. The more the exercise requires focus and attention, the more effective the “forced meditation”.

[@SMC01ful]

Yes, I think one thing to be wary of with ADHD, is over exercising. While I find exercise great, I have to be careful I am not burning a candle at both ends. Moreover, we may be more prone to push limits or use bad form if lifting heavy, which may cause injury. Everyone is different, but I find lifting lighter weights with high reps, minimizes the risks. Some folks might like lifiting heavier.

[@non-newtoniandruid]

I did this with running, ran myself into injury, and so I took up lifting and then I promptly did the same thing!

[@tpjttu04]

I agree! I had so much energy that I would work out multiple times a day. If I was bored with nothing to do for one second, I would workout. Now at 47 I have bad knees!!

[@laisa.]

​​@@non-newtoniandruid me too! Exactly those! Have you found another go to?

[@GabrielBacon]

I have adult adhd, untreated, and you’ve helped me find the tools & strategies to improve my life over the past 5+ years. Exercise, specifically long mild cardio, is the most effective & most noticeable improvement. I can feel the difference in executive function when I haven’t exercised in the last few days. It feels similar to losing sleep a few nights in a row.

Your work is essential these days, doc! You are able to summarize scientific evidence in an easy language for the general public! Thank you so much!❤

[@jonathancaldwell517]

I would love to see something more on adults. I highly expect ADHD improvement will correlate with exercising, though from my personal experience I also suspect it may not be direct. In my case I was diagnosed late and some of the other things that I suspect my ADHD created and that later aggravated the ADHD were substantially improved. In short, ADHD may cause and then suffer from things like depression and anxiety. Exercise may either or both improve ADHD directly or thorough such side mechanisms. For me, regular Exercise = less anxiety = better management of ADHD. If there is any benefit directly, I wouldn't deny it, I just can't observe it.

[@Thesktre9]

Exercise is crucial for me, otherwise I fall apart emotionally.

[@adrianafacina9407]

Me either

[@JC-Alan]

I second this.

[@whyamiwastingmytimeonthis]

This, so much!!! I dismissed exercise thinking it wouldn’t have much impact besides just “being fit”, and boy I was so wrong!

[@veilmontTV]

I do feel like I have better executive function since I've been running regularly and the physical benefits are awesome too. I'm so light on my feet

[@alexandremorissette4285]

It's like you read my mind. I was thinking about this subject today 🎉. My psychologist told me the exercise is my medication. It's great to hear about the evidence to reinforce my motivation to maintain taking "medicine"

[@user-bd4bo4tb8u]

Yes! I haven’t exercised in a few months and I can tell mentally and physically. I’m 53 and am trying to get my family to understand that exercise is a requirement for me. This is about my ability to function in life. And it makes me a nicer person, lol….

[@jonr6680]

​@@user-bd4bo4tb8uyour family? THEY should be doing it too, right?

[@alexandremorissette4285]

@@user-bd4bo4tb8u 1000%. I also have been weightlifting for a long time. My biggest challenge is consistency. Recently following some injuries I've been limited to physio and it really messed me up. I'm trying a 3 month unlimited sessions at a Yoga studio. It's actually quite nice and working while I'm not getting injured. Not only is there many variations of hot yoga from begginer to basically calisthenics workouts, there's a cool ambience that is gentle on the senses: tea, incense, warm lighting, good showers. Also the studio has a "circuit" where you show up 15 min early to get ready and have a nice warm tea before it starts. At the end of the workout they put a nice warm towel with gentle fragrances with you calm down. Overall, I still do weights but wow that hot yoga routine is pretty good!

[@dustystarr2297]

@@user-bd4bo4tb8u If you don't mind me asking are you on med's? I'm 55 and being on med's is the only way I can stay consistent with my exercise routine.

[@bomcimtube]

3M: Medication, Movement (exercise) and Mindfullness

[@acoisiglis]

I remember the first time I figured out exercise could make me focus better. I had exhausted myself playing basketball in school during lunch break, and the next class I sat down, picked up a pen, and filled the answer sheet without fidgeting or feeling tortured. I was doing the work like a good boy!

[@LisLara]

A simple 10 minutes walk does wonders❤

[@jasonmcbride88]

Especially after a meal!

