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Abstract

The main goal of the present study was to determine the differences in the reaction time after visual stimulation while listening to different volumes of background music. Another goal of the study was to compare the reaction times (simple reaction time-SRT and choice reaction time-CRT) measured when using a smartphone and hands-free. The research sample consisted of 75 sports active students (35 men of 24±2.1 years and 40 women of 23±3.3 years). The values of the reaction time were identified using the Fitro Agility Check and Fitro Reaction systems. Tested subjects had to react via arm or leg movements in a seated position to the visual stimuli. The results show that the reaction time during the entrance test and tests during which the tested subjects were exposed to interfering sounds of 60 and 90 dB showed no significant differences in SRT. Tested subjects reacted significantly faster to four stimuli while listening to music at 90 dB. When the smartphone was used, the SRT and the CRT both worsened. The results of the study can be used in practice when people are exposed to audial stimuli during physical activity. The results and outcomes of the study can be useful for preparing athletes before their performances in sport disciplines in which a fast reaction is an important variable of their performance. The results, which showed a decrease in reaction time during the use of a hands-held phone and a hands-free, can be useful in everyday activities of people (e.g., driving a car).