Effect of work intensity on performance in a psychomotor task during exercise

Abstract

The influence of work intensity on performance in a psychomotor task was examined using 10 male subjects. The experiment involved a 60s pursuit rotor task during both the 4th and 6th min of cycling at zero resistance and at 25,40,55,70 and 85% V˙O₂ max. A curve of the inverted-U form was found to fit the performance data significantly (p<0·05). The mean optimal loading was calculated to occur at a moderate work intensity of 38% V˙O₂ max. The results have implications for activities where psychomotor tasks are superimposed on a requirement for high muscular power output levels.

Keywords:

• Metabolic load
• Secondary task
• Psychomotor performance
• Pursuit rotor
• Perceived exertion