From the
auditory cortex, the neural impulses of auditory rhythm stimulate the neural motor impulses,
resulting in the auditory motor entrainment described in the RAS technique. The
physiological mechanisms for this technique are based on interactions between auditory and
motor systems, or sound and movement. As the first element of music, rhythm has important
influences on motor control and function due to its recurring patterns and predictable cues.
Rhythmic cueing leads to synchronization that determines timing, cadence and dynamics of
physical movements (Thaut 1997). This occurs in both the upper and lower extremities, as
demonstrated by finger and toe tapping. Studies based on the RAS technique have used
music as an external time cue to regulate body movement and improve gait in adults with
disabilities such as Parkinson disease (Thaut 1997) and stroke (Jeong & Kim 2007).
Furthermore, relationship between musical rhythm and human movement has been shown to
increase physical activity maintenance in patients with pulmonary disease (Bauldoff et al.
2002) and in healthy older adults (Hamburg & Clair 2003). Thus, music is an auditory cue
for movement that can lead to the initiation and maintenance of physical activity in various
adult populations.