Feedforward Response in Anticipation of Physical Activity

Abstract

Feedforward regulation is thought to mitigate drastic changes in the body’s response to anticipatory stimuli. While it is hypothesized that feedforward regulation in anticipation of exercise exists, no studies have produced statistically significant results. This study aimed to determine if feedforward regulation in anticipation of exercise exists for respiration rate, heart rate, blood pressure, and tensile strength. Baseline measurements of these four physiological measurements were taken for both the experimental and the control groups. The experimental group was told they would be participating in intense physical activity and the control group was told they would be participating in a stress relieving activity of meditation, physical activity, or aroma therapy. After three minutes, a second set of measurements was taken for both groups and then both groups were told they would be biking for maximum intensity for one minute. The change in physiological responses from the baseline to the second measurement was compared between the experimental and control group to determine if a feedforward response occurred. The results of this study showed that any greater change in physiological response in the experimental group compared to the control group was not significant and cannot be attributed to feedforward regulation.