AN APPRAISAL OF REACTION TIME IN ELITE SPRINTERS AND ITS COMPARISON WITH AGE-MATCHED CONTROLS

Aim: Our study aimed to quantify sprinter’s reaction time and compared it with age-matched controls. Material methods: Database of 30 male sprinters and age-matched controls for reaction time (auditory, visual and whole body reaction time) was compiled. Sprinters included those who had participated in different state and national athletic meets. After compilation of this data, it was statistically analyzed using unpaired T-test. Results: Our study indicated a highly significant (P value < 0.001) relationship in auditory and visual reaction time between athletes and controls. Our study also revealed that athletes reacted and responded quickly than controls. Whole body reaction time for front and back were highly significant (P value <0.001). Reaction time for right side was significant (P value <0.01), whereas whole body reaction time did not differ on left side in these two groups. Conclusion: Considering the findings of this study, the results suggest that sprinters reacting abilities are faster and quicker than controls, which definitely affects sprint performance. The above finding is of great interest for coaches and athletes in sports involving reacting skills.