New study links human reaction times to breathing cycles

New study links human reaction times to breathing cycles

Imagine swimmers on starting blocks poised to dive at the sound of the starting horn or the driver of a car going 60 mph suddenly needing to brake to avoid a collision. A small fraction of a second in response time could make the difference between winning or losing and life or death.

Ready, set, exhale: Breathing out linked to faster responses

Imagine swimmers on starting blocks, poised to dive at the sound of the starting horn, or a driver traveling at 60 mph (97 kilometers per hour) who suddenly needs to brake to avoid a collision. A fraction of a second in response time could mean the difference between winning and losing—or between life and death.

Rhythm of Your Breath Controls Reaction Time

A new study shows people react 41 milliseconds faster while exhaling than inhaling, linking respiratory cycles directly to motor speed.