1/4 H Neuro #138 - Studies on Archaic Reflexes? with Julie Bastière

Introduction to Archaic Reflexes

In this episode of the podcast, we are pleased to welcome Julie Bastière, a physical trainer and PhD candidate, to discuss archaic reflexes. Julie shares her background and explains why this topic is crucial in the field of sports.

Research on Archaic Reflexes

Julie emphasizes that there are few reliable studies on archaic reflexes, particularly in the sports field. She has embarked on a thesis aimed at exploring this subject and making theoretical contributions. Although research has mainly been conducted on young children, there is a lack of studies regarding elite athletes.

The Research Process

Julie's thesis began with a preliminary assessment, allowing for the recognition of the importance of reflexes in a sports population. The initial results showed that over 75% of athletes had archaic reflexes, raising questions about their integration.

Validation of Measurement Scales

A fundamental aspect of her work has been to validate the scales used to measure these reflexes. Julie tested several players to check the consistency of the results over a three-month period. She found that sports practice alone was not sufficient to integrate these reflexes, highlighting the importance of targeted work.

Impact of Reflexes on Sports Performance

Beyond the validation of scales, Julie explored the impact of reflexes on on-field performance. Video analyses of players revealed that those exhibiting more archaic reflexes tended to have more technical and tactical errors.

Test Results

The results were categorized according to the percentage of active reflexes, indicating that even a low percentage could affect motor skills and performance. Julie discovered that a high overall score could be associated with lower technical performance.

Conclusions and Future Perspectives

Julie concludes by emphasizing that the integration of archaic reflexes requires time and focused work. She discusses the challenges faced in her research and the importance of raising awareness among coaches and trainers about these issues. The episode highlights the need for a deeper approach regarding archaic reflexes in sports.

Invitation to Follow Julie Bastière

For those who wish to learn more about the subject, you can follow Julie on Instagram. Her work promises to provide valuable insights into archaic reflexes and their impact in the sports field.