[@s.m.4948]

True, but that's not "high intensity" exercise.

[@thephilosopher3586]

30 minute of walk in the nature makes magic.

[@serajmehrabkhani7333]

Whenever a question comes to my mind about ADHD, Dr. barkley makes a video about it. Exactly what happened here.

[@MysteryGrey]

I'm 57 year old child. My body told me I need to exercise. If you listen (hyperfocus), your body will talk to you. I do feel better with exercise. I got a dog so I'd get over my "thing" about going out exposed in public...it worked really well, and now I'm bonded with one of God's creatures with unconditional love, I needed that! I don't stop moving throughout the day, busy with survival stuff. I take breaks from that and walk my dog at the park, hopefully by ourselves, free, breathing fresh air, taking in the beauty of nature. And I do PT stretches for my messed up back, they help and make me feel better, as well. I hope to begin yoga somehow, I hope I get motivated enough to do it. Thank you, Russ!

[@WorldOfEmm]

Exercise makes me feel like a completely different human being but I tend to forget about how great I feel after a session... thank you for the important reminder, your work means so much!!

[@sammckenzie6760]

Ive almost exclusively done barbell strength training and have found that hard squats in particular lead to more productive days with less mental struggle. The stronger I've gotten, the greater the effect seems

[@jonr6680]

Another top prescient theme, interesting findings. If you own a dog and didn't take it for walks you'd be considered cruel. And yet utter sedentary aka slobs are free to live the way they 'want', hurrah for freedom! /s. Regarding kids, this is down to the parents... And not just discipline but exemplary lifestyle. And so class, education, so forth. So ultimately is a societal issue. Living in housing and neighborhoods where going out might get you killed, survival tells you to stay home. But more likely folks are just lazy. Exercise, meh! Not ironically organising yourself and family to have a fitness centred lifestyle actually takes massive effort - which many might consider low priority after work, keeping house, feeding everyone etc... and then as noted in these comments, the kids are resistant!! On top of your own exhausted reluctance... Then the kids become teens and would rather be dead than emulate the parents... So any example you set is rejected and resented. This is far beyond ADHD but illustrates how patterns of behavior are transmitted from generation to generation. Along with mindsets and dysfunction, guilt and regret. Wow that escalated quickly!

[@fpr_]

Thank you for always consider “adults with ADHD” in your videos!

[@cammerations]

Oh no Russ you mean to tell me I have to start exercise now T-T

[@jonr6680]

Not Dr B but a random stranger. Get off your A$$! Because if you don't, ADHD will be the least of your worries. My fingers are tired, just look it up yourself. ALL the upvotes here, want to die aged 45 with a heart attack after living in perpetual discomfort and depression? Sit on the couch with your gaming headset and pizza boxes, go right ahead. The ability to control your own destiny starts and ends with fitness. Achieve control and it will serve as a launchpad for other life goals. If you can't (be bothered to) get a grip on this, nobody can do it for you. It's literally the only thing you can't outsource, delegate, or get a gadget for. Even AI can't do your fitness for you!! Rant over.

[@mehranhassan3297]

I do one uphill sprint in nature everyday followed by a semi strenuous walk and 2 days a week in the gym. This routine with a super strict diet fixes about 70-80% of my emotional symptoms.

[@david.petrey]

Exercise without a doubt gives me a very noticeable reduction in ADHD symptoms. I've seen similar results with both cardio and weight lifting. Benefits seems to last for 1 - 2 days after the exercise. I know what to do... but unfortunately we know how that story ends. However, I won't give up.

[@Simon-L-B]

I wish I could exercise. I have CFS/ME and housebound. Struggle to even watch tv sometimes but my mind never stops racing, emotional regulation all over the place etc.

[@jrr2045]

I am not supposed that exercise is helpful. But I am a bit surprised that cardio seems to be so much more effective. I do mostly weight lifting 4x times pr week plus short 15 min. Body weight sessions 2x week. I also walk (slowly with my tiny dog) pretty much every day. I notice that the days where I do my hardest, heaviest lifting sessions, I feel the best. I notice the most benefit in the emotional department. IF I have an ADHD emotional melt down, it is never ever on a heavy lifting day! Too bad I can't lift heavy every day!

