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Chronotype-dependent modulation of gait under cognitive load: evidence from dual-task paradigms in young adults

neuroscience
cognitive-disorders
kinesiology
biomechanics
rehabilitation

Abstract

Background. Chronotype, reflecting individual circadian preferences, influences a range of physiological and cognitive functions. Despite growing interest in how chronotype affects motor behavior, limited research has explored its role in dual-task gait performance among healthy young adults. This study investigates the impact of chronotype on gait performance under varying cognitive dual-task conditions.

Methods. Sixty-nine healthy young adults (mean age: 21.28 ± 2.83 years) were assessed using the Morningness–Eveningness Questionnaire (MEQ) to determine chronotype. Gait spatiotemporal parameters were recorded using a 3D motion capture system under single-task and three dual-task walking conditions: backward spelling (5LWB), serial subtraction (SS7), and reverse month recitation (RMR). The dual-task cost (DTC) was computed for each parameter. Correlations between MEQ scores and DTCs were analyzed using Spearman’s rho.

Results. Participants displayed varying degrees of gait performance changes under dual-task conditions, with the 5LWB task showing the highest DTC. Significant correlations were observed between chronotype and DTC, indicating that individuals with an evening chronotype experienced greater gait performance decline, especially during phonologically demanding tasks. Morning chronotypes demonstrated better preservation of gait efficiency during cognitive dual-tasks.

Conclusions. Chronotype significantly affects dual-task gait performance in healthy young adults, particularly in tasks involving higher executive and phonological demands. These findings suggest that chronotype screening should be considered in clinical and rehabilitative settings to optimize performance outcomes through personalized intervention timing.

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