Banyan & Nomad

Balance Series

Divided Attention  


Divided attention is a fundamental concept that refers to the human's capacity to concentrate on multiple tasks at once.

It plays a crucial role in balance training as it tests the individual's cognitive function while performing physical activities.

The cognitive function is the ability to coordinate and process information and to use that information to adapt to one's environment.

As such, incorporating tasks that require the participant to walk and talk or perform other simultaneous tasks can improve their cognitive skills and balance.

Divided attention tasks help the participant practice their cognitive abilities, which are essential to daily activities requiring coordination and multi-tasking. For instance, walking and carrying a conversation or walking while holding a bag requires the coordination of both cognitive and motor abilities.

Therefore, incorporating divided attention tasks in balance training can improve the individual's overall physical and cognitive function.

Regarding balance training, incorporating tasks that require divided attention can be challenging and beneficial.

Some examples include walking on an uneven surface while holding an object or walking on a treadmill while performing math problems or answering questions.

These tasks challenge the individual to use both their cognitive and physical skills simultaneously, which can help improve their physical and mental abilities in the long term.

Incorporating tasks that require divided attention can effectively improve the cognitive function of individuals participating in balance training.

By testing their ability to focus on multiple tasks simultaneously, balance training participants can improve their overall coordination, multi-tasking abilities, and cognitive function, which are all essential for leading an active and healthy life