How ball juggling training affects executive function, across the lifespan: Narrative review

ABSTRACTBackground:Juggling is a complex coordinative skill integrating visuospatial processing, prediction, bimanual control, and continuous performance monitoring. These characteristics make it a theoretically relevant motor–cognitive activity with potential implications for executive and related cognitive functions. However, it remains unclear whether physical ball-juggling practice leads to measurable cognitive benefits when assessed using standardized cognitive tests.Objective:To synthesize and critically evaluate available evidence on the effects of physical ball-juggling practice on cognitive function, with a primary focus on executive function, in healthy populations.Methods:A targeted narrative search was conducted in the Web of Science Core Collection. Eligible studies included empirical interventions involving physically performed ball juggling and reporting cognitive outcomes assessed with standardized performance-based tests. Given the sparsity and heterogeneity of the literature, a narrative synthesis approach was adopted.Results:Only three intervention studies met the inclusion criteria. Reported effects were modest and domain-specific, mainly involving visuospatial processing and attention-related measures. No study directly assessed executive function using comprehensive, domain-specific executive tasks.Conclusions:Despite strong theoretical plausibility, direct evidence supporting executive-function benefits of juggling practice is limited, reflecting under-investigation rather than clear absence of effects. Further well-designed studies are needed.