Enhancing Cognitive and Attentional Skills Through Coordinated Bilateral Activities

Abstract

Introduction

Executive functions—including working memory, inhibitory control, planning, and visuospatial working memory—can be enhanced through targeted physical exercises known as Coordinated Bilateral Physical Activities (CBPA). These exercises were specifically designed to facilitate the exchange of information between the cerebellum and the prefrontal cortex [1]. CBPA routines involve sequences of physical movements that must be memorised and executed in a precise order. During these exercises, individuals must attend to the spatial positioning of their body parts while alternately activating the right and left limbs. As the training progresses, the movement sequences become increasingly complex, with selected steps intentionally omitted [2]. This rising difficulty level places substantial cognitive demands on inhibitory control, working memory, and attention, thereby actively engaging and strengthening these executive functions.

Methodology

A literature review was conducted on empirical studies examining the impact of performing Coordinated Bilateral Physical Activities (CBPA) on school-aged children and pupils with moderate intellectual disabilities. Information was also obtained from the Avare Centre, which specialises in counselling and prevention for children and adults, addressing learning and behavioural disorders, concentration issues, and personal development.

Results

Results show statistically significant improvements in cognitive functions in the areas of nonverbal visual-spatial processing (p = 0.0303), working memory (p = 0.0231), and verbal fluid reasoning (p = 0.0164) in a group of 27 pupils between 8-18 years with moderate intellectual disabilities [2]. Findings suggest that just six minutes of CBPA per day over four weeks can effectively enhance key aspects of attention and concentration in school-aged children at elementary school. Particularly significant increases were observed in processing speed (p = 0.01), focused attention (p = 0.002), and attention span (p = 0.001), although no significant gains in accuracy were reported [1]. Participants demonstrated an improved ability to perform multiple tasks simultaneously with greater ease and showed an enhanced capacity to connect concepts more rapidly. Additionally, improvements in balance and motor skills were also observed [3].

Conclusion

CBPA shows potential as a supportive method for improving cognitive and attentional functions, particularly in educational and rehabilitation settings. While promising results have been observed in children with intellectual disabilities, initial evidence also suggests there might be a potential benefit for neurotypical individuals.

References

[1] H. Buchele Harris, K. S. Cortina, T. Templin, N. Colabianchi, and W. Chen, “Impact of Coordinated-Bilateral Physical Activities on Attention and Concentration in School-Aged Children,” Biomed Res. Int., vol. 2018, 2018. doi: 10.1155/2018/2539748.

[2] M. Koper, M. Lewandowska, and M. Rękosiewicz, “The effect of the Bilateral Integration exercise program on the cognitive functioning of pupils with moderate intellectual disabilities,” Front. Psychiatry, vol. 15, no. October, pp. 1–10, 2024. doi: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1409061.    

[3] Centrum Avare, “Bilaterálna integrácia,” 2025. [Online]. Available: https://bilateralnaintegracia.sk/bilateralna-integracia/. [Accessed: May 20, 2025].