Perceiving red decreases motor performance over time: A pilot study

Abstract Introduction Colors may influence motor performance. Objective The present study aimed to compare the effects of perception of red and green environments on physical (performance and heart rate) and psychological (perceived effort, anxiety and enjoyment) parameters during cycling trials. Method Ten cyclists achieved two identical series of three randomized 7-minute trials on home trainers, during which they were continuously exposed to red, green, and gray environments. Covered distance and heart rate were recorded during each trial, after which participants answered items intended to assess perceived effort, anxiety, and enjoyment experienced during the trial. Results Results showed that covered distance ( p s ≤ .02) and heart rate ( p s ≤ .03) were lower in the red environment than in the gray and green environments. Enjoyment was higher in the green environment than in the red environment ( p  = .006). The colored environments did not influence perceived effort and anxiety ( p s > .05). Conclusion This study is the first to show that perceiving red is detrimental for motor performance over an extended period of time.