OBJECTIVES:
Sensorimotor control is vital for successful execution of mission-critical tasks in microgravity, and on planetary and lunar surfaces. However, exposure to microgravity results in disruptions in sensorimotor, cardiovascular, and neuromuscular systems that can present as balance and gait disturbances, cardiovascular deconditioning, and loss of muscle mass, muscle coordination, and strength. Astronauts regularly participate in strength and conditioning programs to mitigate cardiovascular and strength decrements associated with space flight; however, recent research suggests sensorimotor-based countermeasures may be necessary to maintain functional performance following spaceflight. Neuromuscular control enables dynamic interactions with the environment via fast subcortical responses.
Through this study, the researchers seek to examine the patented Leg Dexterity System (the leg version of the Valero Dexterity Test™ from Neuromuscular Dynamics, LLC) to enhance neuromuscular control and complement and amplify the efficacy of exercise as a countermeasure to neuromuscular performance decrements during and after space flight.
This experiment will address two hypotheses:
(1) Supplementing an eight-week strength and conditioning regimen with the Leg Dexterity System increases dynamic stabilization and neuromuscular control abilities.
(2) Despite the sex differences in dexterity levels reported in past research, there will be no sex difference in the amount of improvement in dynamic stabilization and neuromuscular control abilities.


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