The effect of directional uncertainty on reaction time and movement time in a fencing task

Abstract

Henry's ‘memory drum’ theory was concerned with the effects of motor programming on simple reaction time. Alternatively, Klapp and his associates have argued that a choice reaction time paradigm is preferable as a means of investigating programming effects. The present experiment, using a controlled fencing lunge, investigated motor programming effects from both perspectives. Both reaction time and movement time increased with increasing directional uncertainty of the movement, encouraging the conclusion that motor programming influences both components of total response time. General support was found for Klapp's methodological arguments, but his claim that reaction time is unaffected by movement complexity in closed‐loop movement situations was rejected. The findings have implications for future research.

Key Words:

• Motor programming
• reaction time
• movement time
• fencing