Attention Deficit Hyperactivity DisorderMCT-MLTNCT07845981
Multi-Component Training Versus Motor Learning Techniques in Adults With ADHD
A study testing Multi-Component Training and Motor Learning Techniques in people with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, run by Riphah International University at 1 site in Pakistan.
Trial summary
This randomized clinical trial aims to compare the effects of multi-component training and motor learning techniques on attention, cognitive performance, and motor coordination in adults with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Read more about this study
- Who is it for?
- Ages 18 to 30 years
- Conditions the study is for
- Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
- What is being tested?
- Multi-Component Training and Motor Learning Techniques
- Type of treatment
- Lifestyle or therapy programme
- Could I receive a placebo?
- No, everyone receives an active treatment
- How many people
- 44 participants
- Where
- 1 sitePakistan
- Study dates
- 10 Sep 2026to 10 Dec 2026
- Phase
- Interventional
- Are there results?
- Not yet: the study is under way
Key requirements
Who can take part, as listed by the sponsor. Only the study team can confirm whether you are eligible, so take this list to your doctor.
- Ages 18 to 30 years
- All sexes
- No healthy volunteers
- Adult
Who may be able to join
- Male and female adults aged 18 to 30 years.
- Clinically diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.
- Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale score indicating ADHD symptoms.
- Montreal Cognitive Assessment score less than 26 out of 30.
- Medically stable and able to participate in moderate physical activity.
- Not currently participating in any other structured cognitive or physical intervention program.
- Able to attend supervised sessions three times per week for 8 weeks.
- Willing to provide written informed consent.
Who cannot join
- History of systemic or neurological disorders.
- Currently undergoing treatment for ADHD or participating in similar interventions.
- Physical limitations preventing participation in physical activity.
- Severe psychiatric conditions such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder.
- Uncontrolled cardiovascular conditions or medical contraindications to moderate physical activity.
- Taking medications that significantly alter cognitive or motor performance unless stabilized for at least 3 months.
- History of substance abuse within the past 12 months.
Trial locations and contacts
1 site in 1 country. Contact the study team or a site near you to ask about taking part.
Pakistan1 site
Shalamar Hospital and Ali Hospital
Lahore, Punjab Province, 54000
Ambreen iqbal, phd*, 03227616154, iqbalambreen8@gmail.com
wajeeha zia, phd*, +923227616154, iqbalambreen8@gmail.com
About this study
Official title: Comparative Effects of Multi-Component Training and Motor Learning Techniques on Attention, Cognitive Performance, and Motor Coordination in Adults With Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
This randomized clinical trial aims to compare the effects of multi-component training and motor learning techniques on attention, cognitive performance, and motor coordination in adults with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). ADHD in adults is associated with impairments in executive function, attention regulation, and motor coordination, which significantly impact daily functioning and quality of life. While pharmacological and behavioral therapies are commonly used, non-pharmacological interventions such as structured exercise and motor learning approaches have shown potential benefits.
A total of 44 participants aged 18-30 years with clinically diagnosed ADHD will be recruited and randomly allocated into two groups. Group A will receive multi-component training including aerobic, resistance, balance, and flexibility exercises, while Group B will receive motor learning techniques focusing on task-oriented and cognitive-motor dual-task training. Both interventions will be administered three times per week for eight weeks.
Outcome measures will include standardized tools assessing attention, executive function, and cognitive performance, including ADHD rating scales and cognitive assessments. Data will be analyzed pre- and post-intervention to determine within-group and between-group differences. This study aims to identify effective, non-pharmacological rehabilitation strategies for improving cognitive and motor outcomes in adults with ADHD.
Read the detailed description
Background and Rationale
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, persisting into adulthood in a significant proportion of individuals. Adults with ADHD commonly experience deficits in executive function, attention, working memory, and motor coordination, leading to reduced occupational performance, impaired social relationships, and decreased quality of life.
Although pharmacological treatments such as stimulant medications are widely used, they may not be suitable for all individuals due to side effects, contraindications, or limited long-term effectiveness. Therefore, there is increasing interest in non-pharmacological interventions such as structured physical exercise and motor learning techniques, which may enhance neuroplasticity and improve cognitive and motor outcomes.
