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RSwordsman t1_j6gmqr7 wrote

It's not actually the muscles, just a different part of the brain. The connections associated with the movement you want get stronger over a lot of repetition. If I'm not mistaken it's mostly the back part of your brain called the cerebellum that controls this, and as the slang term suggests, you don't have to actively think about it. Very handy for things you need to do precisely, quickly, and often, like throwing in sports.

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bestuzernameever t1_j6gof4y wrote

Or stupid stuff like flipping on a light switch in a dark room. Close your eyes and touch the wall then look and you’ll be amazed how close to the right height you are!

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thisusedyet t1_j6hzi93 wrote

'Learned Reflex' may be more understandable than muscle memory.

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SwivelingToast t1_j6jb1p9 wrote

I like the Piano (or I guess any instrument) for this. I know exactly where the keys are for whatever song I'm paying, but it's all subconscious. If I look and actively try to see where the next key is, I can't play. But blind, my fingers just know, after years of doing the same motions.

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