What best defines reaction time in sports?

Reaction time in sports specifically refers to the duration it takes for an individual to perceive a stimulus and begin to respond to it. This definition captures the critical aspect of how quickly an athlete can interpret what they see or hear and then act accordingly. In competitive sports, having a quick reaction time can be the difference between success and failure, as athletes often have only a fraction of a second to respond to plays, signals, or the actions of opponents.

For instance, in sports such as sprinting or swimming, athletes must react promptly to the starting gun or whistle, while in sports like football or basketball, players need to respond quickly to the movement of the ball or other players. Therefore, the emphasis on the time taken to respond reflects the essential nature of quick decision-making in athletic performance.