Punctual physical activity and motor memory, the elements of interaction: Scoping Review

Scoping Review.

Abstract

Increasing evidence suggests a positive effect of acute exercise on motor memory consolidation. However, given the variety of experimental designs used in this field, the need to analyse the experimental designs characteristics and their influence on motor memory results has arisen. In this study, we conducted a systematic review of the literature in Scoping format to determine the variables that condition the acute exercise effects on motor memory. Two extensive searches were carried out in March 2021 and January 2022 following the criteria set out in the PRISMA protocol. We synthesized data from 37 studies and generated three main blocks of analysis: the factors that influence the results on motor memory (physical activity moderators, type of motor task and subject’s features), the direction and magnitude of the improvements and the methodological quality of the studies. From these blocks, we were able to deduce the variables that integrate the complex interaction between a physical activity bout and motor memory. These findings are aimed at facilitating and guiding the future interventions that seek to produce improvements in memory.