Multi-component training integrates aerobic, resistance, balance, and flexibility exercises and has been associated with improvements in executive function, attention, and emotional regulation. Motor learning techniques focus on task-oriented training, repetition, feedback, and cognitive-motor integration to improve coordination and functional performance. However, limited research has directly compared these two approaches in adults with ADHD.
Objective
To compare the effects of multi-component training and motor learning techniques on attention, cognitive performance, and motor coordination in adults with ADHD.
Study Design
This study will be a single-blind, randomized clinical trial.
Participants
A total of 44 participants aged 18-30 years with clinically diagnosed ADHD will be recruited using non-probability convenience sampling. Participants must meet inclusion criteria including confirmed ADHD diagnosis and ability to participate in moderate physical activity.
Randomization and Blinding
Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups using a computer-generated randomization method. Allocation will be concealed using sealed opaque envelopes. The outcome assessor will remain blinded to group allocation.
Interventions
Group A: Multi-Component Training
Participants will undergo a structured exercise program including:
Aerobic training (moderate intensity) Resistance training using light weights or bands Balance and flexibility exercises Sessions will be conducted three times per week for 8 weeks.
Group B: Motor Learning Techniques
Participants will receive:
Task-oriented motor training Cognitive-motor dual-task activities Feedback-based motor learning strategies Sessions will be conducted three times per week for 8 weeks. Outcome Measures
Primary and secondary outcomes will be assessed at baseline and post-intervention using standardized tools:
Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS) Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) Conners' Adult ADHD Rating Scales (CAARS) Stroop Color and Word Test Trail Making Test (Parts A and B) Digit Span Test Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function (BRIEF-A) Data Analysis
Data will be analyzed using SPSS version 27. Descriptive statistics will summarize participant characteristics. Normality will be assessed using the Shapiro-Wilk test.
Within-group comparisons: Paired t-test or Wilcoxon signed-rank test Between-group comparisons: Independent t-test or Mann-Whitney U test Statistical significance set at p < 0.05 Expected Outcome
This study is expected to determine whether multi-component training or motor learning techniques are more effective in improving attention, cognitive performance, and motor coordination in adults with ADHD. Findings may contribute to evidence-based, non-pharmacological rehabilitation strategies for ADHD management.
- Conditions
- Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
- Being tested
- Multi-Component Training, Motor Learning Techniques
- Keywords
- Motor Training, Neurorehabilitation, Randomized Clinical trail, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Attention, Cognitive Performance, motor Learning Techniques, Multi-Component Training
- Medical subject headings
- Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity
What participants receive
What participants receive. In a randomised study each person is assigned to one group by chance.
Multi-Component TrainingBehavioural
Also called Exercise Training, Multicomponent Exercise Program
Multi-component training will include warm-up, moderate-intensity aerobic exercise, resistance training using light weights or resistance bands, balance and flexibility exercises, breathing exercises, and cool-down. Sessions will be supervised three times per week for 8 weeks, with each session lasting approximately 30-40 minutes.
Motor Learning TechniquesBehavioural
Also called Task-Oriented Training, Cognitive-Motor Dual-Task Training
Motor learning techniques will include warm-up, task-oriented functional motor activities, cognitive-motor dual-task exercises, feedback-based learning, and cool-down. Sessions will be supervised three times per week for 8 weeks, with each session lasting approximately 30-40 minutes.
| Study group | Role | What they receive |
|---|---|---|
| Multi-Component Training Group | Experimental | Participants in this group will receive multi-component training including warm-up, aerobic training, resistance training, balance and flexibility exercises, breathing exercises, and cool-down. Sessions will be conducted three times per week for 8 weeks, with each session lasting approximately 30-40 minutes. Receives: Behavioral: Multi-Component Training |
| Motor Learning Techniques Group | Active comparator | Participants in this group will receive motor learning techniques including warm-up, task-oriented training, cognitive-motor dual-task activities, feedback-based learning, and cool-down. Sessions will be conducted three times per week for 8 weeks, with each session lasting approximately 30-40 minutes. Receives: Behavioral: Motor Learning Techniques |
What is being measured
The primary outcome is the main question the study is designed to answer.
