Comparison of maximal performance tests with and without simultaneous mental rotation
Tue-P14-Poster II-103
Presented by: Carla Luttmann
Classical cognitive-motor dual-tasks typically show impairments in the accuracy and stability of either cognitive or coordinative motor performance due to shared cognitive demands. Even for automated motor tasks such as aerobic activity acute effects on cognitive performance are observed. These can be explained by shared neural resources of limited capacity such as self-control (strength models) or by conflicting brain activation (reticular-activating hypofrontality model). In line with these models, previous research found a bidirectional increased effort during simultaneous cycling and mental rotation tasks compared to isolated tasks. However, performance could be upheld. As neural resources can be limited in both the maximum capacity and in the amount available over time, detrimental effects should be enhanced at higher intensities. Thus, the current study aims to investigate the interaction of both tasks under maximum physical load. Fifty participants performed two step tests on a cycling ergometer. Starting resistance was determined by gender, body weight, and weekly physical activity. Resistance was increased by 30/20 watt (male/female) every three minutes. During one test, participants simultaneously executed mental rotation tasks. Cognitive (reaction time, accuracy) and physical (power output, average pedalling cadence) performance, as well as objective (heart rate) and subjective (cognitive and physical ratings of perceived exertion) effort were measured during the respective tests. We mainly expect to find bidirectional increased effort and/or impaired performance in the dual-task condition. Linear mixed models will be used for statistical analysis. Data are collected and results will be available for the conference. The study was preregistered at osf.io.
Keywords: mental rotation, dual-task, maximal performance test