Adaptation of simple movements to changes in load

The author studied the adaptation of simple movements to changes in load. Subjects practised rapid wrist movements until they were consistent. Then they suddenly changed the inertial load, simulated by a computer-controlled motor. Adaptation to a much larger inertia occurred over the course of a few movements. The authors studied the mechanisms of adaptation using a model of the movement system and by analyzing electromyograms. Compensation for the larger inertia involves components from muscle mechanics, reflexes, and high-level neural compensation. Adaptation of the control pattern occurs during the next few trials.<>