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Related Experiment Videos

Two-muscle coordination versus natural treadmill locomotion.

M C Wetzel1, D L Pierce

  • 1Department of Psychology, Faculty of Social and Behavioral Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, University of Arizona, Tucson 85721.

American Journal of Physical Medicine
|December 1, 1987
PubMed
Summary

Learned double-muscle behaviors can integrate with natural human locomotion without disrupting step timing. This research shows operant conditioning shapes complex motor patterns, enhancing interlimb coordination.

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Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Motor Control
  • Human Locomotion

Background:

  • Previous research demonstrated single-muscle learned behaviors acted as independent units during treadmill locomotion.
  • Learned behaviors can influence existing motor patterns, prompting investigation into how muscle ensembles coordinate.
  • Understanding muscle synergy is crucial for deciphering complex human movement patterns.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate if a learned double-muscle behavior harmoniously integrates with or competes against natural human treadmill locomotion.
  • To explore the neural mechanisms underlying the coordination of learned and natural motor patterns.
  • To assess the capacity of operant conditioning in shaping complex, multi-muscle motor ensembles.

Main Methods:

  • Developed a novel double-muscle learned behavior requiring in-phase bilateral rectus femoris (RF) activity.

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  • Utilized computer-assisted operant conditioning, triggered by a visual cue post-left heel strike, to train the new motor pattern.
  • Assessed the integration of the learned behavior with natural treadmill locomotion in four adult participants.

    • Main Results:

    • The double-muscle learned behavior was acquired rapidly (1-6 days) by all participants.
    • Participants largely maintained harmonious stepping with minimal changes in step cycle timing.
    • Significant modifications in leg positioning were observed, indicating complex neural adaptations.
    • The learned behavior integrated effectively with natural locomotion, rather than competing with it.

    Conclusions:

    • Operant conditioning is a powerful tool for constructing complex, fine-grained motor behaviors.
    • Learned multi-muscle ensembles can integrate harmoniously with natural human locomotion.
    • Complex neural mechanisms govern the coordination of learned and innate motor patterns, influencing interlimb coordination.