[@jonr6680]

You can, splits.

[@jasonmcbride88]

Do you work out at home? That was the key for me, finally have a proper garage setup after many years of hating the gyms that I had access to.

[@laizerwoolf]

@@jasonmcbride88 This is so true, I do exercise more regularly after buying my own equipment. The commute and the anxiety that comes with a public gym are enough to deter some of the gym days.

[@russellbarkleyphd2023]

See my reply above. I think intensity may matter. But the studies don’t look at that as of now. Maybe new studies will.

[@paulorlandfletcher]

Never needed a study to prove the effects of exercise. Exercise and good sleep are key.

[@stmcm]

Always a treat to watch you well made and highly competent Videos. Thanks for this one as well!

[@heehoss]

Thank you for another great summary! You provide so much insight.

[@sussusamogus7831]

Thank you for your work Doctor Barkley!

[@Mightydoggo]

Yeah since I got my dog, the regular walks do absolute wonders for me. You wouldn´t think so based on him doing carpet cosplay for most of the day, but 2-3h is like a walk around the block for this big guy. The only downside is how often you run into stupid people trying to tell you how to handle your dog, while their own is running off into the wild unleashed, hunting whatever it found.

[@whyamiwastingmytimeonthis]

Please give your doggo a belly rub from me

[@jonathanberry9502]

🎯 Key Takeaways for quick navigation: 00:12 📚 *Overview of the Importance of Exercise for ADHD * - The video introduces the topic of whether exercise benefits individuals with ADHD. - Highlighting the importance of revisiting literature on the topic to provide clarity and evidence-based recommendations. - Recognizing personal experience and recommendations based on previous talks. 01:07 📊 *Initial Systematic Review from 2015 on Exercise and ADHD * - A systematic review from 2015 found varied results when analyzing multiple studies on the effects of exercise on ADHD. - While large differences across studies existed, there were promising trends showing improvement in ADHD symptoms and executive functioning through physical exercise. - The review set a foundation for subsequent research and indicated potential benefits of exercise for ADHD. 02:02 🏃‍♂️ *Effects of Exercise Duration and Type on ADHD * - A meta-analysis from 2016 emphasized the significance of exercise duration and consistency in producing beneficial effects for ADHD. - Physical activity, especially cardio exercises, showed significant positive effects on motor skills and executive functioning. - The study indicated that the frequency and consistency of exercise had a direct correlation with the degree of improvement in ADHD symptoms. 03:12 ❤️ *Cardio vs. Non-Cardio Exercise Effects on Executive Functioning* - A 2016 review differentiated between cardio and non-cardio exercises, with cardio exercises showing acute beneficial effects on executive functioning. - Chronic cardio exercises demonstrated positive outcomes on various functional areas like attention, behavior, and executive functioning. - While non-cardio exercises had some positive effects, cardio exercises appeared more effective in enhancing cognitive and behavioral aspects. 04:21 🧠 *Consensus and Trends in Recent Years on Exercise Benefits for ADHD in Children and Teens * - Reviews spanning from 2017 to 2023 consistently highlight the clinical benefits of physical activity for children and teens with ADHD. - Physical activity, especially consistent and aerobic exercises, showed improvements in executive functioning, attention, and motor skills. - Mixed exercise routines were seen as more beneficial than repetitive ones, indicating the importance of varied physical activities for better outcomes. 12:35 🧑‍🎓 *Limited Studies on Exercise Benefits for Adult ADHD * - Limited research exists on the effects of exercise on adults with ADHD, with most studies focusing on acute exercise benefits. - Preliminary studies in 2023 suggest that acute exercise can improve cognitive functions like reaction times in adults with ADHD. - High-intensity exercises appear to benefit adults with ADHD more than those without, indicating potential areas for further research and exploration. Made with HARPA AI

[@takiyaazrin7562]

Great analysis!

[@Osvath97]

I have found that weight training helps immensely, IF it passes a certain limit of intensity. So I wonder if that is a problem those studies have.

