The Use of Computer Based Test Battery for the Assessment of Cognitive Functions in Elite-Level Strength Training

Abstract

The aim of this study was to propose a standard test battery consisting of necessary tools for measuring and comparing the various aspects of cognitive outcomes. The battery was used to determine whether adolescent women performing regular elite-level strength training differed from their sedentary peers in terms of cognition, and also to determine how a single session of strength training affects cognition in highly trained adolescents. Motor functions, ability of sustaining attention and executive functions of 25 elite female weightlifters and 22 sedentary females were evaluated through finger tapping performance, visual reaction time (VRT) and recognition visual reaction time (R-VRT) data. Weightlifters were tested before and after a training session, sedentary controls were tested only during resting. There was a significant increase in mean complex R-VRT of weightlifters after training (p<0.01). In R-VRT tests, rate of false answers increased significantly after training (p<0.05). Mean VRT of weightlifters (during rest) and sedentary peers were not different in any of the tests (p>0.05). Total number of taps and mean inter-tap intervals did not show any difference in the weightlifter group before and after training, also between weightlifters and sedentary controls (p>0.05). Elite level strength training does not improve cognition in adolescence. Adolescent weightlifters' executive functions are deteriorated following a single training session however, this effect is temporary.