SENSORIMOTOR REACTIVITY OF THE NERVOUS SYSTEM IN STUDENT ATHLETES UNDER CONSECUTIVE PHYSICAL AND MENTAL LOAD

Abstract

Sensorimotor reactivity is a key indicator of the functional state of the nervous system in student athletes, particularly when facing consecutive physical and mental demands. Aim. To identify the characteristics of sensorimotor reactivity in skiers following the consecutive application of physical and mental loads. Materials and methods. The study involved 77 male student athletes (aged 19–21 years) of different skill levels (MS, CMS, and ranked athletes). The simple visual-motor reaction time (SVMRT) was measured at baseline, immediately after a physical load (cycle ergometer test), and following a subsequent mental load (Amthauer test). Data were analyzed using nonparametric statistical methods. Results. Highly skilled athletes (MS, CMS) exhibited a 6% decrease in SVMRT after physical exertion. The subsequent mental load caused an increase in reaction time, though it remained below the baseline level. Lower-ranked athletes demonstrated a 10.1% decrease in SVMRT after physical exertion. This was followed by a significant increase following mental load, suggesting lower resistance of the central nervous system to combined loads. Conclusion. The sensorimotor reactivity in student skiers demonstrates the adaptive capabilities of the nervous system to consecutive physical and mental loads.