[@laizerwoolf]

I have also been starting weightlifting weekly. Do you sometimes find yourself extending the rest time over intense reps? sometimes my workout extends to 3 hours, but most of the time is spent on extended rest time and overthinking the discomfort I felt.

[@russellbarkleyphd2023]

Yes, I think so. As someone who weight trains twice weekly, intensity and reps matter. But they didn’t look at that in these studies. Be well.

[@mahmoudchibani2697]

thank you Dr barkley

[@nooneinparticular9868]

Let me say how much I appreciate your content.

[@jonathanberry1111]

🎯 Key Takeaways for quick navigation: 00:12 🧠 *Benefits of Physical Exercise for ADHD* - Physical exercise may be beneficial for individuals with ADHD. - Early reviews from 2015 and 2016 showed promising trends in improving ADHD symptoms and executive functioning. 02:02 🏃‍♂️ *Cardio vs. Non-Cardio Exercise* - Cardio exercise appears to have more acute and chronic benefits on executive functioning, impulsivity, and reaction time compared to non-cardio exercise. - Acute and chronic cardio exercise show positive effects on ADHD symptoms and cognitive function. 04:21 🧒 *Benefits for Children and Teens* - Research suggests that routine physical exercise of moderate to intense aerobic or cardio activity can benefit children and teens with ADHD. - Positive effects on cognitive, behavioral, and physical symptoms of ADHD have been observed. 06:56 😊 *Effects on Anxiety and Depression* - Some studies show benefits in reducing anxiety and depression symptoms through physical activity in individuals with ADHD. - Modest improvements in hyperactivity, impulsivity, and attention symptoms have been reported. 09:00 🏋️‍♀️ *Frequency and Duration of Exercise* - Consistent and frequent physical exercise, especially cardio activities, tend to produce better results in improving ADHD symptoms and executive functioning. - The duration and frequency of exercise sessions play a role in the degree of improvement. 11:12 👩‍👦‍👦 *Limited Research on Adults with ADHD* - Existing research primarily focuses on children and teens, with limited studies on adults with ADHD. - Initial studies on adults suggest that acute exercise may improve attention and cognitive functioning in individuals with ADHD. 15:58 🧐 *Summary of Findings* - Physical exercise shows consistent benefits for children and teens with ADHD, particularly in executive functioning and attention. - Limited research on adults indicates potential positive effects on attention and cognitive function but requires further exploration. Made with HARPA AI

[@AnnieandCC]

My 10 year old son with pronounced impulsivity, irritability greatly benefitted from our participation in summer swim team. When the season ended, we struggled with a sudden increase in the symptoms that greatly decreased during the season. He is on stimulant medication now and was then.

[@dustystarr2297]

Before I started my meds I would exercise for a few months and not be able to keep it up. It was a constant struggle. Since I've been on meds (5 years) I've been constant with my exercise routine without it really being a struggle at all. I find that exercise is most helpful for my anxiety and depression. Not for my executive function.

[@tpjttu04]

I have adhd. As a young adult I didn’t want to take medication. I have always worked out. When I was younger I taught 25-30 fitness classes a week! I bounced off the walls! It didn’t help my adhd. All it did was give me more energy to be impulsive and random! I still dropped out of college several times.

[@mariafranciscaespinozaaran7077]

Mr.Barkley lo quiero mucho 💚 Thank you, thank you, thank you!

[@cristinaherminiasoldevilla2445]

Thats why functional training is so appealing to me 😮 Different exercises, working out a lot of muscles at the same time and cardio along

[@SnoozeAddict]

Thank you for this!

[@HollyMacLe0d]

This is super helpful thank you! I noted the part where repetitive exercise seemed to offer more benefit than that demanding cognitive effort or wider range of movement…. Am i correct in interpreting that to mean say cycling or treadmill vs squash or football.? If so, i wonder of any researchers have speculated as to the mechanism (blood flow?) and if any comparison has been done to control for indoor vs outdoor and whether it’s the repetitiveness that is the driving factor as much as the excercise itself as in it trains your brain to be ok with lack of stimulation? Ie if you just played with a yoyo would it have much effect in comparison?

