The Effects of Attentional Focus and Dual-Tasking on Gait Variability in Healthy Adults

This study aimed to investigate the effects of attentional focus (internal vs. external) and cognitive dual-tasking on gait variability in healthy adults. Walking, as a fundamental human motor pattern, is influenced by cognitive and attentional demands. Twenty healthy participants (10 men and 10 women) participated in this quasi-experimental within-subjects study. Participants completed four walking conditions: normal walking, walking with an internal focus, walking with an external focus, and walking while performing a cognitive dual-task (counting backward from 100). Kinematic data were recorded using a Vicon motion capture system and analyzed using Python. Key outcome measures included spatial-temporal gait parameters, local dynamic stability assessed <i>via</i> the Lyapunov exponent, and motor variability based on the uncontrolled manifold (UCM) framework. Repeated measures ANOVA and post hoc tests revealed that attentional focus and cognitive load significantly influenced walking patterns. Dual-tasking led to slower gait speed, increased step width, and a higher percentage of double support, alongside increased Lyapunov exponents and decreased UCM indices-indicating reduced gait stability and adaptability. Conversely, external focus improved most gait parameters. These findings highlight the critical role of attentional strategies in maintaining gait stability and suggest their relevance in motor control, learning, and rehabilitation programs.