From Cerebellar Activation and Connectivity to Cognition: The Quadrato Motor Training

Background: In the context of physical activity, neuroscience is increasingly recognizing the importance of the cerebellum, for both motor control and cognitive learning. Nevertheless, the relationship between training-induced electrophysiological and structural changes in humans has yet to be established.

Methods: Here we present a model linking physical activity and cerebellar function to cognitive improvement, via neuronal synchronization. We then suggest that sensorimotor training may provide an optimal paradigm to test the proposed model. We review supporting evidence of Quadrato Motor Training (QMT), a sensorimotor training which was recently found to increase creativity, reflectivity, reading and attention (Ben-Soussan, Berkovich-Ohana, Glicksohn, 2015).

Discussion: Subsequently, we discuss the possible mechanisms through which QMT may exert its beneficial effects on cognition, focusing on cerebellar alpha activity as a possible mediating mechanism allowing cognitive improvement and, molecular and anatomical changes. Conclusion: Using the example of QMT research, we emphasize the importance of investigating physical activity utilizing a multidisciplinary approach, and its implications for healthy brain development, healthy aging and education.