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.
Highlights
The focus of attention is a variable that affects motor performance and learning
Post hoc comparisons revealed that demonstration condition presented lower temporal error than external focus (p = .02), but there was no significant difference between internal focus and the other conditions (p > .05)
Post hoc comparisons revealed that online demonstration condition showed lower average EMG activation than external focus (p = .03), but there was no significant difference between internal focus and the other conditions (p > .05)
Summary
The focus of attention can be directed to the movement itself, known as internal focus, or directed to the effect this movement on the environment, known as external focus[1,2]. Wulf et al.[2] demonstrated in two experiments that the external focus condition is more effective for performance when compared to internal focus. The explanation for the benefits of external focus when compared to internal focus comes from the predominant use of unconscious or automatic processes to control movements when attention is externally directed (Constrained Action Hypothesis)[7]. When individuals’ attention is directed to their own body movements - internal focus - individuals become more conscious of the need to control their movements. A variety of studies support this notion[8,9,10,11]
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary 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 callMore From: Revista Brasileira de Cineantropometria & Desempenho Humano
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
