Synchronization and temporal processing

•Humans have the ability to flexibly synchronize movement with sensory input.•Sensory-motor synchronization (SMS) is part of a rich range of rhythmic capabilities.•Research on SMS is vibrant, addressing neural mechanisms, evolution, and culture.•SMS is relevant for education and health, both diagnostically and therapeutically.•The impact of the motor system on perception is an active topic of research.

Humans have the ability to flexibly synchronize motor output with sensory input, such as when dancing, performing, walking in step with a partner, or just tapping a foot along with music. The study of these behaviors, collectively called sensory-motor synchronization (SMS) offers an important window into human timing behavior and the neural mechanisms that support it. The study of SMS also provides insight into how the brain actively shapes our perception, general cognitive functions and our cultural social identity as humans. In this brief review, we will place SMS into a larger conceptual framework and highlight a rapidly expanding body of recent research.