Examining anxiety associated changes in movement patterns

Building on the identified need for examination of anxiety effects 'in-even t', the present studies used movement kinematics to evaluate changes in mov ement patterns which were associated with changes in anxiety levels, In Stu dy One, 16 trained soldiers completed a stepping task at ground level and a t height (20 meters), In the second study, elite Olympic weightlifters perf ormed the snatch lift under training and competitive conditions. Cross conj ugate correlation functions demonstrated changes in movement patterns; sold iers were liable to a more consistent but individually different action whe n anxious while lifters appeared to use a consciously mediated change in st rategy as a result of competitive pressure. Results appear to offer a mecha nisms through which anxiety may act to affect performance.