[@Kirnotsarg]

Hello Doctor, I have been watching your videos recently, and got diagnosed last week. I am a 38 yo single man from India. I started exercising a year ago because my brother and his wife prompted me saying that I have gained weight noticeably. Surprisingly, I managed to keep the habit for over a year. Learning about ADHD also explained my choice of exercise - Yoga and Jump rope on alternate days. I have always hated running for exercise as I found it boring, and had no motivation for it. Instead, I chose Jump Rope because there are many tricks to learn with it, which keeps the motivation for me. I can hike up and down a mountain for hours, but cannot run on level ground for 15 minutes. As you may know, Yoga has a wide variety of Asanas at different levels of difficulty, which keeps my interest. Can you please explain which types of exercises are suitable and unsuitable for ADHD? Besides, what can be done to make mundane exercises interesting enough for ADHD? Another video on Exercise for ADHD would be welcome.

[@nraynaud]

Do you have a more detailed thought on ADHD and sports? In my case, I don't deny that some symptoms were alleviated, but I was doing too much of it, couldn't do anything earlier in the day (because going running was on my mind) or after running (very long time to relax and get productive), so I don't feel like the main issue of "executing work" was helped. Of course, everybody around told me that I should run less, but that's misunderstanding ADHD to ask me to be a moderate person having very steady habits consisting in many tasks on the same day. Other things like hyperactivity were reduced.

[@dark_fire_ice]

Exercise is very beneficial for me, though I'm not one to purposely "workout" but in my daily life I'm extremely busy (my Oura ring says I always surpass my exercise needs.) Unfortunately, when I enter a deep depressed mood, even my day to day, is a physical struggle (not so much mental or emotional as I have schizoid personality disorder)

[@ethercept]

Without a doubt it is a great benefit; first thing in the morning.

[@user-bd4bo4tb8u]

Thank you! My brain does not wake up until I exercise, especially if I feel down or have negative things going on. I’m 53 and now find using heavy weights the most beneficial. Anyway, do you think that any activity that improves a persons health and/or sense of well-being would indirectly help ADHD symptoms? Also, I have a question regarding college students, exercise, and stimulants. My son has all ADHD symptoms and struggles in every way. He is in college on a running scholarship. (Cross country) His personality is pretty intense emotionally. (He’s easily angered, impatient, etc., and that’s another issue…) I feel like his symptoms would benefit from medication, but I worry that the intensity of his anger and the intensity of his running training might be a bad combination. (I have ADHD and take a stimulant, so I understand how it improves athletic performance. It makes me push harder and tolerate more, but I’m not 20 and know I’m not invincible. I can see how a young competitive runner would be tempted to abuse the drug and that terrifies me. If you have time for any thoughts or opinions, thank you in advance!

[@btudrus]

what is your diet?

[@james_subosits]

Are you certain that stimulants are the right way to go? The non-stimulants have a much lower risk of abuse

[@joegibes]

Stimulants for ADHD treatment are one of the most effective interventions out there! Definitely recommend talking to a psychiatrist with your son, and listen to the experts like Dr. Barkley (not KZbin comments haha).

[@btudrus]

@@joegibes "Stimulants for ADHD treatment are one of the most effective interventions out there" Stimulants are good for making you addicted which only makes ADHD worse. Fasting, excercise and a proper diet in the feeding times (meat, animal fat) is the way to go....

[@sfstucco]

@user-bd4bo4tb8u -- Obviously I am no substitute for Dr. Barkley or any other psychiatrist or specialist in this field. But I imagine that, instead of imagining the possibilities of how your son will react if put on medication, a psychiatrist or PCP will: - first, proceed with interviews and testing to determine if he has ADHD; then, - work with your son on a strategy with medicating him. My main point is that it wouldn't (or should not) be a "here's the med Rx, see ya later" situation. It should be a process of testing, observing, increasing dose, observing, and deciding if there is enough benefit -- and whether to try something different. If negative effects appear, then that will be discussed, and a joint conclusion should occur via considering whether any benefits are worth continuing on the med or whether he should switch to another med or class of med. I think fear of the process should not prevent you/him from pursuing this. As someone else mentioned, there are non-stimulant types too, so there are options. I'm sure there's the possibility of a concern for whether trying a medication might disrupt performance in school and running/competition. But if that's so, perhaps there are solutions such as doing this during school break (summer or winter). Good luck. :)

[@weaviejeebies]

I feel far less labile in general, and it certainly keeps my dopa-train chugging along. This might be only a me-thing, but there is a huge difference in the quality of benefits related to the manner of exercise. Long duration, strength focused, slower and longer paced workouts (1 hr on a higher setting elliptical) do so much better than high intensity, shorter things like .5 hr crossfit or an intense pace at regular setting the machines. Actually the older I get, the more I realize that anything pertaining to motion with me involves adjusting pace. These days, I try to think 'locomotive, not Lamborghini'.

