| Motor Intelligence: An Emerging Concept in Sports and Health Sciences |
| Paper ID : 1233-SPORTCONGRESS (R1) |
| Authors |
|
maedeh ahmadpour *1, mahmoud sheikh2 1PhD Student, Department of Sports Behavioral and Cognitive Sciences, Faculty of Sports and Health Sciences, University of Tehran, 2Behavioral and Cognitive Sports Science Group, Faculty of Sport Sciences and Wellness, University of Tehran |
| Abstract |
| Abstract Introduction: This narrative review aims to synthesize contemporary theoretical, empirical, and technological developments concerning motor intelligence as a multidimensional construct integrating cognition, emotion, and movement in sports and health sciences. Methods: A descriptive–analytical narrative review was conducted to consolidate studies published between 2020 and 2025. Databases including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and SportDiscus were systematically searched using keywords such as motor intelligence, cognitive–motor integration, embodied learning, and intelligent movement. Inclusion criteria focused on peer-reviewed research addressing motor intelligence in human sports and health contexts. A thematic synthesis and conceptual mapping approach were applied to identify definitions, theoretical models, and applications across neuroscience, psychology, kinesiology, and rehabilitation. Results: Results show that motor intelligence extends traditional concepts of motor ability and coordination by integrating cognitive, perceptual, and emotional processes. In sports, it manifests as superior anticipation, decision-making, and adaptive control, reflecting efficient neural and perceptual mechanisms. In health sciences, intelligent movement promotes neuroplastic recovery, emotional regulation, and self-efficacy during rehabilitation. Empirical evidence demonstrates that perception–action coupling, embodied awareness, and environmental adaptability form the foundation of intelligent motor behavior. Emerging technologies such as motion-capture systems, neurofeedback, and AI-based analytics have improved the precision of assessment and intervention, allowing for individualized training and rehabilitation strategies that enhance cognitive–motor adaptability. Conclusion: Motor intelligence offers a unifying framework for understanding human movement as an adaptive, embodied, and intelligent system. Integrating insights from neuroscience, sports performance, and rehabilitation, it shifts practice toward perception-based, self-regulated, and technologically informed approaches. Future research should prioritize standardized definitions, longitudinal designs, and cross-disciplinary integration to fully operationalize and apply the concept across sports and health sciences. |
| Keywords |
| motor intelligence; embodied cognition; cognitive–motor integration; neuroplasticity; rehabilitation; |
| Status: Abstract Accepted (Poster Presentation) |
