At Level Up Athletics in Wheeling, WV, we believe that athletic training does more than build stronger bodies—it shapes sharper minds. Our programs are designed to empower young athletes, not only enhancing their physical performance but also improving their ability to focus and learn. Emerging research supports what we’ve seen firsthand: physical activity, especially balance-focused training, can significantly impact cognitive functions critical for academic and personal success.
Dr. Daniel G. Rogers from Philadelphia Integrative Psychiatry highlights this connection in his insightful blog post, “Balancing Act: How Balance Training Benefits Children with ADHD.” He explains that activities engaging the cerebellum—the brain region responsible for motor control—also strengthen neural pathways linked to attention and behavior. A study he cites found that children with ADHD who combined balance training with medication showed greater improvements in focus and behavior compared to those using medication alone. These children also needed lower medication doses, underscoring the power of physical activity as a complementary tool.
At Level Up Athletics, we see similar benefits in all our young athletes, not just those with ADHD. Our training programs incorporate dynamic exercises like agility drills, balance board challenges, and sport-specific movements that demand coordination and precision. These activities stimulate the brain, fostering skills like concentration, problem-solving, and emotional regulation. Whether it’s mastering a soccer dribble, stabilizing on a single-leg stance, or navigating an obstacle course, our athletes are training their minds as much as their bodies.
For example, our soccer and basketball camps emphasize complex movements that require athletes to process multiple sensory inputs—visual cues from teammates, proprioceptive feedback from their bodies, and quick decision-making under pressure. These tasks mirror the balance training Dr. Rogers describes, engaging the cerebellum and prefrontal cortex to enhance focus and executive function. Parents often share that their kids return from our sessions not only more confident in their athletic abilities but also more attentive in the classroom.
We also prioritize fun and variety to keep young athletes engaged. From martial arts-inspired drills to skateboarding clinics, our programs tap into the natural energy and curiosity of youth, making training feel like play. This approach aligns with research showing that complex, enjoyable physical activities are particularly effective for cognitive development. By creating a supportive environment where kids can challenge themselves and grow, we help them build skills that translate far beyond the field or court.
At Level Up Athletics, we’re committed to holistic development. Athletic training isn’t just about scoring goals or winning games—it’s about equipping young athletes with the mental tools to succeed in school and life. We’re proud to draw inspiration from experts like Dr. Rogers and the team at Philadelphia Integrative Psychiatry, whose work reminds us that movement is medicine for the mind.
Ready to help your young athlete level up? Join us at Level Up Athletics in Wheeling, WV, and see how our programs can boost their focus, learning, and performance. Contact us today to learn more about our training camps and classes!
Credit: Dr. Daniel G. Rogers, Philadelphia Integrative Psychiatry, “Balancing Act: How Balance Training Benefits Children with ADHD”