“…Much like movement variability, emotion during learning (and performance) has previously been considered, as unwanted system noise (Davids, Glazier, Araújo, & Bartlett, 2003;Smith & Thelen, 2003). Here, we argue that the presence of emotion during learning is indicative of a performer being engaged or investing in task performance as they explore and exploit available affordances to satisfy their intentions and goals (Jones, 2003;Seifert, et al, 2013). For example, gymnasts attempting routines on balance beams of increasing height have been found to display performance decrements, elevated heart rate, and increased prevalence of perceived dysfunctional emotions (e.g.…”