[@brendanlee1655]

Russell, I struggle to continue to exercise consistently but i think this may kick me into doing it. have you found in your research when timing of the exercise was? curious if it is better in AM vs PM

[@josephtuttle6643]

Same here. I've found that in order for me to buy in to anything, whether it's a habit change or a technology upgrade, I have to fully understand the 'why' behind it. And I'm finally starting to connect the dots with ADHD and procrastination. If there are two many question marks surrounding something, or just too many steps involved, I'll just throw my hands up and put it off to the side. If this helps, in the past when I have struggled to stick to an exercise schedule, I will just make it a point to get the time in, somewhere within the 24 hour period. And as long as I get it done consistently, the habit will eventually just settle into a time on its own. If I try to force a specific time every day, and say I miss the time because something came up, I just won't do it at all. I hear mornings are better because nights can cause insomnia, but if I'm stuck doing it at night, I'll just do it anyway, consequences be damned, because 'not the ideal time' is still better than not at all. But yeah, this is a hard one that I continue to struggle with.

[@russellbarkleyphd2023]

I didn’t see anything in the studies on timing, just that cardio was better than nOn-cardio. Be well

[@user-hc2cz6uu3x]

​@@josephtuttle6643I find that the mood can strike at any time, so I just go for it. I'll sleep badly anyway, so evenings aren't an issue! Personally I found low aerobic impact sruff during the day to perk me up (and get my steps in), and higher impact running/weights in the evenings, work best for me. And still doing low impact stuff on rest days (unless I actively choose not to - my comment above refers) to remind myself that I enjoy how it makes me feel and how it makes my brain smoother. If it ever feels like a chore, I can't do it.

[@user-xv5gq7ne3e]

You may like to watch Dr Huberman on KZbin. He talks about no screen time first thing and getting out in the sun for vitamin D. I appreciate many have kids and can’t do that, but I find a 45-60 minute walk before I do anything else, makes life more acceptable 😊

[@jorgenlitzing9809]

thanks

[@diannaannette6956]

So playing outside unstructured isnt enough. They also need an exercise program as well?

[@Nick-o-time]

Yes.

[@lilcompletlyaveragepatpat1497]

What about this with accomidations in college. Forgetting and it leading to worry and failure.

[@LeandroBordakevich]

Mind feels so much lighter after a 10km run 💞

[@laisa.]

I used to do those too but after a decade my knees started to protest. Then I started lifting and did somethjng to hurt my shoulder. Ah, the fun of middleage. And, menopause. All mixed wth adhd, yay.

[@soulblade9142]

is there much on exercise for CDS?

[@canyousaybobby]

Decided to watch this video instead of doing my morning workout..

[@jasonkelley4057]

Doc. I feel better after exercise, no doubt. But where I fall short is in the motivation to exercise. I have always struggled with this, not sure what to do. Thanks. 😢

[@user-hc2cz6uu3x]

Find something you like doing, amd then find ways to make it as easy as possible to do it when the mood takes you rather than at a set time. I bought a treadmill, and found that this is was the exercise I'd been missing throughout my life. It's near my homeworking desk, both my walking shoes and my running kit live next to it. So I can do a quick power walk between meetings, or log off and go for a run at the end of the day without thinking about dressing for the weather etc, going into another room to change etc. Stick on a podcast, and away I go. Also: my goal is merely "better than now". Setting targets is - to me - setting myself up for failure. Each day is a choice for *that day*, it's not one of a never ending series of days stretching out ahead as that triggers my ADHD resistance. I'm committing to choose each day, not to exercise each day. After a while, I found that most days I choose exercise - but if I have a day or two or three off, I know it hasn't ruined everything (which is what usually killed every exercise routine I ever started) because...tomorrow I can choose.

