Abstract
Movement time (MT) is one of the most important variables influencing the way we control our movements. A few previous studies have generally found that MT reduces with reaction time testing during exercise. However, limited evidence exists concerning change in MT following an acute bout of exercise. Our purpose was to investigate the effect of an acute bout of aerobic exercise on movement time as assessed by a Fitts’ Law task. We also sought to determine if exercise would further lower MT during the more difficult task conditions compared with rest. Nineteen (12 male, 7 female) volunteers (19–28 yrs) completed a computerized paired serial pointing task to measure movement time before and after rest (R) and an acute bout of moderate aerobic exercise (E) using a within subjects crossover design. Comparisons between exercise and rest conditions were made to determine if there were differences in movement time. Exercise significantly reduced MT compared with rest. Movement time was reduced by an average of 208 ms following exercise compared with 108 ms following rest. Exercise did not further lower MT during the more difficult task conditions. These results suggest that an acute bout of aerobic exercise reduces movement time which is an important component of motor control. Further studies are needed to determine the duration of the effect as well as the optimum duration and intensity of exercise.
Highlights
Movement time (MT) is a fundamental variable that reflects how movements are completed
There were no outliers in the data, as assessed by inspection of a boxplot
Testing if exercise would reduce MT during the more difficult task conditions compared with rest
Summary
Movement time (MT) is a fundamental variable that reflects how movements are completed. MT is an inherent characteristic of motor control, but the principles underlying its formation (neural or computational) are in practice, poorly understood [1]. Slower movements could be costly to motor control for several reasons including delays in task achievement, reward acquisition and the potential monopolization of a significant amount of neural and attentional resources [1]. The brain’s energy supply determines its information processing power and the processing of sensorimotor input by the CNS comes at a metabolic expense [2]. The attentional cost associated with slow-paced movement could interfere with the ability to achieve other tasks [2, 3].
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
