Quarterback season 1: What is neurofeedback?

Kirk Cousins, the starting quarterback for the Minnesota Vikings, knows all too well the pressures and demands that come with being a prominent figure in the NFL. From a health perspective, maintaining peak performance as a quarterback requires immense dedication and careful management. Cousins understands that his physical and mental well-being is paramount to his success on the field — something that viewers get a first-hand look at in the new Netflix original series Quarterback. 

To stay at the peak of his skills, Cousins must prioritize proper nutrition, rigorous training, and sufficient rest. He diligently works with trainers and nutritionists to optimize his diet and maintain a strong physique. Additionally, he engages in regular workouts to enhance his strength, agility, and endurance, while also fine-tuning his throwing mechanics.

In the fourth episode of Quarterback, Cousins mentions using neurofeedback as part of his NFL training as a tool to train his brain, but what exactly is neurofeedback?

What is neurofeedback?

Neurofeedback, also known as EEG biofeedback, is a non-invasive technique that aims to provide real-time information about the brain’s electrical activity to individuals, allowing them to learn self-regulation of their brainwave patterns. It involves using sensors to measure the electrical activity of the brain, typically through an electroencephalogram (EEG), and providing feedback to the individual in the form of visual or auditory signals.

During a neurofeedback session, the individual engages in specific activities or mental tasks while observing their brainwave activity on a computer screen or listening to auditory cues. The feedback is designed to guide the individual toward desired brainwave patterns associated with improved cognitive function, emotional regulation, or performance.

The goal of neurofeedback is to train the brain to self-regulate and optimize its functioning. It has been used in various applications, including addressing conditions and improving cognitive abilities and sports performance assisting with the ability to remain focused — which is something Couins mentions when talking about neurofeedback.

Quarterback season 1 is streaming now on Netflix.