Acute Effects of a Single-Bout Session of High-Intensity Functional Training and Moderate-Intensity Functional Training on Cognitive Functions, Anxiety, and Stress in Healthy Adults

Background: Currently, it has been observed that a fast-paced lifestyle, along with factors such as work pressure and economic and political uncertainty, among others, negatively impacts cognitive functions and increases levels of anxiety and stress in the population. In this context, physical exercise has been shown to be an effective means of alleviating these effects. The aim of this study is to analyze the acute effects of a single-bout session of high-intensity functional training (HIFT) and a single-bout session of moderate-intensity functional training (MIFT) on cognitive functions and psychological responses such as anxiety and stress. Methods: The study presents an experimental design with an analytical approach, involving 57 healthy adults in a 30 min functional exercise circuit. The HIFT group, with 28 participants, performed a high-intensity exercise circuit (>85% HR max). The MIFT group, with 29 participants, performed a moderate-intensity exercise circuit (70–80% HR max). To evaluate the dependent variables of executive function, attention, memory, anxiety, and stress, the Stroop Test, d2 Test, Word-Recall Test, STAI, and PSS were used, respectively. These tests were administered, in the order mentioned, immediately before and immediately after the training session. Results: Both groups (HIFT and MIFT) showed significant improvements in executive function, attention, and memory, as well as significant reductions in anxiety and stress after the intervention (all p values ranged between p < 0.001 and p < 0.04). However, the HIFT group demonstrated greater improvements in cognitive function and more pronounced reductions in anxiety and stress when compared to the MIFT group. Conclusions: Both HIFT and MIFT can improve cognitive function and reduce anxiety and stress, but high-intensity exercise appears to offer greater benefits.