Examining Transfer Effects of Dual-Task Training Protocols for a Complex Locomotor Task

J Mot Behav. 2018 Mar-Apr;50(2):177-193. doi: 10.1080/00222895.2017.1327409. Epub 2017 Jun 23.

Abstract

Training protocols designed to improve dual-task performance of an obstacle crossing and auditory Stroop task (OBS+Stroop) were tested. In Experiment 1 , following baseline collection of OBS+Stroop trials, proximally related walking training was performed, and participants were then retested on the OBS+Stroop test. After training, participants adopted a more cautious obstacle crossing strategy, indicating a potentially safer navigation strategy. Transfer effects from distally related training were then examined (Experiment 2 ); a computer game training paradigm was examined using the same testing protocol as Experiment 1 . Computer training demonstrated improved dual-task performance on some measures, but did not induce a more cautious stepping strategy. Results indicate that dual-task training needs to be similar to targeted tasks to yield reliable, positive training outcomes.

Keywords: auditory Stroop task; dual-task training; obstacle crossing; proximal training effects; variable priority training.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Stroop Test
  • Task Performance and Analysis*
  • Transfer, Psychology*
  • Walking / psychology*
  • Young Adult