[@dustystarr2297]

I was the same until I got on ADHD meds. Since then I've been consistent for 5 years.

[@doudline2662]

Love exercise

[@rebekahdavis5935]

I'm surprised that the studies say they didn't at least in some level help typical people. I would think that regular exercise would help just about anyone with some of these things tested for....

[@russellbarkleyphd2023]

It does help typical people in their health but not in their executive functions or attention as they were not deficient to begin with, I suppose. It’s interesting as a finding but time will tell if other studies find it or not.

[@sonyaparkin7841]

💚

[@nl6813]

I feel like I’m all the more broken because exercise at it’s best leaves me indifferent and worn out, but at it’s worst like when I was at the gym, completely exhausted with a racing mind full of thoughts about how worthless my life is and how I should die.

[@Yhoshua_B]

That's depression yo. Depression that has led to suicidal ideation. It's your body telling you you are out of resources and need to replenish yourself (it's forcing you to stop/slowdown). You can't pour from an empty cup.

[@nl6813]

Isn’t exercise also supposed to help depression? But I am noticing my body forcing me to sleep for 12-15 hours. Right now, exercise is off the table when life’s daily demands are already more than enough.

[@chriscohlmeyer4735]

Something to be said about school up to before the 70's, 50's and 60's minimal homework in elementary school, morning and afternoon recess, almost daily gym periods, free range after of school until supper time if it was not stormy. The older teachers didn't yell at us if we lost attention but gave us an active chore to do, younger teachers didn't have that knowledge. Now, a young child seen walking without an adult will too often result in the police being called.

[@russellbarkleyphd2023]

Yes, indeed, as a child of the 50s and teen in the 60s myself, it was a different time of free ranging children. No helicopter parents then. How things have changed. Be well

[@sfstucco]

Everything you said applies to my background, as well -- except the part about active chores given to those who lost attention. I don't recall that happening in my environment, but then I never had trouble losing attention, so that could be the explanation! I was in a Catholic grade school, and there was no toleration of disruptions in the classroom, and there never were disruptions. I wasn't the hyperactive type, & I don't really know who was in our grade. But the regular, extensive activity must have been very beneficial to us all.

[@chrisarchibeque8584]

I agree with you on medication although I do feel you’re a little too pro-med. But I realize you can’t bite the hand (s) that feed you. I’ve learned a lot from you. Thank you Dr Barkley 🙏

[@user-wq2gv5ql9p]

Thank you. Im mother

[@francisturney2938]

I'm curious as to why this is though, if it improves neurotransmitter activity, shouldn't it improve the focus of the non-ADHDers too?

[@Yhoshua_B]

It does! The benefits of exercise for the human body is well documented. Diet is key as well.

[@anka1833]

💯

[@jamiejohnson5748]

FINE I'll get a walking pad 😊 Dr. Barkley said... :)

[@mrjohncrumpton]

How about meditation? I find it really helps.

[@russellbarkleyphd2023]

Yes, in some new studies it does help, especially with emotion regulation. See the new book by Lydia Zylowska and John Mitchell on this for ADHD adults. Be well.

[@Fronkenstien]

