Single Feed practice is a drill where the performer focuses on the skill itself or aspects of the skill. This gives the performer the opportunity to focus on the movement patterns that need improvement without the distraction of the game and/or other skills. Be ready with several drills that are progressive. For instance, multiple feed practices are more challenging and also ensure repetition.

R = Repetition (used with every other type of practice)

During practice it is vital that movement patterns are repeated until the body systems (muscle and nerves) have learned to move ‘automatically’ in the newly learned way. The movement will be grooved into the muscle’s memory. Remember to justify why – Why is 10 not enough or why is 30 too many? If 30 is too much, then you could change to 3 sets of 10 and then justify why, write about fatigue or moving onto new practices to provide variety and hold interest.

 

To begin, the practice is done with no opposition. This allows the learner to learn the movement patterns unopposed. Passive opposition is then introduced which gradually becomes more active. Later the skill can be attempted in conditioned games (Method also used when developing tactics).

 

Once a skill has been established in a pressure situation, pressure can be gradually increased to groove the skill whilst considering time and fatigue factors. The chances of the improved skill being used successfully in a game are greatly increased after pressure training.

 

Rule imposed on the game to encourage the use of a particular shot. For example, to encourage net play, the court can be shortened.

 

For a programme to be effective, the correct learning approach must be selected. The method of learning is directly related to the ‘stage of learning’ and ‘open/closed’ situations.

            Gradual Build Up

It allows you to learn the skill in natural progressions, making it easier to learn step by step.

Information load is kept to a minimum at early stages – easier to learn.

Attention to vital aspects is enhanced and fatigue is minimised.

            Whole-Part-Whole

This is an ideal method of learning where only part of the technique is in need of improvement.

You are able to work on specific aspects thus not wasting time or being bored by working on areas of strength within the technique.

This method allows immediate transfer from working on part of the skill into the ‘whole’ skill to see if success is being achieved.

For example Shadow practice is a type of whole/part/whole learning we use in Badminton. The movement patterns are learned without the distraction of the shuttle or the game. Movement patterns are practised separately e.g. practising the chasse step and lunging movement towards the net, mimicking net play.

            Whole Skill     *The Method of Learning we mostly use in Badminton*

Discrete Skills, e.g. golf swing/high jump, should not be broken down; instead they should be practised as a whole, with the individual concentrating on one aspect at a time.

With skills in which parts are synchronised in time, whole practice is favoured.

Learner will benefit from practices which resemble the whole game or skill.