Evolution of Views on the Relationship Between Voluntary Movements and Their Mental Images

Abstract

Introduction. Mental rehearsal of motor skill performance improves its coordination and effectiveness. However, mental image has been considered to be a hypothetical basis for voluntary movements even before its practical use begins. The present paper provides an original view on the current motor imagery understanding as a resolution of conflicts inherent to earlier concepts. The compatibility between historical and modern motor
imagery theories is discussed. Thereby, revision of some of existing recommendations  concerning mental imagery use in sports is underpinned.  Theoretical Basis. Ideomotor theory was the first concept considering mental imagery
as a basis for voluntary movements. T. Laycock and W. B. Carpenter described motor consequences of uncontrolled expression of a dominant idea. In the context of H. Herbart’s, R. H. Lotze’s, and E. Harless’ work, this phenomenon can be viewed more broadly in the light of systemic role of mental imagery in controlling movements. A number of instrumental studies of involuntary motor activity during movement imagination provided experimental confirmation of such phenomena and supported scientific interest in the  ideomotor theory when it was criticized by the behaviorism. In the modern period, to  resolve existing contradictions, M. Jeannerod has suggested considering the motor
image as a conscious representation of neurophysiological processes underlying the corresponding movement, which is formed in the absence of inactivating afferent  response of effector organs. Results and Discussion. The modern understanding of the motor imagery focuses on its  equivalence to the actual movement in terms of the underlying central neurophysiologica processes and their functions, including formation of skills with the repetition of
a corresponding movement. Following P. F. Lesgaft’s idea, an individual’s cognitive analysis of movements and understanding of its logical structure by means of mental  imagery play an important role in motor learning, especially in its initial stages. Herewith, research shows that cognitive and motor processes are closely intertwined.