cc_byKrupitzer, ChristianNaber, JensStauffert, Jan-PhilippMayer, JanSpielmann, JanEhmann, PaulBoci, NoelBürkle, MauriceHo, AndréKomorek, ClemensHeinickel, FelixKounev, SamuelBecker, ChristianLatoschik, Marc Erich2024-09-032024-09-032022https://hohpublica.uni-hohenheim.de/handle/123456789/16585https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2022.754732Goal: This paper presents an immersive Virtual Reality (VR) system to analyze and train Executive Functions (EFs) of soccer players. EFs are important cognitive functions for athletes. They are a relevant quality that distinguishes amateurs from professionals. Method: The system is based on immersive technology, hence, the user interacts naturally and experiences a training session in a virtual world. The proposed system has a modular design supporting the extension of various so-called game modes. Game modes combine selected game mechanics with specific simulation content to target particular training aspects. The system architecture decouples selection/parameterization and analysis of training sessions via a coaching app from an Unity3D-based VR simulation core. Monitoring of user performance and progress is recorded by a database that sends the necessary feedback to the coaching app for analysis. Results: The system is tested for VR-critical performance criteria to reveal the usefulness of a new interaction paradigm in the cognitive training and analysis of EFs. Subjective ratings for overall usability show that the design as VR application enhances the user experience compared to a traditional desktop app; whereas the new, unfamiliar interaction paradigm does not negatively impact the effort for using the application. Conclusion: The system can provide immersive training of EF in a fully virtual environment, eliminating potential distraction. It further provides an easy-to-use analyzes tool to compare user but also an automatic, adaptive training mode.engSports analyticsVirtual worlds training simulationsTraining of cognitive functionsExecutive functionsHealthcareMachine learningTraining790Article