How fast do messages travel in the nervous system?

Messages in the nervous system, transmitted via neurons, can travel at varying speeds depending on the type of nerve fiber. In myelinated fibers, signals can reach speeds of up to 120 meters per second (about 268 miles per hour), while in unmyelinated fibers, speeds are significantly slower, averaging around 1 meter per second. The rapid transmission is crucial for quick reflexes and timely responses to stimuli.