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Skill level, vision, and proprioception in simple one-hand catching
1Department of Physical Education, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, Illinois 62901, USA.
Journal of Motor Behavior
|June 1, 1985
Summary
Skilled catchers use proprioception for limb positioning, but vision is crucial for grasp timing. Novice catchers struggle with limb positioning without sight, highlighting skill
Area of Science:
- Motor Control
- Human Movement Science
- Sensory Integration
Background:
- Articular proprioception provides limb position sense.
- Vision plays a role in coordinating movements.
- The interplay between vision and proprioception in catching is not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the interaction between vision and articular proprioception in one-hand catching.
- To determine the effect of visual deprivation on catching phases for skilled and novice individuals.
- To examine the role of skill level in utilizing proprioception for limb positioning.
Main Methods:
- Two experiments involving one-hand catching of slowly moving tennis balls.
- Skilled (baseball/softball players) and novice participants were recruited.
- Visual input to the catching hand was manipulated using a screen.
Main Results:
- Skilled catchers showed minimal disruption in positioning but moderate disruption in grasping when vision was occluded.
- Novice catchers experienced significant disruption in limb positioning without visual feedback.
- Results offered limited support for proprioception inadequacy in limb positioning, suggesting skill mediation.
Conclusions:
- Skill level modulates the use of proprioception for limb positioning during catching.
- Vision is essential for the precise temporal control of the grasp phase in one-hand catching.
- Proprioception alone may be insufficient for accurate limb positioning, especially in novice individuals.