Effects of Physical Activity (PAL) on Simple Visual Reaction Time (SVRT) in Healthy Indians-A Pilot Study

To examine the association between physical activity and simple visual reaction (sVRT) time in a pilot study.

Twenty (20) healthy volunteers of both the genders who were aged between 18 and 50 years were recruited so far in this pilot study. Reaction time (RT), is the elapsed time between the presentation of a stimulus and the subsequent behavioral response to occur. subjects were presented with green light stimulus for both the genders. The measurement of simple visual reaction time has been used to evaluate the processing speed of central nervous system and the coordination between the sensory and motor system. The physical activity level (PAL) was determined by administering a physical activity level questionnaire developed in the Division of Nutrition, st. John's Medical College, and Bangalore. The PAL is classified as <1.4 as sedentary, 1.55 to 1.75 moderately active, and >1.75 heavily active.

imple visual reaction time (sVRT) is more in lower level of physical activity (PAL) i.e 1.32± 1.4. The visual reaction time is slightly higher in male 0.50±.20 msec. In this study we observed that Simple visual reaction time is prolonged for the persons with higher BMI.

A lower level of physical activity is a risk factor for higher visual reaction time which determines the cognitive function of brain. Reaction time is a measure of function of sensorimotor association and performance of an individual. simple visual reaction time (sVRT) has physiological significance and is a simple and non-invasive test for peripheral as well as central neural structures.