Detecting rhythm for selectively controlling access via a programmable locking system includes the steps of detecting a plurality of primary taps made by a user; storing the time intervals as a primary input sequence; normalizing the primary input sequence; calculating a tolerance value; detecting a plurality of secondary taps made by a user; storing the time intervals as a secondary input sequence; normalizing the secondary input sequence; storing a plurality of difference values equal to the value of the differences between the corresponding time intervals of the normalized primary and secondary input sequences; generating a secondary input sequence range equal to the value of the range between the minimum and maximum values of the difference values; and providing access via the programmable locking system when the value of the secondary input sequence range is lower than the tolerance value of the primary input vibration sequence.