Meta-analysis of task- and mechanism-dependent effects of net sports on N200 and P300 components.

OBJECTIVE

Substantial between-study heterogeneity has hindered consensus regarding how long-term net sports experience modulates N200 and P300 components, and the underlying neural circuit mechanisms remain poorly characterized. This systematic review and meta-analysis (PROSPERO: CRD420261421340) aimed to quantify task- and consciousness-dependent associations between net sports (badminton, table tennis, and tennis) and ERP components, and to identify key sources of between-study heterogeneity.

METHODS

Ten eligible cross-sectional and intervention studies published between 2016 and 2025 were synthesized using random-effects models. A mechanism-driven subgroup framework was applied, stratified by cognitive function, level of conscious processing, and corresponding neural circuits. Publication bias, heterogeneity, and sensitivity were systematically assessed, and the certainty of evidence was evaluated using the GRADE approach.

RESULTS

The pooled effect size for P300 amplitude was statistically significant [SMD = 2.22, 95% CI (0.62, 3.82), p = 0.006], with considerable heterogeneity (I 2 = 96%) and evidence of publication bias. Subgroup analysis identified a robust positive effect in conscious spatial cognition tasks (SMD = 1.74, p < 0.0001) and an exploratory large effect in table tennis-specific unconscious inhibition tasks (SMD = 6.42, p < 0.0001). No overall significant effect was found for N200 amplitude (SMD = -0.86, p = 0.24); however, bidirectional modulation was observed: amplitudes decreased in conflict monitoring tasks but increased in active response inhibition tasks.

CONCLUSION

Net sports are associated with task-dependent modulation of N200 and P300 components, which may be mediated by distinct cognitive control circuits, rather than producing a uniform pattern of enhancement or reduction. These findings help reconcile the prior contradiction between the neural efficiency and resource enhancement hypotheses, and refine the theoretical framework of experience-dependent neuroplasticity in open-skill sports, providing candidate electrophysiological indicators and a theoretical basis for designing targeted motor-cognitive training programs, which require further validation in intervention studies.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/view/CRD420261421340, identifier PROSPERO (CRD420261421340).