Shedding Light on a New Psychology of Movement and Exercise

Abstract

Let's consider the issues of exercise and cognitive function from a different angle, for instance, by moving from a sitting position to standing. Seeing something from different perspectives not only reflects our cognitive flexibility [1] but also has a direct impact on executive performance. Interestingly, some recent studies have reported a smaller Stroop effect when standing than sitting [2-3] or stepping backward [4]. This evidences that body posture enhances selective attention and cognitive control. Through these examples, the assumption presented here is that our daily cognitive functioning is closely linked to our sensorimotor present and vice-versa. Our abilities to move are cognitively vital. Hence a call for a new psychology of movement and, by extension, of exercise emerges [2], with consequences for how to address the role and the effects of movement and exercise on cognitive function.