Cognitive-motor training - a narrative cornerstone review and systematic classification approach

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Sports Medicine
• Rehabilitation

Background:

• Cognitive-motor training integrates cognitive and motor tasks, showing benefits in older adults for fall prevention.
• Current applications expand to neurological diseases, concussion management, and athletic performance enhancement.
• Existing approaches lack standardization in terminology and content across diverse clinical settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review essential aspects of cognitive-motor training, including terminology, indications, and content.
• To establish a framework connecting neurocognitive domains with motor demands for tailored training.
• To address the heterogeneity in cognitive-motor training applications for novel patient populations.

Main Methods:

• Narrative cornerstone review synthesizing existing literature.
• Systematic connection of neurocognitive domains (memory, attention, executive functions) with motor demands (endurance, strength, coordination).
• Analysis of terminology, indications, and examples across different applications.

Main Results:

• Cognitive-motor training is increasingly applied beyond geriatrics, showing potential in diverse neurological and performance contexts.
• Significant variability exists in the specific cognitive and motor components used.
• A structured framework is proposed to guide the development of comprehensive or specific training programs.

Conclusions:

• Cognitive-motor training offers a versatile approach for enhancing neurocognitive and motor functions across various populations.
• Standardization and a clear framework are needed to optimize its application in neurological rehabilitation and sports science.
• Further research should focus on tailored interventions based on specific neurocognitive and motor profiles.