Random Practice Enhances Motor Learning in Extroverted Older Women

Motor learning in older adults may be influenced by both practice structure and individual personality traits. Contextual interference (CI) theory and personality-based arousal regulation accounts suggest that introversion and extraversion could moderate the effects of blocked versus random practice.

To examine whether personality traits (introversion vs. extraversion) moderate the impact of practice structure (blocked vs. random) on motor learning in older women.

Forty-eight women (mean age = 68 years) were classified as introverted or extroverted. Participants completed golf putting tasks under either blocked or random practice schedules. Performance was assessed across four phases: pretest, acquisition, transfer, and retention.

Extroverted women practicing under random schedules demonstrated superior performance in delayed transfer compared to other groups. Conclusions: Findings diverge from evidence in younger adults, suggesting that aging may alter the interaction between personality and CI. Results highlight the importance of lifespan-sensitive approaches to individualized motor learning interventions.