Exercise, feedback, and biofeedback

Abstract

Motor learning is a complicated process resulting in the acquisition of new and, after practice, relatively permanent motor skills. There are three stages to motor learning. The first stage is called the cognitive stage and involves a person learning exactly what is required to perform a particular task and exactly how to perform that task correctly.1 In this stage of learning, feedback is essential if the motor task is to be reproduced precisely. The second stage involves fine tuning of the new skill. Mistakes are made less and less frequently until, finally, the task becomes automatic and does not require much attention during its execution, which is the third stage of skill acquisition.2 Although practice of the specific motor learning task is of prime importance, feedback is considered the next most important variable.3 © 2008 Springer-Verlag London.