Information Processes, Stimulation and Perceptual Training in Fencing

Abstract

Information Processes, Stimulation and Perceptual Training in Fencing Learning and development of motor skills and techniques in fencing and other sports with open motor habits are based on perceptual processes involving the senses of vision, touch, and hearing. In fencing, the same stimuli can yield defensive or offensive actions, which are strictly related to the tactics and strategy. Different types of stimulation determine reaction time, movement time, and muscle bioelectric tension (EMG) in fencing. From the training process, controlling the significance of dominant stimuli should be taken into account. The results of presented studies of advanced and novice fencers show that the time of reaction to tactile stimulation is similar or slightly shorter than to acoustic stimuli followed by visual stimuli. The advanced fencers were faster than the novice fencers in all the studied parameters. The EMG signal was significantly lower in case of advanced fencers in all three types of stimulation. It can be a proof that the psycho-motor superiority of elite fencers results in a reduction of the bioelectrical tension of muscles involved in performing the motor tasks. Perceptual skills enable athletes to respond to important signals in sport competition and ignore disrupting ones which lower the effectiveness of sports combat. Time pressure during sports competition makes it necessary to reduce as much as possible the decision-making time and the time of sensorimotor responses in the motor phase. The study results show that experienced athletes make decisions much faster than their novice colleagues. It conforms to the main strategy of perceptual training, (i.e., gaining maximum benefits at the lowest expense). Speed of decision-making is strictly associated with the stimuli detection effectiveness and re-creation of acquired motor patterns.

Effect of target change during the simple attack in fencing

“…Consequently, when the target changes due to an action of the opponent, the displacement is slower than when the attack is a straight thrust. This aspect is confirmed by the results of Sanderson (1983) and Borysiuk and Waskiewicz (2008), which show that uncertainty caused by target change during the attacking action in fencing reduces velocity. The graph in Figure 2 for one of the participants approximates a typical example.…”

“…Besides the acquisition of a certain functional variability in movement patterns, this type of training is intended to help the fencer reduce their choice reaction time, attempting to associate every response with a stimulus. However, studies carried out that entail varying levels of uncertainty of response for the fencer (Borysiuk & Waskiewicz, 2008;Sanderson, 1983), along with certain explanatory theories discussed below, cause us to suspect that the uncertainty produced by target change during the execution of a movement may reduce the velocity of displacement and modify the coordination of the movement pattern, approximating the context of real competition.…”

Type of perception vs. lunge in fencing technique structure

“…The results coming from various experiments prove that athletes respond on tactile stimuli in comparison with visual stimuli in the shortest time. The differentiation is estimated approximately from 100 to 120 ms. We observe slight variation in reference to information processes in response to acoustic and tactile stimuli to gain 10-15 ms (Borysiuk & Waśkiewicz, 2008).…”

Neuromuscular Screening to predict young fencers’ performance

“…In this view, professional fencers have superior neuromuscular coordination and reaction time skills compared to novice athletes (4,29). Therefore, choice reaction time protocols can also be used effectively in talent identification programs among young fencers (2).…”