Reaction Time and Movement Time in Agility Performance: Tools to Identify Specific Goals

Silva, H, Morral-Yepes, M, and Abade, E. Reaction time and movement time within the agility time: tools to identify specific goals. J Strength Cond Res 40(6): 709-722, 2026-Agility is a critical component in team sports, encompassing rapid whole-body movements in response to stimuli and can be conceptualized as comprising 2 distinct segments: reaction time, which is the interval between the presentation of a stimulus and the initiation of movement in response to the stimulus; and movement time, which refers to the period between the start and end of the movement corresponding to the reaction. This narrative review presents a conceptual framework on the intricate relationship between these phases, which together shape the expression of agility in athletes. A structured literature search using Boolean operators was conducted across multiple databases, supplemented by backward citation tracking, to identify relevant studies on reaction time and movement time within agility in sports contexts. The review underscores the complexity of reaction time, influenced by the type of stimulus and the athlete's anticipatory skills, and the importance of movement time, affected by multiple factors including rate of force development, neuromuscular coordination, movement amplitude, and task-specific biomechanical demands. Assessment methods for reaction and movement times vary, ranging from general to sport-specific tests. Training interventions targeting these components show promise, with specific protocols improving reaction and movement times, although more research is needed to optimize these strategies, especially regarding movement time. By segmenting agility into reaction and movement times, practitioners can better identify and address athletes' specific needs, leading to more effective training programs. Through clear definitions and a conceptual framework, this review advances understanding of agility and informs practical approaches to training and assessment.