Liikumisaeg

Liikumisaeg is an Estonian term used to describe the duration of a movement. In a broad sense it refers to the time from the start of a movement until its completion. In biomechanics and psychology the concept is often called movement time and is used to assess motor performance, skill acquisition and efficiency of action. In transportation and urban planning, liikumisaeg may also describe the total time required to travel from one point to another, including walking, waiting and transfers.

Measuring liikumisaeg involves recording the moment movement begins and ends with appropriate timing devices. Methods range from precise motion capture and sensor-based measurements to simpler stopwatch timing in less formal settings. In experimental contexts liikumisaeg is frequently analyzed together with reaction time to separate the processes of planning and execution of movement.

Several factors influence liikumisaeg. Distance and path complexity, required speed, and movement accuracy play major roles, as do the mover’s age, fitness, skill level, fatigue, and the characteristics of equipment or tools used. Environmental conditions and motivation can also affect the duration.

Applications of the concept are widespread. In sports science and rehabilitation, liikumisaeg helps evaluate performance and guide training. In human–computer interaction and ergonomics, it informs design to minimize unnecessary delay. In transportation and urban studies, it contributes to understanding user experience and system efficiency. See also related terms such as liikumine (movement) and aeg (time).