The IM program ‘trains the brain’ to plan, sequence and process information more effectively through repetition of interactive exercises. During the IM training a trainee wears stereo headphones and listens to special sounds that the IM computer software program generates to guide the training process.

Motion sensing triggers, connected to the computer via cables, relay information about the trainee’s performance to the computer during training. One trigger is worn like glove on either hand. It senses exactly when the hand makes contact when tapped during training. The other trigger is placed on the floor, and senses exactly when the trainee taps either a toe or heel upon it.

Thirteen different hand and foot exercises are performed while auditory guide tones direct the individual to match the metronome beat. The IM program analyzes the accuracy of each tap as it happens and instantaneously creates a sound that the trainee hears in the headphones. They learn to focus all their attention on the steady metronome beat sound in their headphones, without being interrupted by thoughts around them. IM trainees experience maintaining precise focus for longer and longer periods of time. The ability to maintain focus becomes automated. The mental control learned through repetitively successful planning and sequencing experiences is rarely forgotten. Upon completion of IM training (following approximately a total of 35, 000 repetitions) most trainees find it significantly easier to learn new complex cognitive and physical tasks.

The difference between the individual’s response and the computer generated beat is measured in milliseconds (ms.) and a score is provided. A low ms. score indicates improved timing and overall performance. The program consists of 12 or 15 one-hour sessions, which can be completed in 3 to 5 weeks. Additional sessions may be necessary and is decided on an individual basis.

What are the Benefits?

The IM program has been shown to produce significant results in children and adults with a wide range of physical and cognitive difficulties including ADHD. The March/April 2001 issue of the
American Journal of Occupational Therapy identified five core areas of statistically significant improvements gained through the IM training program:

• Attention and Focus

• Motor Control and Coordination

• Language Processing

• Reading and Math Fluency

• Ability to Regulate Aggression/Impulsivity

The goal of IM training is to bring lasting improvements in an individuals overall planning and sequencing and attentional capacities. The IM millisecond scores are the benchmarks of the level of mastery achieved, not how many sessions or repetitions have been completed. Every individual is different, and each has a unique set of pre-existing capabilities and timing related “habits”. Therefore, no single IM training program or schedule can meet the specific needs of all individuals. 

Ongoing studies continue to validate correlations between Interactive Metronome and academic achievement in mathematics, language, reading, and attention to task. The IM program has also proven to be a powerful tool for improving both the physical and mental aspects of athletic performance.

Who Can Benefit from Going Through the IM Program?

IM's adaptive design can be used with a broad spectrum population 'developmentally' 6 years of age and older. This may include but not limited to:

• Learning Disabilities

• ADD/ADHD

• PDD

• Traumatic Brain Injury

• Aspergers Syndrome

• Language Deficits (poor listening comprehension, poor verbal expression, poor reading comprehension, motor and sequencing aspects of language, etc.)

• Attention and Motor Coordination Difficulties

• Poor organizational skills, poor memory, poor fine motor skills, etc.

• Motor Planning and Sequencing Difficulties

• Parkinson’s Disease

As with any intervention, the varying degrees of severity will indicate appropriateness. Is Maintenance Necessary After Completing The IM Program?  Case studies monitored over the past five to 6 years indicate that lasting residual effects may be obtained after an individual completes the IM program. Patients tested 6 and 12 months post training, exhibit nearly identical performance on the IM as achieved during the training process. Further long-term effect studies are underway.