Dance gaming shows promise for ADHD symptoms in young adults

NCT ID NCT07318935

Completed Symptom relief Sponsor: Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested whether playing a dance-based video game (Just Dance 2024) could improve attention, mood, and self-control in young adults with ADHD. Sixty-nine participants aged 18-24 were randomly assigned to dance gaming, stationary biking, or music listening for 30 minutes. Researchers measured brain activity, heart rate, balance, and ADHD symptoms before and after the activity. The goal was to see if a fun, accessible activity like dance gaming could offer benefits beyond traditional exercise or rest.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: dance exergaming (Just Dance 2024 on Nintendo Switch)
What this could lead to: If it works, this could point toward a fun, accessible, non-medication option to help young adults with ADHD manage symptoms like inattention and impulsivity.
What could go wrong: This is a small, completed study with only 69 participants. Results may not apply to everyone with ADHD, and the benefits might be short-term or no better than other exercise.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, inattentive type attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder Motor Activity

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

ADHD

Contacts and locations

Locations

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

Blacksburg, Virginia, 24061, United States

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