Cognitive-Motor Intervention for Enhancing Attention and Working Memory: An 8-Week Pilot Study in Healthy Young Adults

Background: Cognitive functioning in young adults is critical for academic and professional success, yet subtle impairments often go unnoticed and unaddressed. Cognitive-motor interventions (CMI) that combine physical activity with cognitive tasks are emerging as effective strategies to enhance neurocognitive performance, even in healthy populations. This pilot study aimed to evaluate the effects of an 8-week CMI program on motor processing, attention, and working memory in healthy young adults with suboptimal cognitive performance. Methods: Fifty-six individuals aged 18–26 years were screened using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), and 20 participants with scores <25 were randomly assigned to either a CMI group (n=10) or a control group (n=10). The CMI group received training three times per week for 8 weeks, incorporating dual-task exercises designed to engage motor and cognitive systems simultaneously. The control group received no intervention. Outcomes were measured using the University of Pennsylvania Computerized Neurocognitive Battery (Penn CNB), which includes the Finger Tapping Test (SCTAP) for motor speed, Letter-N-Back Test (LNB2) for attention, and Penn Continuous Performance Test (CPN) for working memory. Data were collected at baseline and post-intervention. Results: Significant improvements were observed in the CMI group compared to controls in SCTAP (dominant hand), LNB2 true positives and false negatives, and CPN true positives and reaction times (p<0.05). No significant changes were noted in the control group. Conclusion: An 8-week CMI program led to significant improvements in motor speed, attention, and working memory in healthy young adults. These findings highlight the potential of integrated cognitive-motor strategies to enhance cognitive performance in young adults.