Vol 12, Issue 5

The Impact of Cell Phone Texting During Aerobic Exercise on Measures of Cognition

July 1, 2019 - By 

Authors

Michael J. Rebold, Hiram College
Mallory S. Kobak, Hiram College, The University of Akron
Cody A. Croall, Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania
Emily A. Cumberledge, Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania
Matthew T. Dirlam, Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania
Timothy P. Sheehan, Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania
International Journal of Exercise Science 12(5): 646-656, 2019. 
DOI: 10.70252/GSYA7398

Abstract

This study assessed the effect of cell phone texting during a 30-minute bout of cycle ergometer exercise on measures of cognition (i.e., reaction time and accuracy). Twenty-eight college students participated in two conditions (cell phone and no cell phone). Reaction time and accuracy were assessed pre- and post-exercise with the use of the Stroop test. Reaction time was significantly worse (p < 0.001) in the cell phone condition from pre- (1003.75 ± 178.04 ms) to post-exercise (1124.46 ± 238.55 ms). Reaction time was significantly better (p < 0.001) in the no cell phone condition from pre- (1107.71 ± 229.54 ms) to post-exercise (953.86 ± 177.42 ms). Accuracy was significantly worse (p = 0.01) in the cell phone condition from pre- (97.61 ± 2.32) to post-exercise (94.04 ± 7.88). Accuracy was significantly better (p < 0.001) in the no cell phone condition from pre- (94.82 ± 4.42) to post-exercise (97.39 ± 2.42). In conclusion, using your cell phone for texting can interfere with the cognitive benefits associated with reaction time and accuracy that are developed from participating in aerobic exercise.

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