Introduction and Purpose: Students’ cognitive functions are influenced by both environmental and physiological factors. This study examined the immediate effects of different short-term physical activities (aerobic, cognitive-motor, and stretching) on attention, working memory, and executive inhibition under classroom conditions.

Methodology: This applied study employed a quasi-experimental multi-group design with pre-test and post-test and a control group. Ninety students (boys and girls aged 10–12) were randomly assigned to three groups of 30. The intervention involved 12 minutes of activity (stationary cycling, jumping with counting, and stretching exercises) prior to administering standard cognitive tests (Stroop, N-back, Go/No-Go). Data were analyzed using ANOVA and post-hoc tests (p < 0.05).

Results: The aerobic group showed a 24% improvement in selective attention and a 19% enhancement in working memory. The cognitive-motor activity improved inhibitory control by 22%, whereas stretching only increased processing speed by 11%. The effect on long-term memory was negligible.

Conclusion: Short-term aerobic exercises represent the most effective method for immediate enhancement of executive functions within educational settings and are recommended for daily school routines.