3.1.2.2 Practice for learning Learning objectives To understand the methods and types of practice used by coaches. To identify and justify the link between skill classification and practice structure.

Methods and types of practice Photo by: © istock Photo Watch me How many different ways are there to practice?

Methods of Practice The type of practice used will depend on the skills to be improved. Coaches will use a practice method that suits the performers personality and their learning needs. Whole practice: This practice involves repeating the whole series of actions. Gymnastic skills and games activities are easier to perform as a whole. The actions can be performed over and over to perfect them. i.e. gymnastics vault – to be effective the whole action should be performed in its entirety.

Methods of Practice Whole – Part – Whole practice: This method involves using both types of practice in combination. Firstly, the action is performed as a full then elements of the skill are practiced. Finally, the whole action is tried again. i.e. A beginner may be asked to try the full lay-up and then isolate various parts and eventually practice the it as a whole again.

Methods of Practice Progressive-part method of practice: This practice involves learning several sub-routines to form the whole movement. Each part is practiced with the next link added each time. The full action can then be ‘pieced’ together. Sometimes this is referred to as segmentation or chaining. i.e. A tennis serves can be broken down into a number of sub-routines or parts: Ball toss Racket preparation Serve action + contact Follow through

Types of Practice Massed practice: Massed practice is when no rest intervals are given between each component of the training session. It is used when a coach wants to promote a high level of fitness. i.e. A coach putting a team of footballers through a 1 hour fitness session none stop. Players should be able to cope with 45 minute halves.

Types of Practice Massed practice is appropriate for: Simple skills that demand little attention, so the performer can still focus on the task after numerous attempts. Discrete skills with a clear end. These are usually short and sharp and can be undertaken easily without a rest.

Types of Practice Distributed practice: Distributed practice is when a rest interval is given to allow recuperation. Feedback, coaching and advice on technique can be given during the interval. Distributed practice is appropriate for: Beginners, who can focus on the next part of the skill during the break. Performers who are unfit. Performers who need encouragement from the coach to improve motivation.

Types of Practice Variable practice: Varied practice involves using different methods to achieve a learning goal, or performing a task in different situations. It aims to provide the performer with the ability to adapt a skill to a range of possible circumstances. This method is appropriate for open skills, where the sporting environment tends to change. Varied practice is often used with beginners, because it allows them to progress when more difficult elements of the task are added to those they are already familiar with.

Types of Practice Mental practice: This practice involves the performer rehearsing a task mentally often using imagery techniques. Mental practice is the cognitive (thinking) rehearsal of a physical skill without movement. It is effective both for skill learning and preparing for competition.

Skill classification and types of practice Knowing how to classify skills will impact on the type of practice selected in order to optimise performance. Some types of practice are better suited to skills that differ in muscular involvement. i.e. gross/fine

Apply it! What has stuck with you? Explain what is meant by whole-part-whole practice. Describe the difference between massed and distributed practice Why is progressive-part practice seen as a good way to develop beginners? What are the benefits of variable practice? Methods and Types of Practice Photos by: LOCOG

Practice it! Exam questions Massed and distributed practices can be used to develop skills. Explain why you might choose to use massed practice rather than distributed practice.

Practice it! Marks Scheme: 1. Factors concerning performer that affect decision: M. (Stage of learning) – Massed for autonomous performer/ distributed for cognitive performer N. (Fitness) – Massed for very fit performer/ distributed for less fit O. (Motivation) – Massed for highly motivated performer/distributed for less motivated Factors concerning task that affect decision: P. (Complexity) – Massed for simple skills/distributed for complex/strenuous Q. (Continuity) – Massed for discrete skills/ distributed for continuous skills R. (Muscles used) – Massed for fine skills/ distributed for gross skills S. (Time available) – Massed when time is limited/distributed when plenty of time available T. (Speed of action) – Massed for quick/rapid skills/distributed for long-lasting skills U. (Safety) – Massed when no danger/ distributed when potential danger