Conners' Adult ADHD Rating Scale
Adult ADHD symptom severity will be assessed using the Conners' Adult ADHD Rating Scales (CAARS).
Measured: 8 weeks of treatment (Pre & Post)
Secondary outcomes (2)
Purdue Pegboard Test
Dominant-hand motor coordination and manual dexterity will be assessed using the Purdue Pegboard Test.
Measured: Baseline and immediately after completion of the 8-week intervention
Trial Making Test
Performance was assessed by noting the overall completion time for each segment in seconds
Measured: 8 weeks of intervention (Pre & Post)
Timeline
From the start of the study to its completion; the mark is today. Estimated dates are the sponsor’s plan.
- First posted29 Sep 2026
- Study start10 Sep 2026 (estimated)
- Primary completion10 Dec 2026 (estimated)
- Study completion10 Dec 2026 (estimated)
Resources
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govThe registry entry this page is built from, with its full change history.
- Other trials for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity DisorderStudies of the same condition, open and under way.
- What the trial phases meanHow a treatment moves from first tests in people to approval.
More details
For doctors and researchers: how the study is designed, who runs it, and its registry IDs.
Study design
- Study type
- Interventional
- Phase
- Phase N/A
- Primary purpose
- Treatment
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Model description
- participants will be randomly assigned into two parallel groups. Group A will receive multi-component training, and Group B will receive motor learning techniques. Both groups will receive supervised intervention sessions three times per week for 8 weeks.
- Masking
- Single blind
- Who is masked
- Participant
- Enrolment
- 44 participants (estimated)
Sponsor and investigators
- Lead sponsor
- Riphah International University
- Sponsor type
- University, hospital or other
- Responsible party
- Sponsor
- Investigators
- Wajeeha zia, Principal investigator, Riphah International University Role
IDs, dates and publications
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07845981
- Sponsor's protocol ID
- AIMEN-ABBAS
- Acronym
- MCT-MLT
- Status last verified
- Sep 2026
- First submitted
- 1 Jun 2026
- Last updated
- 29 Sep 2026
- Results posted
- No
- Data monitoring committee
- No
- FDA-regulated drug
- No
- FDA-regulated device
- No
- Individual data sharing
- No
Study at a glance
From the registry record, last updated by the sponsor on 29 Sep 2026. Recruitment status is as the sponsor reported it: confirm with the study team.
- Official title
- Comparative Effects of Multi-Component Training and Motor Learning Techniques on Attention, Cognitive Performance, and Motor Coordination in Adults With Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07845981
- Acronym / sponsor ID
- MCT-MLT / AIMEN-ABBAS
- Conditions
- Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
- Keywords
- Motor Training, Neurorehabilitation, Randomized Clinical trail, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Attention, Cognitive Performance, motor Learning Techniques, Multi-Component Training
- Study type
- Interventional
- Recruitment status
- Not yet recruiting
- Enrolment
- 44 participants (estimated)
- Lead sponsor
- Riphah International UniversityUniversity, hospital or other
- Study start
- 10 Sep 2026 (estimated)
- Primary completion
- 10 Dec 2026 (estimated)
- Study completion
- 10 Dec 2026 (estimated)
- First posted
- 29 Sep 2026 (actual)
- Results
- Not posted in the source record
Clinical summary
The research question as the sponsor registered it. This describes what the study plans to test, not what it found.
This randomized clinical trial aims to compare the effects of multi-component training and motor learning techniques on attention, cognitive performance, and motor coordination in adults with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). ADHD in adults is associated with impairments in executive function, attention regulation, and motor coordination, which significantly impact daily functioning and quality of life. While pharmacological and behavioral therapies are commonly used, non-pharmacological interventions such as structured exercise and motor learning approaches have shown potential benefits.
A total of 44 participants aged 18-30 years with clinically diagnosed ADHD will be recruited and randomly allocated into two groups. Group A will receive multi-component training including aerobic, resistance, balance, and flexibility exercises, while Group B will receive motor learning techniques focusing on task-oriented and cognitive-motor dual-task training. Both interventions will be administered three times per week for eight weeks.
