Effects of immersive training on sports perceptual-cognitive skills: A systematic literature review

Abstract

Immersive training using virtual reality (VR), 360° video, and CAVE environments shows potential for enhancing perceptual-cognitive skills in sports; however, evidence remains limited and methodologies heterogeneous. This systematic review synthesised quantitative controlled interventions examining immersive training in healthy participants, focusing on measurement tools and study quality. Fourteen studies met inclusion criteria. Methodological quality was evaluated using the Downs and Black checklist. Extracted data included participant demographics, sport discipline and expertise, immersive technology type, training characteristics, targeted cognitive domains, outcome measures, main findings, subjective evaluations, and transfer effects. The assessed cognitive domains included: higher-order processes (n = 9; decision-making, anticipation), attention (n = 3; gaze control, visual search), processing speed (n = 3), and executive function (n = 2; inhibitory control). Behavioural outcomes were commonly used, with three studies employing cognitive assessments (Stroop and Vienna tests). Moderate-to-large effect sizes suggest that immersive training may enhance decision-making and processing speed. However, heterogeneity in study design and limitations in reporting, validity, and statistical power highlight the need for rigorous RCTs with cognitive and transfer measures to clarify the effectiveness and underlying mechanisms of immersive perceptual-cognitive training in sport.