Reaction time

How it is used

Coaches measure reaction time from a signal such as a light or sound to the start of movement, rather than to the movement's completion.

Example sentences

1. The light-based drill recorded her reaction time.

   The delay begins with the light and ends when her response starts.

2. His reaction time improved, but the full sprint was slower.

   Starting sooner does not guarantee a faster entire run.

Common collocations

• measure reaction time
• fast reaction time

Related terms

• drillA short practice exercise, repeated many times, that trains one particular skill or movement, such as passing, footwork or a set play.
• biomechanicsThe study of how the body moves and how forces act on muscles, joints, and technique during movement.

More terms: Sports Science & Performance

• endurance
• heart rate
• VO2 max
• aerobic
• anaerobic
• body composition
• overtraining
• taper
• energy system
• lactate threshold
• heart rate zone
• resting heart rate