In May 2018 researchers from the USA published the results of their study to assess the effect of a brisk walk or meditation on cognitive function in 66 young adults, average age 21 years. The individuals either walked then meditated, meditated then walked, or sat (control group). All walking and meditation bouts were 10 min in duration. Cognitive function was assessed before and after the 10 minute periods. Results showed that reaction time significantly improved in both the walking and meditation groups, but not in the control group. Cognitive function was not substantially affected by a combination of brief meditation and exercise, though there was evidence to suggest that this combination may have beneficial effects on certain aspects of cognition.
Edwards MK and Loprinzi PD. Experimental Effects of Acute Exercise and Meditation on Parameters of Cognitive Function. J Clin Med. 2018 May 29;7(6). pii: E125.