In the world of athletics, there’s a simple truth: the more you practice with intention, the better you become. But not all practice is created equal. One of the most powerful tools in your training arsenal is Deep Practice—a method that pushes you to the very edge of your abilities, allowing you to make mistakes, learn from them, and ultimately achieve mastery.
So, what exactly is deep practice? In "The Talent Code", author Daniel Coyle describes it as a paradox: “Struggling in certain targeted ways—operating at the edges of your ability, where you make mistakes—makes you smarter.” It’s about intentionally challenging yourself, focusing on precision, and continuously improving through small adjustments.
One of my favorite ways to incorporate deep practice is through a game I like to call "Stick It!". The concept is straightforward yet incredibly effective: perform a skill and focus entirely on sticking the landing—no wobbles, no extra steps, just pure balance and control.
Here’s how you can try it out:
1. Set up your mat or area where you’ll perform the skill.
2. Start with a skill you’re comfortable with, then gradually move to more challenging ones.
3. Each time you land, focus on sticking it perfectly—your goal is to eliminate any unnecessary movement after your feet hit the ground.
4. Repeat the skill, making small adjustments until you can stick it consistently.
Why is this game so effective? Because it forces you to engage in deep practice by honing in on the details that make the difference. You’ll build strength, stability, and confidence in your landings, setting the foundation for more complex skills down the line.
Take the time to practice "Stick It!" during your next training session. You might be surprised at how much progress you can make by focusing on this one aspect of your performance. Remember, the key to mastery lies in the details—and deep practice is all about mastering those details.
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