In sports, its called “The Zone”- That magical land of Oz where everything falls into place. These are moments when athletes put it all together, mentally and physically. Performance is superb, transcending ordinary levels of play with little conscious effort. The moments are rare but when they happen athletes reach their closest level of perfection.

Many athletes know that intense practice, physical conditioning as well as imagery and mental awareness are key parts to improve performance. Yet, sometimes that is not enough. Recent neurological testing make it possible to find “The Zone” more frequently and give athletes increased periods of optimal performances.

Physical Therapist and Psychologist are trying to provide these services through biofeedback (neurofeedback). These procedures are based on brainwave measurements which help athletes find their own individual “Zone”.

What the brain can do on its own is amazing enough but through this testing and specialized training we can create new levels of athletic abilities. Neurofeedback which has been around for years in now being enhanced and in turn changing our potential as human activity performers.

Feedback is the process of learning. For example shooting hoops--when the ball goes slightly to the right the athlete compensates more to the left to improve how often the ball goes in the hoop.

Biofeedback is the result of neurological body information. When we look in the mirror and see an image we can change that image through grooming. Neurofeedback takes this information a step further by using an EMG electromylograph). This testing show what stimulates the brain more for each individual to enhance their “Zone” performance.

Alpha is the wave state of relaxation, this is the neutral state and the switching center into Halpha (high alpha) which is believed to be the area of the “Zone”. These levels make it able for us to focus with more accuracy and optimal levels of function therefore enhancing our level of athletic abilities.

Stimulating the brain through more balance, coordination and visual focus exercising enhance, widen and challenge us for a better performance. During these types of activities we can establish “Zone” goals. Upon continued training of this kind one can develop a subjective feeling and know when you are at your “Zone”. In a sense you are creating an artificial neurological loop to improve certain body processes.

This neurofeedback paradigm is a potent and almost pure form of operant conditioning learning level. This can also stimulate the CNS (Central Nervous System—brain and spinal cord) and ANS (Autonomic Nervous System—heart, lungs, circulation) systems of the body to enhance these functional levels. CNS functions are useful for striated muscles and help rehab injured ones. ANS functions are used to control heart rate and blood pressure as well as respiratory functions.