Visual & Vestibular
The visual system plays a critical role in sports performance. Skilled movement is not a spontaneous muscular response, but infact represents a sequence of complicated processes within the central nervous system. We absorb information from our surrounding environment through our senses, especially our eyes and process this information. This is crucial for spacial awareness, eye-hand-foot co-ordination, planning and decision making, focus and attention and reaction time
You may find that each eye is processing different data, this lack of visual input will affect your co-ordination, movement response and ultimately performance.
Visual system
To be able to perform at any level, your visual system must be in good working order. However, how many people actually train their eyes? Remember, the eyes are responsible for up to 80% of the input your brain requires to make a decision and movement. Below is a list of visual pathways that require training for your body to perform at its best. The eyes really do control the body.
Biomechanical visual skill assessments
Biomechanical visual skill assessments look at the varied movements and tasks your eye muscles must perform in order to get them working together as a pair. If one eye is slightly slow then you will be getting different information for your brain to process which means your decision making and motor movements will be compromised.
These assessments and training focus on enhancing the visual and motor skills needed for peak athletic performance, extending far beyond basic eyesight measurements. They examine how well athletes use their vision to detect and respond to stimuli. Effective sports vision training enhances both visual clarity and the brain’s ability to quickly interpret and act on visual information.
Vestibular system
The vestibular system, located in the inner ear, is vital for balance, spatial awareness, and coordinated movement. It works closely with the visual and proprioceptive systems, so dysfunction in the vestibular system can lead to visual disturbances, especially difficulty maintaining focus and clarity during head movements.
Vestibular training helps recalibrate and strengthen the system through:
Balance exercises, eye movement drills, head movement exercises and sport-specific posture exercises
In essence, the vestibular system supports optimal physical performance by ensuring that the brain can efficiently manage balance, orientation, and movement, which enhances overall control, precision, and reaction during complex physical activities.