Changes in brain activity induced by the N-back task are related to improved dual-task performance

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Sports Science
• Cognitive Psychology

Background:

• Dual-task performance is crucial in athletic competitions.
• Previous research suggests cognitive tasks may enhance dual-task performance.
• The underlying neural mechanisms for this enhancement are not fully understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate if cognitive tasks alter brain activity associated with improved dual-task performance.
• To examine the relationship between cognitive task-induced brain changes and dual-task improvement.

Main Methods:

• Nineteen healthy adults performed N-back and reaction tasks.
• A dual-task combined force control and calculation.
• Cerebral hemodynamic activity was measured using near-infrared spectroscopy.

Main Results:

• Performing the N-back task improved force-control performance in the dual-task setting.
• Increased oxyhemoglobin in the right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex correlated with better force control.
• Cognitive tasks showed potential for clinical application in physical training.

Conclusions:

• Cognitive tasks, specifically the N-back, can enhance physical performance in dual-task scenarios.
• Prefrontal cortex activity during cognitive tasks is linked to improved motor control.
• Cognitive training may be a valuable addition to physical rehabilitation and athletic training.