The executive functions
For a long time, the attributes of strength, speed, endurance and technique were considered to be decisive characteristics in sport, which were used to assess talent. In top-level sport, however, it is now the case that many are equally good at these skills. This is why cognition has moved to the forefront.
The difference in information processing speed offers great potential for improvement and is particularly important in football. As a player, you are constantly put under pressure. In order to escape from these, it is important to assess them quickly and correctly. The executive functions are responsible for this.
The executive functions can be divided into three different basic functions:
1. Working memory
The working memory records the information that a player perceives and constantly updates it and combines it with previously collected experiences. With so many external stimuli, the player has to choose what he wants to focus on.
- Planned action
- Reflect on courses of action
- Set goals
2. Inhibition
Inhibition is the suppression of impulses, both emotional and motor. For example, deciding against the planned pass and in favor of dribbling due to a new game situation.
- Control impulses
- Control frustration
- Set priorities
- Draw attention
3. Cognitive flexibility
Cognitive flexibility describes the interaction between working memory and inhibition. People who are cognitively flexible do not stick to decisions they have made, but can change these decisions based on new information.
- make decisions
- Attitude to something new
- Change perspectives
My opponent is blocking certain passing routes. How quickly do I react to this and change my game? Do I learn after two bad passes or only after ten? Anyone who has ever been cautioned for complaining knows where the inhibition of emotions comes into play in football.
When two players have the same physical attributes, talent scouts often choose the one who makes the better decisions.
How do I train executive functions?
By combining hat or vest colors and changing meanings, players learn to suppress habits and be open to new information. This is exactly the method used in training with RESWITCH.
Author: Jonas Kumpan