Okay so I'm choosing this video to comment on simply because it's the newest video out from Dr Barkley. I love his content. I very much respect his opinion. But my comments are going to be a little bit out of context ironically enough... I would like to advocate for a new name for this condition. I think one of the biggest problems of treating it is the name of the disorder doesn't accurately describe the disorder to anyone, especially the average person. I do believe the disorder has one underlying factor throughout the entire condition. It is that we all possess a low baseline of dopamine. We get bored easy because if it's not exciting then there's no dopamine. So what happens is we get distracted. We lose the context of what's going on in our life because we're chasing dopamine. I'm sure everybody's going to hate my name but that's probably just my low dopamine talking. 😅 Okay well here it is. I think this is the most accurate name that can be given to the disorder that truly reflects what's going on and makes it so much easier to understand, diagnose, and treat. Drum roll please... Hypodopaminic Context Management Disorder Tada!! Okay so why do I think this name is so much better. Number one I think it instantly helps people realize that this is a neurochemical imbalance in the brain. It also highlights how this neurochemical imbalance pushes us to lose the context of what's going on in our life and start chasing dopamine. It also helps us to realize that we need to try not to chase dopamine even though it seems really inviting, like it's the only thing you should ever do ever. Why do people with HCMD struggle with addiction? Because they have a low baseline dopamine level in their brain and so they chase dopamine. In that process they lose the context of what in their own eyes they're supposed to be doing with their life. They basically struggle to maintain a long-term time-based view of their life because they get distracted mining dopamine. Of course the contexts management component is all about the challenges of working memory in a brain with a broken reward system. Alright, well, please comment. Another one I thought of that was similar is Hypodopaminic Distraction Disorder. The problem I think of when I think of this one is that it doesn't really help the person to focus on the part that is what they're really losing, how the activity that they need to stay focused on is related to the overall context of the success of their life. Though it is simpler and I like that.

[@Fronkenstien]

Or Dopamine Deficiency Syndrome. Whatever it is we need to pick a new name. ADHD doesn't properly describe what we face or what those around us face.

[@Fronkenstien]

Well I'm sure you guys all meant to reply but you probably got distracted. 😁

[@EmTheyErasedMyHandle]

Three months late and a dollar short, but for what it's worth: I like it!

[@Kirnotsarg]

My new goal in life is to cut down my browser tabs to only eleven, like Dr Barkley showed in this video.

[@sandrinekew3156]

Dr Barkley: What about ADHD and morbid obesity? I once heard a doctor saying that 50% of the morbidly obese folks have ADHD. Is this because of the lack of dopamine?.

[@Yhoshua_B]

Perhaps it's lack of impulse control as it relates to food? That and lack of physical activity.

[@stoneneils]

NO!!!! All I do is exercise now!! I can't stay inside for more than 90 minutes...for the past EIGHT years!!! I stopped taking adhd meds and this is what I got in return...be very careful.. I'm in the best physical shape of my life but I've gone from senior IT coder to janitor no joke..i need to physically move all the time or I go INSANE. They won't give me pills anymore either so here I am. :) I can't say it isn't fun but lordy lordy it is NOT productive whatsoever.

[@sfstucco]

Interesting !! Although, Dr. Barkley DID say most of the studies suggested that hyperactivity was NOT reduced with exercise. Most of the studies showed exercise benefited executive function and some showed a benefit to attention. But hyperactivity appears, from the studies, to not be helped. I'm curious: why are you being denied medication? Do you have a proper diagnosis of ADHD? If you do, it seems to be an incorrect conclusion someone is making for you.

[@dustystarr2297]

Yup, I find there's no substitute for med's.

[@stoneneils]

@@sfstuccoI'm diagnosed with ADHD but also with mdma, methamphetamine, cocaine and even pseudoephedrine addiction...only my family doctor would prescribe it but he retired. I could get them again if i really wanted but i go crazy everytime....i can't control myself...so really its on me protecting myself from me.

[@shanedeters5571]

This is amazing and supports JOrdan Petersons narrative to a small bit.

[@Finallyicanchangethishandle]

Uuuuuugggggghhhhh 🙉

[@jasonmcbride88]

Just start with two minutes, if it felt awful, you hit your goal, if it’s good, keep going

[@joeya289]

Jordan Peterson was the first person i heard sharing this idea

[@Finallyicanchangethishandle]

We learn this in kindergarten

[@jonr6680]

Peterson is a self publicist shill who jumps on any bandwagon to get traction. He for SURE didn't invent 'fitness is good for you'!!

[@dustystarr2297]

Problem with JP (amongst the myriad of others he has) is he thinks this is all you need and denies the science that points out that this isn't the "miracle cure" he's trying to paint it as.

[@joeya289]

@dustystarr2297 the problem with you is you think what you just said is an accurate representation. 🤣😂

[@dustystarr2297]

@@joeya289 Actually it was Dr Barkley's representation of JP's view's on ADHD. kzbin.info/www/bejne/bZnMlJKbfKh0lZIsi=x7-7Lmt5CSW8cOlo