The Effect of Neurofeedback Training on Improving Executive Functions in Student Athletes

The effect of neurofeedback training on improving executive functions

Background: Executive functions can be viewed as a key indicator of how and when we perform routine behaviors. They help individuals set goals, regulate themselves, inhibit inappropriate responses, remain flexible, and focus on future-oriented actions. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of neurofeedback training on improving executive functions (working memory, cognitive flexibility, and sustained attention) in student athletes.

Methods: This study used a quasi-experimental design, with the research being applied in nature and employing a pre-test/post-test control group desighn. The population consisted of 200 middle school students (aged 12 to 15 yr) in Shahroud. For sampling, 20 student athletes were first selected based on the results of a physical activity questionnaire and were then randomly assigned to either the experimental or control group. The experimental group underwent 13 neurofeedback training sessions (aimed at increasing beta waves, decreasing theta waves, and enhancing alpha waves), with three sessions per week, each lasting 30 minutes. The control group received no intervention. The research tools included the N-Back test, Wisconsin Card Sorting Test, and Continuous Performance Test to measure working memory, cognitive flexibility, and sustained attention, respectively.

Results: The results of the two-way mixed ANOVA (2x2) indicated a significant difference between the experimental and control groups after controlling for the pre-test effect. According to the LSD post-hoc test, there was no significant difference between the experimental and control groups in the variables of working memory and sustained attention, while a significant difference was observed in cognitive flexibility. Further within-group comparisons, using repeated measures ANOVA, revealed no significant differences in any of the three variables between the groups.

Conclusion: Neurofeedback seems capable of retraining brainwave activity to enhance athletic performance and improve certain mental and cognitive abilities, such as adaptability to changing conditions. However, neurofeedback training in healthy individuals requires further comprehensive research.