"Neuroscience, also known as Neural Science, is the study of how the nervous system develops, its structure, and what it does. Neuroscientists focus on the brain and its impact on behavior and cognitive functions."
-Department of Neuroscience, Georgetown University
So you can see what neuroscientist’s research and focus on is very important to an athlete. One of the most important areas of neuroscience research is in what's called "neuroplasticity".
The phrase "Use it or lose it" applies to muscles in our bodies as well as to neural
The Simple Science Behind Why Mental Skill Training Works
The Baseball Observer - Mental Skills Issue
10
The phrase "Use it or lose it" applies to muscles in our bodies as well as to neural pathways and connections in our brains. Scientists agree that the overwhelming evidence shows - challenging yourself both physically and mentally boosts brain power.
Positive experiences, exercise, adequate sleep and proper nutrition, have been shown to strengthen brain cell connections and also grow new brain cells. Stronger connections and more brain cells have been linked to better cognitive performance (mental skills).
Conversely, stressful experiences, sleep deprivation and poor nutrition have all been shown to reduce the strength of connections and the growth of new brain cells. Therefore both cognitive performance and memory are worse.