The Relationship Between Respiration Phase and Reaction Time

The relationship between phase of normal respiration and reaction time (RT) was studied. S s were required to respond by pressing a switch each time a simple auditory signal was presented. Averages of response times were calculated for signals occurring during each of three identifiable phases of normal respiration. It was found that mean RT for signals presented during the inhalation phase of respiration was significantly less than for signals presented during either the exhalation phase or the pause between exhalation and inhalation.