Question

Does muscle memory exist?

Answer 1

Yes, muscle memory does exist, which is a form of procedural memory that involves consolidating a specific motor task into memory through repetition.

Explanation:

Some actions are hardwired into our brain, such as riding a bike and using chopsticks.

There are two parts to the brain - declarative memory and procedural memory. We will be focusing more on procedural memory.

The type of memory which understands the ‘how and what’ of things is the procedural memory, which is basically attributed to keeping a ‘know-how’ of things. It is an unconscious memory, which helps you understand how stuff works. For instance, once you learn how to ride a bike, you can never forget it because it gets stored in the procedural memory, making it almost impossible to get out. Primarily, procedural memory consists of the use of objects, as well as movements of the body. For instance, if you learn how to play a musical instrument, for instance, a guitar, you will not be able to forget it.

However, there are exceptions, in which one may suffer from brain damage or inner ear imbalance, making picking up this skills more difficult.