Is the 12 minute-walk/run test a predictive index of cognitive fitness in young healthy individuals? A pilot study on aerobic capacity and working memory in a real-life scenario.

•Positive relationships between VO2max and two cognitive tests (PASAT and SDMT) were observed in young healthy participants.•Auditory test (PASAT) was correlated to aerobic capacity in primary and secondary school students.•Visual test (SDMT) was correlated to aerobic capacity in university students.•Specific effects of aerobic exercise on different domains of cognitive performance can be suggested during development.