Extrinsic variability but not intrinsic variability affects the search for synergies in de-novo motor learning.

ABSTRACT: De-novo motor learning involves emergence of novel task-specific joint angle coordination patterns, called synergies, through structured change in joint angle variability, called search. Search implies variability in joint angles and task performance, but the understanding of the relationship between variability and learning is still unclear. This study examines the contributions of extrinsic variability - differing practice schedules in the task (blocked vs. random) and intrinsic variability - flexibility in individual's movements - on learning, search and synergy formation. Participants were first categorized based on their intrinsic variability (i.e., joint angle covariation in an adaptive reaching task). Learning was then evaluated on a virtual lateral interception task with a redundan

SUBMITTER: Mehta A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12546870 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature