Reaction Time
Year 12 Physical Eduaction
Reaction Time Definition
Is the time that it takes for the body to react to an external stimulus, from the time the presentation of a stimulus to the onset of a response.
Factor that Affect the Fitness Components
The amount of fast twitch fibers the individual has would affect the ability that person has to react. If the individual has more fast twitch fibres than slow twitch then they are more likely to have the ability to perform better than someone who has more slow twitch.
External distractions and decision-making can mean that reaction time increases. When there is only one possible response reaction time is at its quickest.
2 Recognised Tests
Ruler- Drop reaction test
Light board reaction timer
Methods
Ruler- Drop reaction test
Equipment:
One, one meter ruler and a chair
Procedure:
The performer sits on the chair and the tester holds the ruler vertically at the top. the performer places their thumb and index finger either side of the ruler at the 10 cm mark, about 1 cm fromthe ruler. the tester releases the ruler without warning. the performer stops the ruler at quickly as possible. Record the distance (in cm) that the ruler dropped.
Light Board Reaction Test
Equipment:
Bosu Ball, instrumented light board
Procedure:
The performer stands in front of this light board with their body positioned at the center of the board. When the light board is started the target light moves around the board the lights are located at different distances away from the center of the board. The aim is to press as many lights as possible.
Norms for Ruler-Drop Test (Centimeters)
Excellent: less than 9.9
Good: 10-20
Average: 21-40
Poor: greater than 40
Training methods to train the fitness components
There is no specific training methods to improve reaction time. If you are a sprinter you would have to practice starts and reacting to the gun. To add to the difficulty and practice race day situations, have a recording of the crowd and play that while practicing the starts.