National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) Practice Exam

What is the process of integrating motor control processes with practice called?

1. Motor development

2. Motor control

3. Motor learning

4. Sensorimotor integration

The correct answer is: Motor learning

The process of integrating motor control processes with practice is referred to as motor learning. This concept encompasses the acquisition and refinement of skills through practice and experience, emphasizing how the brain and body work together to improve movement patterns over time. Motor learning is not merely about executing a movement but rather about the changes that occur in the brain's ability to coordinate muscle actions to produce more effective and efficient movements. This is often achieved through various stages of learning, where an individual progresses from initial understanding to mastery of a skill. Motor development, in contrast, refers to the changes in motor skills as a result of biological maturation and environmental experiences, rather than the learning processes triggered by practice. Motor control involves the neural and physical mechanisms that allow for movement execution, but it does not specifically encompass the practice aspect involved in learning. Sensorimotor integration describes the process of combining sensory and motor information, but it is more focused on how sensory input influences motor output rather than the structured practice and refinement involved in motor learning. Thus, motor learning effectively captures the integration of practice with motor control processes, emphasizing the ongoing development of skills as a result of consistent practice.