Effectiveness of Visual Training Interventions on Reaction Time in Athletes: A Systematic Review

To systematically evaluate the scientific evidence supporting NeuroTracker as a perceptual-cognitive training tool, examining both (1) whether it trains the cognitive functions claimed and (2) whether training transfers to other domains, particularly real-world performance.

NeuroTracker consistently produces improvements on the trained 3D-MOT task itself (robust task-specific learning). Near transfer evidence exists, but some study results are are inconsistent or limited by small samples or methodological weaknesses. Far transfer evidence is limited to only a small number of studies, with mixed outcomes—two of three far-transfer studies reported no significant effect. Methodological concerns of existing research include lack of preregistration, sample sizes, unmatched control groups, and inconsistent reporting of transfer outcomes. The authors also argue that the cognitive processes underlying 3D-MOT are complex and not fully aligned with some marketing claims.

To critically review emerging digital sports vision training (SVT) technologies, classify them into coherent categories, and evaluate the strength of empirical evidence supporting performance enhancement claims.

The review proposes a structured taxonomy dividing digital sports vision training into component skill training (e.g., perceptual–cognitive and sensorimotor tools) and naturalistic simulation-based approaches (e.g., stroboscopic and VR training), assessing evidence for each.

Perceptual–cognitive systems such as 3D-MOT demonstrate reliable sensitivity to athletic expertise and show emerging, though still developing, evidence for transfer to sport-specific performance metrics.

Intermittent visual occlusion training enhances motion sensitivity, anticipation, and visuomotor control under constrained conditions, with preliminary but variable evidence of sport performance benefits.

Eye-tracking research shows that training longer task-relevant fixations (Quiet Eye) can measurably improve accuracy and consistency in precision sports tasks.

Virtual reality platforms offer immersive, scenario-based training opportunities, but empirical validation of sustained real-world transfer remains limited relative to their growing adoption.

To synthesize evidence from studies investigating perceptual-cognitive training in interactive sports settings, assessing both practice architectures and transfer effects to sport performance.

Systematic literature review of peer-reviewed studies applying perceptual-cognitive training (e.g., video-based tasks, dynamic attention tasks, MOT paradigms) to athletes, with outcomes categorized by level of transfer (near, intermediate, far).

Training programs consistently produce improvements on trained tasks (near transfer), but evidence for broader performance transfer is very limited due to lack of studies. Variability in task specificity, outcome metrics, and study design complicates generalizability. However, one NeuroTracker study was deemed to provide reliable evidence of far transfer to elite sports performance. The review emphasizes that future research should focus on critical factors to assure transfer of perceptual–cognitive training interventions.

To synthesize current evidence on the multi-object tracking (MOT) paradigm as both an assessment tool and a cognitive training intervention, with a focus on transfer effects and underlying perceptual-cognitive mechanisms.

The authors reviewed experimental and applied studies using MOT and 3D-MOT (including NeuroTracker) paradigms across cognitive science, sports, aging, and clinical research contexts. The review evaluated task parameters, cognitive mechanisms engaged, and evidence for near and far transfer outcomes following MOT training.

The review found consistent evidence supporting near-transfer effects of MOT training on attentional processes, processing speed, and visuospatial tracking. Evidence for far transfer to broader executive functions, sport performance, and real-world tasks was more variable and dependent on study design and contextual factors. The authors conclude that while MOT paradigms reliably engage core perceptual-cognitive systems, further research is needed to clarify mechanisms and optimize transfer to applied domains.

To assess the usefulness of NeuroTracker (3D-MOT) as a cognitive enhancement tool to overcome the common challenges associated with cognitive training products.

The author conducted a comprehensive review of current literature for cognitive enhancement tools, as well as the specific literature on NeuroTracker to probe its strengths and weaknesses as a research tool. Evidence was also examined for the cognitive domains that NeuroTracker addresses.

NeuroTracker was found to have broad scientific relevant for improving a number of cognitive domains, including information processing, attention, working memory, inhibition, and executive functions. Far transfer effects were found in the following human performance domains: visual information processing in healthy adults, biological motion processing in healthy aging subjects, on-field performance in soccer players, and in attention for populations with neurodevelopmental deficits. The author concluded, that while promising peer-reviewed research exists, more investigations are needed to robustly establish the beneficial effects of this method in the context of cognitive enhancement.