Exploring working memory: a descriptive study in a simple of athletes

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Published: 2026-04-01

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M.ª Dolores González Fernández
Universidade de A Coruña
Spain
https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0144-2428
Mª Pilar Vieiro Iglesias
Universidade de A Coruña
Spain
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1683-2894
María C. Bao-Fente
Universidade de A Coruña
Spain
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8626-4714
Vol. 12 No. 2 (2026), Original papers, pages 1-16

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.17979/sportis.2026.12.2.12825
Submitted: 2025-11-25 Published: 2026-04-01
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Abstract

Sports performance requires cognitive functions such as Working Memory (WM) since it is an essential cognitive function in the processing, maintenance, and updating of relevant information during task execution. Its role is fundamental in decision-making, attentional control, and adaptation to the changing environments typical of sports practice. In this context, the aim of this study was to compare WM in a sample of athletes. A total of 50 athletes (25 women and 25 men) from different disciplines and sports levels were evaluated. For the assessment, the Reading Span Test (RST) by Daneman and Carpenter (1980) was used, which engages the central executive, as well as the Digit Span test in both forward and backward order (Wechsler, 2008), which engages lower-level processes. The results show few significant differences based on gender, sport, and competitive level. No significant correlations were found between the different variables. Despite the lack of significance, trends with significant implications  for the design of mental training programs involving cognitive processes such as working memory are observed . They also highlight the need for specific instruments that allow for the development of assessments and interventions more tailored to the cognitive particularities of athletes.

Keywords:

working memory, athletics, sports performance, executive processes

Article Details

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