Tired Mind, Tired Body
It's well known that cognitive function and physical performance are connected, but research is still needed to uncover all of the complexities within this relationship. Numerous studies indicate at least one aspect of cognitive function, mental fatigue, can impact physical performance. 1 Mental fatigue is a psychological and biological state caused by engaging in a cognitively demanding task for an extended period of time. 2 Interestingly, studies on mental fatigue have not shown a decrease in physical capabilities, but rather an increase in perceived effort. In other words, after a demanding cognitive task, a physical activity seems harder to perform. 2
Mindful Athletes
Athletes are looking for ways to boost their sport performance – or decrease perceived effort – through cognitive enhancement. Many Olympic competitors have spoken to the substantial mental game in sports , typically in reference to blocking out distractions, building focus and reducing stress during competition. 3 Trainers have long promoted several organic methods of harnessing mentality to perform physically, including meditation, yoga and visualization of physical accomplishment. 3
Nootropics for Enhanced Physical Performance
There's new interest in supplements that support the mind-body connection, specifically in the areas of focus, mood and sleep. 4 These cognition-enhancing supplements, or "nootropics," are marketed toward athletes who use coordination and agility in their sport, as well as to active young adults looking for overall wellness. This growing category led us to research how Neumentix™, a cognition-enhancing spearmint extract, influences physical performance.
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