Outcome measures will include standardized tools assessing attention, executive function, and cognitive performance, including ADHD rating scales and cognitive assessments. Data will be analyzed pre- and post-intervention to determine within-group and between-group differences. This study aims to identify effective, non-pharmacological rehabilitation strategies for improving cognitive and motor outcomes in adults with ADHD.
Detailed description
Background and Rationale
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, persisting into adulthood in a significant proportion of individuals. Adults with ADHD commonly experience deficits in executive function, attention, working memory, and motor coordination, leading to reduced occupational performance, impaired social relationships, and decreased quality of life.
Although pharmacological treatments such as stimulant medications are widely used, they may not be suitable for all individuals due to side effects, contraindications, or limited long-term effectiveness. Therefore, there is increasing interest in non-pharmacological interventions such as structured physical exercise and motor learning techniques, which may enhance neuroplasticity and improve cognitive and motor outcomes.
Multi-component training integrates aerobic, resistance, balance, and flexibility exercises and has been associated with improvements in executive function, attention, and emotional regulation. Motor learning techniques focus on task-oriented training, repetition, feedback, and cognitive-motor integration to improve coordination and functional performance. However, limited research has directly compared these two approaches in adults with ADHD.
Objective
To compare the effects of multi-component training and motor learning techniques on attention, cognitive performance, and motor coordination in adults with ADHD.
Study Design
This study will be a single-blind, randomized clinical trial.
Participants
A total of 44 participants aged 18-30 years with clinically diagnosed ADHD will be recruited using non-probability convenience sampling. Participants must meet inclusion criteria including confirmed ADHD diagnosis and ability to participate in moderate physical activity.
Randomization and Blinding
Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups using a computer-generated randomization method. Allocation will be concealed using sealed opaque envelopes. The outcome assessor will remain blinded to group allocation.
Interventions
Group A: Multi-Component Training
Participants will undergo a structured exercise program including:
Aerobic training (moderate intensity) Resistance training using light weights or bands Balance and flexibility exercises Sessions will be conducted three times per week for 8 weeks.
Group B: Motor Learning Techniques
Participants will receive:
Task-oriented motor training Cognitive-motor dual-task activities Feedback-based motor learning strategies Sessions will be conducted three times per week for 8 weeks. Outcome Measures
Primary and secondary outcomes will be assessed at baseline and post-intervention using standardized tools:
Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS) Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) Conners' Adult ADHD Rating Scales (CAARS) Stroop Color and Word Test Trail Making Test (Parts A and B) Digit Span Test Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function (BRIEF-A) Data Analysis
Data will be analyzed using SPSS version 27. Descriptive statistics will summarize participant characteristics. Normality will be assessed using the Shapiro-Wilk test.
Within-group comparisons: Paired t-test or Wilcoxon signed-rank test Between-group comparisons: Independent t-test or Mann-Whitney U test Statistical significance set at p < 0.05 Expected Outcome
This study is expected to determine whether multi-component training or motor learning techniques are more effective in improving attention, cognitive performance, and motor coordination in adults with ADHD. Findings may contribute to evidence-based, non-pharmacological rehabilitation strategies for ADHD management.
Study design
- Primary purpose
- Treatment
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Masking
- Single blind (participant)
- Number of arms
- 2
- Model description
- participants will be randomly assigned into two parallel groups. Group A will receive multi-component training, and Group B will receive motor learning techniques. Both groups will receive supervised intervention sessions three times per week for 8 weeks.
| Arm | Type | Receives |
|---|---|---|
| Multi-Component Training Group | Experimental | Behavioral: Multi-Component TrainingParticipants in this group will receive multi-component training including warm-up, aerobic training, resistance training, balance and flexibility exercises, breathing exercises, and cool-down. Sessions will be conducted three times per week for 8 weeks, with each session lasting approximately 30-40 minutes. |
| Motor Learning Techniques Group | Active comparator | Behavioral: Motor Learning TechniquesParticipants in this group will receive motor learning techniques including warm-up, task-oriented training, cognitive-motor dual-task activities, feedback-based learning, and cool-down. Sessions will be conducted three times per week for 8 weeks, with each session lasting approximately 30-40 minutes. |
Who may qualify
- Ages
- 18 to 30 years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- Not accepted
- Age groups
- Adult
Key inclusion criteria (8 listed)
- Male and female adults aged 18 to 30 years.
