Physical Activity Level and Reaction Time Relationship in University Students

INTRODUCTION: This study aimed to determine whether there is a relationship between physical activity level and reaction time in university students, as physical exercise has been shown to significantly impact the development of these functions. Reaction time, a key indicator of both physical and cognitive abilities, measures how quickly a person responds to a stimulus.
METHODS: The study included 40 healthy university students aged 20 to 30. The International Physical Activity Questionnaire was used to divide the participants into two groups based on their physical activity levels (n₁=20, n₂=20). Reaction times were assessed using the Nelson Hand Reaction Test and computer-based reaction time measurements for individuals with high and low levels of physical activity.
RESULTS: The Nelson Hand Reaction Test results indicated that individuals who engaged in more physical exercise performed better than those who did not (p=0.000). However, no statistically significant correlation was found between reaction time and physical activity level (p>0.05).
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: Reaction time is shorter in physically active individuals. Increasing physical activity levels is important at all ages, as leading an active lifestyle can support better brain function. Therefore, encouraging regular physical exercise may be a valuable strategy to enhance cognitive and motor performance.