Muscle Memory - Fine Motor Memory

Fine Motor Memory

Fine motor skills are often discussed in terms of transitive movements, which are those done when using tools (which could be as simple as a tooth brush or pencil). Transitive movements have representations that become programmed to the premotor cortex, creating motor programs that result in the activation of the motor cortex and therefore the motor movements. In a study testing the motor memory of patterned finger movements (a fine motor skill) it was found that retention of certain skills are susceptible to disruption if another task interferes with one’s motor memory. However, such susceptibility can be reduced with time. For example, if a finger pattern is learned, then another is learned six hours later the original pattern will still be remembered, while learning such patterns back to back may cause forgetting of the initial one. Furthermore, the heavy use of computers by recent generations has both positive and negative effects. It was found that one of the main positive effects is that it enhances fine motor skills of children. Repetitive behaviours, such as typing on a computer from a young age, can enhance such abilities. Therefore, by beginning computer use at an early age, muscle memory may be activated earlier.