Effective skill refinement: Focusing on process to ensure outcome

Carson, H.J., orcid iconORCID: 0000-0002-3785-606X and Collins, D. orcid iconORCID: 0000-0002-7601-0454 (2014) Effective skill refinement: Focusing on process to ensure outcome. Central European Journal of Sport Sciences and Medicine, 7 (3). pp. 5-21.

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Abstract

In contrast to the abundance of motor skill acquisition and performance research, there is a paucity of work which addresses how athletes with an already learnt and well-established skill may go about making a subtle change, or refinement, to that skill.
Accordingly, the purpose of this review paper is to provide a comprehensive overview of current understanding pertaining to such practice. Specifically, this review addresses deliberately initiated refinements to closed and self-paced skills (e.g., javelin throwing, golf swing and horizontal jumps). In doing so, focus is directed to three fundamental considerations within applied coaching practice and future research endeavours; the intended outcomes, process and evaluative measures of skill refinement. Conclusions suggest that skill refinement is not the same as skill acquisition or performing already learnt skills with high-levels of automaticity. Due to the complexity of challenge faced, refinements are best addressed as an interdisciplinary solution, with objective measures informing coach decision making.


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