On the Effect of Visual Stimulation in Tapping Test Through a Synchronized IMU-Based Measurement Procedure

Coordinative and conditional abilities can be assessed through various standardized tests. Often, these tests are performed using a non-automated protocol and results' accuracy heavily depends on the data acquisition approach. One of the most used protocol is named 'tapping test', and it deals with the repetitive movement of hand fingers (typically the index finger) in a coordinated way. This work, stemming from a well-validated acquisition and measurement approach to assess 'tapping test' features, based on synchronized inertial devices mounted on the top of the index finger, evaluates the effect of regulating the protocol by visual stimulation. In detail, it delivers insights about the improvements in terms of capabilities, specifically concerning the pace keeping and the achievement of high simultaneity rhythm in case of a bi-manual test case (right and left hand index fingers involved). The experimental campaign involved thirty young participants performing bimanual tapping (synchronous and alternate finger movements). The results demonstrated significant performance improvements when visual stimulation was applied. Specifically, participants showed an 87% improvement in simultaneity during synchronous bimanual tapping and a 72% improvement in pace regularity during alternate bimanual tapping compared to the non-stimulated condition. Furthermore, visual stimulation substantially reduced performance variability within the population, indicating enhanced coordination and rhythm accuracy.