The contribution of cardiac vagal activity on peripheral perception under pressure.

The aim of this study is to explore the contribution of cardiac vagal activity (CVA), derived from heart rate variability (HRV), on peripheral perception under pressure. Forty-nine participants (n=49) completed a peripheral perception task under pressure. Peripheral perception was measured via the Vienna system from which performance variables were derived (total field of vision, total correct reactions, total incorrect reactions and omitted reactions). CVA measurements were taken at baseline, during the task and post-task for 5min along with subjective self-reported stress ratings on a visual analog scale (VAS). Post-task perceived pressure and motivation measures were taken in order to check for pressure manipulation and motivation to compete. CVA measures were inputted as independent variables into a stepwise liner regression in order to predict peripheral perception performance. Results showed there were no predictors for variables related to peripheral perception performance, indicating that CVA does not significantly affect peripheral perception. Suggestion for null findings is discussed in light of the neurovisceral integration model.