Executive functions in elite athletes – Comparing open-skill and closed-skill sports and considering the role of athletes' past involvement in both sport categories

Previous research documented differences in executive functions between elite athletes different sports. It was argued that sport disciplines with higher cognitive demands (i.e., open-skill) show better than less cognitively challenging closed-skill). In the current study, we aimed at detecting open-skill versus closed-skill sports and questioned role of their total involvement these until age 18 on functions. Seventy-five (45 males 30 females; Mage = 23.03 ± 4.41 years) from various were classified as open- or based they currently competed in. The conducted a series neuro-psychological tests measuring working memory, inhibition, flexibility (Design Fluency test, Trail Making Flanker task, 2-back task). Retrospective interviews assessed athletes' 18. MANCOVAs revealed performed measures memory flexibility. Generalized Linear Models displayed sports, greater 18, during tasks. results indicate extensive time spent can affect athletes. A high proved to be beneficial for functions, particular These findings suggest experiences demanding may cause benefits development