Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 25, 2026

Author Spotlight: Exploring the Impact of Reduced Resistance Exercise Volume on Metabolic Health
Published on: December 1, 2023
The Effects of Computerized Cognitive Training With and Without Physical Exercise on Cognitive Function in Older
Lisanne F Ten Brinke1,2,3, John R Best1,2,3, Joey L C Chan1,2,3
1Aging, Mobility, and Cognitive Neuroscience Laboratory, Department of Physical Therapy, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada.
Background:
Aging is characterized by cognitive changes in specific domains, such as declines in memory and executive functions. Given the world's aging population, it is important to identify and evaluate strategies that promote healthy cognitive aging. Besides exercise, computerized cognitive training (CCT) is a promising approach to promote cognitive function. Moreover, a single bout of exercise immediately prior to CCT may provide additional cognitive benefits.
Methods:
An 8-week proof-of-concept randomized controlled trial to investigate the effect of a commercial CCT intervention, alone and when preceded by exercise, on cognitive function. Participants (124; aged 65-85 years) performed 8 weeks of: (i) Group-based CCT (Fit Brains) 3×/week for 1 hour plus 3×/week home-based training; (ii) Group-based CCT preceded by exercise (Ex-CCT) 3×/week for 1 hour plus 3×/week home-based training (exercise+CCT); or (iii) Group-based balanced and toned (BAT) classes 3×/week for 1 hour (control). Memory was assessed by the Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test. Executive functions were assessed using the: (i) Stroop Test, (ii) Trail Making Tests (TMT), (iii) Flanker Test, and (iv) Dimensional Change Card Sort Test (DCCS).
Results:
At trial completion, there were no significant between-group differences in memory (p > .05). However, compared with BAT, CCT, and Ex-CCT significantly improved Stroop performance (-10.72, 95% confidence interval [CI]: -16.53, -4.91; -7.95, 95% CI: -13.77, -2.13, respectively). Moreover, Ex-CCT significantly improved the performance on TMT (-13.65, 95% CI: -26.09, -1.22), the Flanker Test (6.72, 95% CI: 2.55, 10.88), and the DCCS Test (6.75, 95% CI: 0.99, 12.50).
Conclusion:
An 8-week CCT program may promote executive functions in older adults and combining it with a bout of exercise may provide broader benefits.
More Related Videos
08:42Assessment of Social Cognition in Non-human Primates Using a Network of Computerized Automated Learning Device ALDM Test Systems
Published on: May 5, 2015
08:53Randomized, Triple-Blind, and Parallel-Controlled Trial of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation for Cognitive Rehabilitation after Stroke
Published on: June 6, 2025
Related Concept Videos
Cognitive Dissonance
Revisionist Views of Adolescent and Adult Cognition
Language and Cognition
Cognitive Therapy
Cognition and Behavior
Cognitive Learning
E. C. Tolman's theory of purposive behavior emphasizes that much behavior is goal-directed. He argued that to understand behavior, we must look at the entire sequence of actions leading to a goal. For instance, high school students study hard, not just due to past reinforcement but also to achieve the goal of getting into a good college.
Tolman introduced the idea that behavior is influenced by...