Qonidah Salsabila Senja, Wei Shan, Xindong Ma, Qing Yi, Hongwei Yan
Background: Life Kinetics training, a multimodal intervention integrating coordinated motor tasks with cognitive challenges, has been proposed as a method to enhance neurocognitive and sport-specific performance. This study examined the effects of an 18-session Life Kinetics program on concentration, working memory, and service performance in junior and intermediate badminton athletes. Methods: Forty athletes (20 junior, 20 intermediate) were included in the final analysis following random allocation to Life Kinetics or control groups. The intervention group performed Life Kinetics training in addition to regular badminton practice for six weeks, while the control group maintained standard training. Outcomes included concentration (Concentration Grid Test), working memory (Digit Span Test), and short- and long-service performance. Data were analyzed using mixed-design ANOVA to assess Group × Time (pre–post) effects, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. Results: Significant Group × Time interaction effects were observed for concentration (F(1, 38) = 152.40, p < 0.001, ηp2 = 0.80), working memory (F(1, 38) = 168.70, p < 0.001, ηp2 = 0.82), short-service performance (F(1, 38) = 181.20, p < 0.001, ηp2 = 0.83), and long-service performance (F(1, 38) = 210.50, p < 0.001, ηp2 = 0.85). The Life Kinetics group demonstrated substantial improvements across all outcomes, whereas the control group showed minimal changes. Improvements were observed in both junior and intermediate athletes, with variations across outcomes. Exploratory EEG observations suggested a shift toward higher-frequency spectral activity following the intervention. Conclusions: Life Kinetics training was associated with significant improvements in cognitive function and service performance in badminton athletes. These findings support the integration of cognitive–motor training into athlete development programs. However, EEG findings should be interpreted cautiously due to methodological limitations, and future research using larger samples and advanced neuroimaging techniques is warranted. © 2026 by the authors.
Sport Coaching College, Beijing Sport University, Beijing, 100084, China; Division of Sports Science and Physical Education, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China; Physical Education, Health and Recreation, Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia, Bandung, 40154, Indonesia; China Institute of Sport and Health Science, Beijing Sport University, Beijing, 100084, China; Laboratory of Sport Stress and Adaptation of General Administration of Sport, Beijing Sport University, Beijing, 100084, China
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