Cortical activation and functional connectivity in visual-cognitive-motor networks during motor-cognitive exercise

PURPOSE: When compared to computer-based brain training, motor-cognitive exercises and exergaming claim to provide stronger brain activation and better transfer due to the integration of a more complex motor task. To evaluate if this is supported by neural dynamics, this study compared event-related potentials and connectivity between a cognitive and motor-cognitive training task.

METHODS: 21 participants performed a choice-reaction task with either an upper extremity button press (cognitive condition) or lower extremity stepping movement (motor-cognitive condition) input using the SKILLCOURT technology. The visual stimulation and cognitive task were identical. In addition to reaction time, neural activity was recorded using a 64-channel EEG system. Time course of neural activation and event-related potential data in visual premotor, primary motor and sensory regions of interest were compared between conditions. In addition, connectivity was calculated to identify differences in functional communication.

RESULTS: Neural engagement was stronger in the motor-cognitive condition as reflected by a higher amplitude (p < 0.001) and longer latency (p = 0.02) of the BA6 negativity potential as well as higher activity in electrodes representing the foot region of the primary motor cortex (p < 0.001). This was accompanied by enhanced connectivity between electrodes covering the premotor cortex and frontal, primary motor and visual areas p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION: The findings suggest that the premotor cortex plays a key role in motor-cognitive training. This supports the assumption of stronger engagement of motor areas in motor-cognitive when compared to cognitive training and shed light on the neural processes that may underly superior training effects when compared to computer-based cognitive training.