3.1 Intro to Motor Control

Question 1

What are the three key components that interact to produce movement?

Answer 1

The individual, the task, and the environment.

Question 2

Give an example of how task and environment influence movement.

Answer 2

Picking up a heavy, fragile cup on a moving bus requires different strategies than lifting a light cup on a stable table.

Question 3

Why is movement described as dynamic and adaptable?

Answer 3

The human movement system constantly reorganizes to handle new conditions, like walking on uneven surfaces or adjusting after a balance disturbance.

Question 4

Define motor control

Answer 4

How our bodies manage posture and movement in real time through dynamic, continuous adjustments.

Question 5

Which three systems work together for motor control?

Answer 5

Motor action (neuromuscular) system, sensory & perceptual systems, and cognition.

Question 6

Role of the neuromuscular system in motor control?

Answer 6

Coordinates muscles and joints so movements appear smooth and seamless.

Question 7

How does perception differ from simple sensation?

Answer 7

Perception interprets sensory input meaningfully, such as knowing limb position in space.

Question 8

Cognitive influences on motor control include what?

Answer 8

Attention, planning, decision-making, motivation, and emotion.

Question 9

What are task constraints?

Answer 9

Characteristics of the task that affect planning and execution, e.g., carrying a heavy tray across a slippery floor.

Question 10

Distinguish regulatory from non-regulatory environmental features.

Answer 10

Regulatory features directly shape movement (surface type, object size/weight); non-regulatory features affect performance but not the movement pattern (noise, lighting).

Question 11

What is a discrete movement task?

Answer 11

Has a clear beginning and end, e.g., kicking a ball or standing up.

Question 12

What is a continuous movement task?

Answer 12

No inherent end; performer decides when to stop, e.g., walking or running.

Question 13

Define a closed movement environment.

Answer 13

Fixed or predictable setting, e.g., walking on a level indoor surface.

Question 14

Define an open movement environment.

Answer 14

Unpredictable setting requiring adaptation, e.g., playing basketball.

Question 15

Difference between stability and mobility tasks?

Answer 15

Stability: base of support is stationary (sitting/reaching). Mobility: base of support moves (walking, crawling).

Question 16

What is a manipulation task?

Answer 16

Requires upper extremity movement, e.g., picking up a glass.

Question 17

Give examples of non-manipulation tasks.

Answer 17

Walking or hiking (no specific upper extremity movement).