Optic flow influences perceived exertion and distance estimation but not running pace.
OBJECTIVE
This study aimed to examine the effect of variations in optic flow on perceived and actual running pace and RPE.


METHODS
Twelve male moderately trained competitive runners performed a self-paced 5-km running reference time trial followed by a three 5-km running self-paced trials under different optic flow conditions (RNORM = actual running speed, RSLOW = actual speed - 25%, and RFAST = actual speed + 25%). Participants were asked to self-report RPE when they thought they had reached each kilometer.


RESULTS
There was no difference in the 5-km completion times (P > 0.05) or actual pace (P > 0.05) between the optic flow conditions. A greater distance was covered between the perceived kilometer points during RSLOW compared with RNORM (P < 0.01) and RFAST (P < 0.01). RPE (normalized for running distance) was lower during RSLOW compared with RNORM (P < 0.01) and RFAST (P < 0.01).


CONCLUSIONS
Different rates of optic flow lead to an apparent compression or elongation of perceived distance during running, with slow optic flow resulting in an increased ratio of perceived to actual running distance. Pacing was not different in the slow optic flow condition, despite lower perceived exertion, which is contrary to the predictions of the RPE template model, hazard scores, and estimated time limits.
School of Biological Sciences, University of Essex, Wivenhoe Park, Colchester, UNITED KINGDOM.
Dave
D
Parry
Dominic
D
Micklewright
D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D057849:Optic Flow; D010465:Perception; D005082:Physical Exertion / Q000502:physiology*; D012420:Running / Q000502:physiology* / Q000523:psychology*; D013997:Time Factors