Brain Regions Related to Peak Athletic Performance:

There are certain skills and qualities that contribute to athletes being successful and mastering their craft.  Some of those skills include:

• • Focused attention
  • Concentration
  • Quick reactions
  • Self-confidence
  • Resiliency 
  • Good memory
  • Coordination
  • Balance
  • Emotional regulation

The brain controls the processes necessary for the execution of these skills.  The limbic system and reward circuits are largely responsible for learning, managing emotions, motivation, and to some degree, feelings of self-efficacy.  Executive skills like attention, concentration, and decision-making are determined by how well the frontal lobes are functioning and communicating with other brain regions.  The cerebellum controls balance and coordination.  Through decades of brain imaging, we have a better idea of how the brain needs to behave in order to perform at its peak and facilitate all these complex processes.  We can now translate that knowledge into training programs that can enhance optimal cortical activity, which means optimal athletic performance as well.

Traditionally, interventions like neurofeedback have been used to address clinical disorders and symptoms.  However, training can also be utilized to enhance and maximize the brain and the body’s abilities.  Neurofeedback addresses the long-term, high levels of stress experienced by many athletes and individuals aiming to perform at optimal levels.  Neurofeedback supports recovery, enhances sleep, and helps peak performers access their “flow state” more effectively. This helps minimize distractions, increase hand-eye coordination and processing speed, and improve focus. The benefits from neurofeedback assist in better execution of decision making, improves physical recovery, and supports enhanced relaxation.  Neurotherapy can also help athletes recover from concussions and other injuries.  

Here at NeuroGrove, we utilize advanced forms of 3D functional neuroimaging to see exactly where and how each client’s brain might be impaired and thus be able to get directly to the root of the issue.  We then use this information to develop targeted, individualized programs for each client to aid neurophysiological recovery and optimize cognitive function in the most efficient, effective manner possible.  This may involve advanced brain-computer interface technology (e.g., swLORETA neurofeedback), transcranial neurostimulation, biofeedback, somatic therapies, personalized nutrition, supplementation to reduce inflammation and aid neurogenesis, wellness coaching, and/or integrative psychotherapy.