THE EFFECTS OF AUGMENTED BIOFEEDBACK ON NOVEL MOTOR-TASK LEARNING

Abstract

Biofeedback has been shown to be an influential part of skill acquisition and performance, however, the use of biofeedback for novice, sports specific skill learning has not been assessed. Non-rowers (n=3) performed a 10-minute, novel-rowing task, where joint and rowing ergometer kinematics recorded. Following six non-instructed, subjective reinforcement sessions, participants completed a further six sessions whilst receiving real-time biofeedback. The results show that all subjects changed their rowing technique, moving towards the pattern prescribed by the biofeedback intervention. The elbow remained in greater extension until later in the pull, which induced changes in the temporal aspects of both knee and lumbar spine kinematics.