The aim of this study was to ascertain if the prior-to-contact grasping kinematics vary when the goal of the grasp changes. Twenty subjects were used who were instructed, while wearing a sensory glove, to reach and grasp a bottle filled with water with the following different goals: reach and grasp; reach, lift and throw; reach and accurately place; reach grasp and pour; reach, grasp and pass. The sensors in the glove identified range and rate of movements of individual digits and the overall time for the reach to grasp and showed clear differences in both, dependent on the subsequent action. This study is one of only a small number which compare the independent digit movements producing hand shaping when the object remains the same yet the goal is different. The demonstration of the influence of after-grasp movements on the kinematics of the preceding prehension movements is discussed with reference to the importance of predictive motor control mechanisms.
