O efeito da prática de rugby e padel na velocidade de processamento, atenção e funções executivas

Abstract

Introduction: Physical exercise has been widely associated with cognitive benefits, particularly the regular practice of sport. There is a controversy regarding the effect of rugby on cognitive functioning, especially when compared to non-contact sports. In addition, there is a notable lack of studies analysing the effect of padel on cognitive functioning as a non-contact sport. In this context, this study aims to analyse the effect of rugby and padel on processing speed, attention and executive functions. Methods: Neuropsychological tests that examine processing speed, attention and executive functions were used, namely the Coding and Symbol Search subtests (WAISIII), and the Trail Making Test (A and B). The sample consisted of 64 male participants aged between 18 and 29, distributed in three groups: amateur rugby players (n=21), amateur padel players (n=22) and non-athletes (n=21). Results: There were significant differences between rugby players and padel players in tests assessing processing speed and executive functions. There were also significant differences between padel players and non-athletes in processing speed, with no differences between rugby players and non-athletes in the domains assessed. Conclusion: This study confirms the positive effect of practising padel (a non-contact sport) on the cognitive abilities of athletes, particularly processing speed, when compared to rugby (a contact sport) and non-athletes.

Date of Award	19 Dec 2024
Original language	Portuguese
Awarding Institution	Universidade Católica Portuguesa
Supervisor	Filipa Ribeiro (Supervisor) & Inês Saraiva Ferreira (Supervisor)