Neuromotor behavior and exercise

In our PROGRESS study, published in Frontiers in Aging, we are investigating an innovative prevention program for nursing homes. Using a cluster-randomized, controlled crossover design, we are examining the influence of behavioral and environmental prevention measures promoting physical activity on the physical activity and functional ability of residents. The goal is to establish everyday, sustainable exercise promotion in nursing facilities.
 

In the summer semester of 2025, students of the Bachelor's program Human Movement in Sports and Exercise had the unique opportunity to apply their theoretical knowledge directly to sports practice. As part of the seminar "Physical Training in Elite Sports – Tailored Physical Training for Female Rugby Players," they worked closely with the Rugby Tourists Münster, a women’s rugby sevens team with one clear goal: qualifying for the German Championships in August.
 

Our current study, published in the Journal of Affective Disorders, provides important findings: A better fitness level correlates positively with cognitive control in patients with depression. The study conducted on 66 patients shows that this positive effect is independent of the severity of the depression. The results emphasize the potential of physical exercise to improve the cognitive health of people with depression.

At the 30th Congress of the European College of Sport Science, Matthias Hendricks, PD Dr. Dieter Kutz and Prof. Dr. E. Eils presented their current research findings and received valuable feedback from the specialist community. Prof. Dr. E. Eils also chaired several events. The conference offered numerous opportunities for scientific exchange and networking with national and international experts in the field of international sports science.
 

In sometimes difficult climatic conditions, the Neuromotor & Training department's running team put in a strong performance at this year's Leonardo Campus Run, and were rewarded with the obligatory isotonic cold drink afterwards.

The Institute of Sports Science in the Department of Neuromotor Skills and Training at the University of Münster is seeking to fill the position of Research Assistant (E 13 TV-L) in the third-party funded GRASB project as soon as possible, 01.10.2025. Subject to the approval of funds, a part-time position (65%) is offered for the duration of the project until 31.08.2027. You will find the detailed information here

We are seeking motivated students with an interest in experimental research on multitasking. This bachelor’s/master’s thesis provides a valuable opportunity to gain hands-on experience in psychological research using a driving simulator and classical laboratory settings to explore behavior.
If you’re curious about taking on this thesis project, feel free to get in touch with:
Piesie Akwasi Gyimah Asuako
 

This study used structural equation modelling (SEM) to investigate whether retinal vascular density (VD) is related to individual executive function (EF) performance in healthy older adults, with haematocrit as a mediator. The results showed that there was no significant direct or indirect correlation between VD and EF, but there was a significant regression of haematocrit on EF performance. The authors concluded that changes in retinal VD are not a suitable parameter for predicting cognitive decline in healthy older adults, while higher haematocrit levels appear to have a positive effect on EF.
In: Experimental Brain Research