About this Research Topic

Background

Neural-adaptation training paradigms (NATP), including mirror therapy (MT), motor imagery training (MIT), and intermanual transfer (IT), are increasingly utilized in sports and rehabilitation settings to enhance motor skill acquisition and reacquisition. These strategies aim to induce neural adaptations without direct physical exercise on the targeted limbs. Despite the moderate to large effectiveness reported in many studies, some research indicates unfavorable effects when these strategies are used individually or in combination. This inconsistency highlights the need for a systematic investigation into the effects of NATP, their underlying neuromechanisms, and their application in both clinical and athletic contexts. By addressing these gaps, we can refine these paradigms to optimize training outcomes for practitioners such as coaches, physical educators, and clinicians.

This research topic aims to further explore the efficacy of Neural-Adaptation Training Paradigms (NATP) in both sports and rehabilitation settings, while advancing our understanding of the underlying neuromechanisms. Specifically, we seek to answer questions regarding the impact of NATP on motor skill acquisition and reacquisition in both healthy and clinical populations. Additionally, we aim to elucidate the neuromechanisms that drive these adaptations, thereby providing a more comprehensive understanding that can inform the development of more effective training and intervention programs.

To gather further insights into the efficacy and underlying mechanisms of NATP, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:

· Studies on neural-adaptation training paradigms (NATP), including mirror therapy, motor imagery training, and bilateral transfer.
· Research examining the neuromechanisms underlying NATP.
· Effects of NATP on enhancing motor skill acquisition and reacquisition in both healthy and disabled populations.
· Comparative studies on the effectiveness of individual versus combined NATP strategies.
· Development and validation of new training protocols and methodologies for NATP.
· Systematic reviews and meta-analyses on the efficacy of NATP in various settings.

Article types and fees

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Brief Research Report
• Case Report
• Clinical Trial
• Conceptual Analysis
• Data Report
• Editorial
• General Commentary
• Hypothesis and Theory
• Methods
• ... View all formats

Articles that are accepted for publication by our external editors following rigorous peer review incur a publishing fee charged to Authors, institutions, or funders.

Article types

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Brief Research Report
• Case Report
• Clinical Trial
• Conceptual Analysis
• Data Report
• Editorial
• General Commentary
• Hypothesis and Theory
• Methods
• Mini Review
• Opinion
• Original Research
• Perspective
• Policy and Practice Reviews
• Policy Brief
• Registered Report
• Review
• Study Protocol
• Systematic Review
• Technology and Code

Keywords: motor imagery training, mirror therapy, and bilateral transfer, motor learning/control and rehabilitation, Sport

Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.

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