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Are Attention Exercises Effective? 

Author: Phoebe Carter, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Yes, attention exercises can be a highly effective way to strengthen focus, especially when practised consistently. Just like physical workouts build muscle, mental exercises train the brain’s ability to sustain attention, resist distractions, and return to the task at hand. 

Why Concentration Training Matters 

Our brains are constantly bombarded by input. Over time, this weakens natural focus. Concentration training uses targeted exercises to rewire attention pathways, improving both short-term focus and long-term mental stamina. 

Here’s how brain focus activities can help: 

Mindfulness practices:  

Focusing on the breath or body sensations helps build present-moment awareness. 

Memory games:  

Puzzles like Sudoku or memory cards challenge attention and information retention. 

Task timers:  

Using Pomodoro or time-blocking methods trains the brain to stay engaged in short, focused bursts. 

Selective listening:  

Listening to an audiobook while blocking out background noise boosts auditory attention. 

Visual tracking:  

Following an object on screen or page strengthens visual focus. 

These exercises are most effective when used daily; even for just 10 minutes. They can be especially helpful for individuals with ADHD or cognitive fatigue, giving the brain a gentle but consistent workout. 

As with any training, the key is repetition and patience. 

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations to better understand how brain imaging can inform ADHD treatment.  

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to ADHD difficulty concentrating.  

Phoebe Carter, MSc
Author

Phoebe Carter is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and a Bachelor’s in Applied Psychology. She has experience working with both children and adults, conducting psychological assessments, developing individualized treatment plans, and delivering evidence-based therapies. Phoebe specialises in neurodevelopmental conditions such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), ADHD, and learning disabilities, as well as mood, anxiety, psychotic, and personality disorders. She is skilled in CBT, behaviour modification, ABA, and motivational interviewing, and is dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care to individuals of all ages.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy. 

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS, author and a reviewer for my patient advice - mypatientadvice.co.uk
Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS
Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.