Effect of Center of Mass Immobilization on Center of Pressure Displacement in Single and Dual-Task

Lucas Michaud, David Lafleur, Yves Lajoie

2021Journal of Motor Behavior11 citationsDOI

Abstract

Recent research showed that artificially immobilizing the center of mass (COM) of participants in a standing position increased the center of pressure (COP) variability. This increase has been interpreted as an exploratory behavior. The objectives of this study are to investigate if this exploratory behavior is (1) reflected in other COP variables and (2) automatically controlled using a dual-task paradigm. Sixteen young adults were strapped to an apparatus which allowed them to sway freely ("unlocked") or to be immobilized ("locked") without their knowledge. Participants undertook the two phases (unlocked and locked) in a single-task and dual-task condition. Results suggested the presence of an exploratory behavior through different COP variables. Results also suggested this exploratory behavior to be automatic by nature.

Topics & Concepts

Center of pressure (fluid mechanics)Dual (grammatical number)Center (category theory)Displacement (psychology)Task (project management)Center of mass (relativistic)CommunicationPsychologyPhysicsMechanicsChemistryEngineeringArtLiteraturePsychotherapistEnergy–momentum relationSystems engineeringCrystallographyAerodynamicsBalance, Gait, and Falls PreventionEffects of Vibration on HealthMusculoskeletal pain and rehabilitation