Investigation of Anticipation in Motor Control Using Kinematic and Kinetic Metrics in a Leader-Follower Task
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Anticipation allows individuals to prepare actions by predicting upcoming events, yet its influence on motor learning and its practical relevance for rehabilitation remain unclear. This study investigates how anticipation mechanisms shape motor learning and skill acquisition in a virtual leader–follower task and explores their potential for adaptive training. Forty-nine healthy adults performed a joystick-controlled tracking task in virtual reality, following a dynamic leader that was always visible (Control), became invisible at regular intervals (Deterministic Anticipation), or disappeared randomly (Stochastic Anticipation) to elicit anticipatory behavior. Kinematic and kinetic metrics and time-series analysis were used to evaluate synchrony, smoothness, and coordination. Performance improved from baseline to retention, with no distinct differences in final performance between the groups. However, slope-based analyses found that anticipation-based training accelerated learning, especially in the novice subgroup (baseline score < 35), with marked improvements in metrics such as score pause duration, temporal lag, and spatial error. Although participants reached similar final performance levels across protocols, the rate and pattern of learning differed across training protocols. Anticipation accelerates early-stage improvements, with the strongest effects observed in novice participants. The paradigm provides a high-resolution framework for adaptive motor training and assessment.
Source: Applied Sciences
DOI: 10.3390/app16062840
Institutions: Middle East Technical University, Ankara University
Language: English
Topic: Motor Control and Adaptation
Subfield: Cognitive Neuroscience
Field: Neuroscience
Domain: Life Sciences
SDG: Quality education
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,896
OpenAlex ID: W7136368452