Tap Harder: Cognitive Inhibition and Induced Emotions Predict Tapping Force in Young and Older Adults.

Research on rhythmic auditory stimulation has generally focused on timing accuracy, largely neglecting applied force. Here, we examined the role of cognition, subjective factors, and musical properties in finger-tapping force. Cognitive inhibition inversely predicted force, whereas music inducing positive emotions predicted greater tapping force. Despite motor and cognitive declines with age, no effects of age on tapping force were observed, suggesting that some kinematic features may be spared in aging. Older adults only differed in rating higher perceived (but not induced) arousal in music. Cognitive inhibition may facilitate motor efficiency, while music that induces positive emotions may increase engagement.