Complex movements showed patterns in brain activity, with uncertain meaning
A scoping review found recurring changes in some EEG frequency bands during and after complex movement. It did not establish improvements in cognition or health.
Based on the published abstract. The full paper may contain additional methods, results and limitations.
The 30-second takeaway
Complex whole-body movements were accompanied by a trend toward increased theta and alpha EEG activity in several brain regions. Findings in other frequency bands were inconsistent. These results describe electrical brain activity, and the abstract does not show that the changes translate into better thinking, learning or wellbeing for people performing the movements.
The studies differed considerably in design and movement type. This abstract-only account lacks participant details, effect sizes and clear comparison conditions, making it difficult to judge the consistency or practical meaning of the observed patterns.
Separating movement demands
The review focused on complex movements that require simultaneous information processing. Its motivation was to distinguish brain activity related to coordination demands from activity accompanying increased metabolism, which can occur together during endurance exercise.
A pattern without a benefit claim
The recurring theta and alpha findings appeared in frontal, central and parietal brain areas. The authors call for more consistent EEG methods and clearer descriptions of movement complexity to test what might explain differences between studies.
The original publication
Effects of complex whole-body movements on EEG activity: a scoping review.
Müller G, Salem A, Schöllhorn WI
Front Psychol · 2025
- PubMed ID
- 40823410
- Record checked
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