Six months aikido training shortens reaction time

Abstract

A shorter reaction time in Aikido is essential for success. The aim of this study was to assess the effects of training on simple and choice reaction time in novice and experienced aikido practitioners. Sixty four Aikido practitioners between 18 to 28 years of age were divided into the experienced and the novice groups. Reaction time (RT) was assumed to be shorter in the experienced group compared to that of the novice group.

Simple visual reaction time scores of the experienced group were statistically lower in the dominant hand (M=0,16 SD=0,02sec) and  the non-dominant hand  (M=0,17, SD=0 ,02sec); in the experienced group  when compared to the dominant ( t (60)= 5,94, p<0.001 ) and non dominant ( t (60)= 5,40, p<.001 d=1.2) hands of the novice group. Simple auditory  reaction time scores of the experienced group were statistically lower in dominant hand (M=0,16 SD=0,03sec) and non dominant hand  (M=0,16, SD=0,02sec);when compared to the  dominant hand ( t (60)= 4,23, p<.001 ) and non dominant hands( t (60)= 4,22, p<0.001 d=1)of the novice group. Choice reaction time scores of the experienced group were statistically lower than that of the novice group. . Choice reaction time scores of the dominant hand (M=0,43 SD=0,07sec) and non dominant hand scores (M=0,43, SD=0,06sec)of; the experienced group was significantly higher than that of the dominant ( t (60)= 5,61, p<.001 d= 1.3 ) and non dominant hand scores (t (60)= 4,71, p<.001 d=1.2) hands of the novice group. These results indicates that six months Aikido training improves simple and choice visual and auditory reaction time scores