Effects of Open Versus Closed Skill Exercise on Cognitive Function: A Systematic Review.

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Sports Science
• Cognitive Psychology

Background:

• Exercise modes are categorized as open skill exercise (OSE) and closed skill exercise (CSE).
• Previous research suggests potential differences in cognitive function outcomes between OSE and CSE.
• A systematic review is needed to consolidate existing evidence on this topic.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically evaluate the existing research literature.
• To compare the effects of OSE versus CSE on cognitive function.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature search across six databases (Web of Science, EMBASE, Google Scholar, PubMed, PsycINFO, SPORTDiscus) up to December 2018.
• Inclusion of human intervention and observational studies published in English.
• Independent review and data extraction by two researchers.

Main Results:

• 19 studies (14 observational, 5 intervention) met the inclusion criteria from 1,573 initial articles.
• 12 observational studies indicated OSE benefits cognitive function, with 7 suggesting superior effects over CSE.
• 3 intervention studies showed OSE led to greater cognitive improvements than CSE in children and older adults.

Conclusions:

• The current evidence suggests OSE may be more effective than CSE for enhancing certain aspects of cognitive function.
• The majority of included studies were observational, highlighting a need for more rigorous research.
• Further randomized controlled trials with long-term follow-up are recommended to confirm these differential cognitive effects.