Focus of attention and online demonstration effects on temporal error and muscle activation

Abstract

Abstract The purpose of the present study was to examine whether there would be performance differences between external and internal focus of attention conditions and an online demonstration condition, and if these differences would be observed at a neuromuscular level through EMG analysis, in addition to traditional outcome measures. We hypothesized that under the demonstration condition participants would perform better than under external and internal focus conditions. We also hypothesized that demonstration condition would show smaller EMG activity than external and internal focus conditions. Furthermore, we hope to replicate the benefits of external focus in relation to internal focus, both in outcome and product measures. Six male participants performed a bilateral leg extension under internal focus of attention, external focus of attention and online demonstration conditions. Muscular contractions goal times were set for concentric muscle action (4 seconds) and eccentric muscle action (2 seconds). An electrogoniometer was used to record muscular activation (production measures), and temporal error was used to observe performance (outcome measures). Results showed that online demonstration condition obtained better performance than external focus condition and a reduced muscular activation. However, differences between internal focus and the other experimental conditions were not found. These findings advance in the understanding mechanisms underpining the focus of attention, such as proposed by Constrained Action Hypothesis.