The effect of a single session submaximal aerobic exercise on premotor fraction of reaction time: An electromyographic study

Background Numerous studies investigating the effect of exercise on reaction time have yielded contradictory results. Most of the studies use computer based methods to measure reaction time instead of electromyography, yielding total reaction time rather than premotor time. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effect of a single session aerobic exercise on premotor fraction of reaction time in sedentary healthy individuals. Methods Twenty-two sedentary healthy subjects (11 subjects for the study group and 11 for the control group) enrolled in this study. Subjects in the exercise group performed a single session submaximal cycling exercise. Electromyographic reaction times were measured before and after the exercise session. In the control group, reaction time measurements were taken twice with an interval of 20 min. Findings In the exercise group, premotor fraction of reaction time values decreased considerably (P = 0.01) after the exercise session. Interpretation A single bout of cycling exercise significantly improved premotor fraction of reaction time in healthy young sedentary subjects. Physical activity improves not only physical fitness but also cognitive functions. Electromyographic reaction time evaluations may be used in the sports medicine field where both aerobic fitness and short reaction time are indispensable demands.