Always reach for your sunglasses when they slide off the dashboard of your car. reaction time test in pure form is that split-second attempt at saving them. Testing these fast decisions turns out to be occasionally a terrific way to pass time, a little competitive, and rather entertaining.

Still getting a lot of mileage is the ruler drop test. You open your palm, someone has a ruler, and you clench down when they drop it. Find where you caught it, then your reflex score is known. I have seen complete family “ruler leagues”—trash talk and all—break out in waiting rooms. The fastest grab comes from the oldest uncle occasionally; the little cousin occasionally shocks everyone with cat-like speed.

Of course, these days tech has taken the stage. Many online games test your ability to utilize your phone or mouse the second you see a color, hear a buzzer, or find an image. occasionally you click so late you wonder if you nodded asleep; occasionally you are lightning-fast. Top athletes and gamers utilize this type of technology for practice; it’s not only for show; quick responses frequently make all the difference between first and second place.

Is a rapid response ingrained in birth? Not quite exactly. One night of poor sleep can translate acute motions into sludge. too much sugar? You could start to respond before anything even begins. While her brother’s greatest marks follow morning cartoons, my neighbor claims she becomes faster after walking her dog. There is science in there someplace, but really it sometimes feels like magic.

Getting better at your reaction could provide for some enjoyment itself. Try bouncing a tennis ball off the wall and alternately catch it with both hands. See who can respond to random countdowns first, then mix clapping games with pals. When a prize is on line—even if it’s only who does the dishes—sibling rivalry reaches epic proportions.

You will instantly transform into a superhero. Quite likely not. You might, however, grab the last piece of pizza, stop your phone from face-planting, or just leave with a ridiculous tale. And that’s not a bad reward for a few focused minutes and laughs.