- Clinically diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.
- Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale score indicating ADHD symptoms.
- Montreal Cognitive Assessment score less than 26 out of 30.
- Medically stable and able to participate in moderate physical activity.
Key exclusion criteria (7 listed)
- History of systemic or neurological disorders.
- Currently undergoing treatment for ADHD or participating in similar interventions.
- Physical limitations preventing participation in physical activity.
- Severe psychiatric conditions such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder.
- Uncontrolled cardiovascular conditions or medical contraindications to moderate physical activity.
Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening; this overview does not establish that a patient qualifies. Full inclusion and exclusion criteria.
Interventions
| Intervention | Type | Arms |
|---|---|---|
| Multi-Component TrainingAlso: Exercise Training, Multicomponent Exercise ProgramMulti-component training will include warm-up, moderate-intensity aerobic exercise, resistance training using light weights or resistance bands, balance and flexibility exercises, breathing exercises, and cool-down. Sessions will be supervised three times per week for 8 weeks, with each session lasting approximately 30-40 minutes. | Behavioural | Multi-Component Training Group |
| Motor Learning TechniquesAlso: Task-Oriented Training, Cognitive-Motor Dual-Task TrainingMotor learning techniques will include warm-up, task-oriented functional motor activities, cognitive-motor dual-task exercises, feedback-based learning, and cool-down. Sessions will be supervised three times per week for 8 weeks, with each session lasting approximately 30-40 minutes. | Behavioural | Motor Learning Techniques Group |
Primary outcome
Conners' Adult ADHD Rating Scale
Time frame: 8 weeks of treatment (Pre & Post)
Adult ADHD symptom severity will be assessed using the Conners' Adult ADHD Rating Scales (CAARS).
2 secondary outcomes
Purdue Pegboard Test
Time frame: Baseline and immediately after completion of the 8-week intervention
Trial Making Test
Time frame: 8 weeks of intervention (Pre & Post)
Results and safety
This study is still under way. Results are not available in the source record yet.
Research links
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govLast updated by the sponsor 29 Sep 2026.
- Individual participant dataSharing planned: No
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Referral and contact
AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals. Contact the study team or a site listed below; they decide who can take part.
Wajeeha zia principal investigator
Riphah International University Role
1 site in 1 country: see every site and its status.
Questions about this trial
What is this clinical trial studying?
A study testing Multi-Component Training and Motor Learning Techniques in people with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, run by Riphah International University at 1 site in Pakistan.
The full registered description is in the About this study section and the official record.
Who may be eligible to take part?
The sponsor lists 8 inclusion and 7 exclusion criteria. Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening, so read the full criteria and contact a listed site.
Is this clinical trial currently recruiting?
The record says: opening soon, as of the sponsor's last update on 29 Sep 2026. Status can change between updates, so confirm with the study contact before making plans.
Where is the study taking place?
The record lists 1 site in Pakistan. Whether a site is taking part right now should be confirmed with that site. See every site.
What are the possible benefits and risks?
They depend on the study and the treatment, and no study can promise a benefit. The study team explains the known risks during informed consent, before anyone joins; the record itself does not list them.
Are results available for this study?
This study is still under way. Results are not available in the source record yet.
How can a doctor refer a patient or contact the research team?
Contact Ambreen iqbal (+92 322 7616154, iqbalambreen8@gmail.com), or a site near the patient. AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals.
What does the primary outcome measure?
Conners' Adult ADHD Rating Scale (time frame: 8 weeks of treatment (Pre & Post)). It is what the study was designed to measure, not a finding.
Where can I read the original study information?
Does a listing mean the treatment is approved or proven to work?
No. A listing means the study is registered. It does not show that the treatment is safe, works, or is approved by a regulator.
How often is this information updated?
AzTrials copies changed records from ClinicalTrials.gov every night and reloads the whole registry every week. The sponsor last updated this record on 29 Sep 2026.