Motor imagery versus reality in gymnastics: A pilot field-study using mobile EEG when initiating basic skills on the horizontal bar

Abstract

Defining the "functional equivalence" between motor imagery (MI) and the actual dynamic execution of a motor task is of crucial importance. Achieving this understanding may enable artifact-free neuroscience of sporting behaviour, consequently facilitating big data pattern recognition to decode and predict motor behaviour. To date, however, limited field studies have delved into the neuronal behaviour of dynamic sport-specific motor tasks, particularly those involving acyclic movements. This pilot study sought to address this gap by exploring the limits of sport-specific EEG field research. Mobile EEG/EMG setups has been utilised to examine experienced gymnasts' imagined and actual movement initiation when performing basic horizontal bar elements. By doing so, the aim was to elucidate the degree of computational equivalence between MI and actual movement initiation, and identify the factors that contribute to discrepancies in neural activation patterns. The main findings suggest that MI exhibits a level of computational equivalence that approaches internal simulation processing, but falls short of being able to fully analyse sport-specific tasks without actual execution. Factors such as arousal, activation, proprioceptive demand, motor unit recruitment speed, and the sensorimotor modality were found to affect motor-related alpha/beta activity levels. These factors may contribute to the observed differences between MI and actual task execution. In conclusion, additional investigation and the implementation of standardised procedures are essential to overcome movement artifacts and accurately record real-world performances. By addressing these challenges, we can initiate a novel epoch of machine learning-based human movement neuroscience, with far-reaching implications for the optimisation of athletic training, rehabilitation, and the understanding of human motor control. Ultimately, our study lays the groundwork for further research aimed at refining the concept of functional equivalence between MI and actual motor task execution in the context of dynamic sport-specific movements.