Title

When does imagery practice enhance performance on a motor task?

Authors

Authors

M. Bohan; J. A. Pharmer;A. F. Stokes

Comments

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Abbreviated Journal Title

Percept. Mot. Skills

Keywords

MENTAL PRACTICE; Psychology, Experimental

Abstract

Imagery practice of motor tasks has been recommended for a wide range of activities as from flight training to basketball. A key question, both from a practical and a theoretical standpoint, is when during the learning process does imagery practice confer the most benefit? However, the literature does not provide clear guidance, in part because of methodological limitations. A 3 x 2 (physical practice x pretest-posttest) split-plot design was employed to investigate the effects of imagery practice on the acquisition of a discrete target at three different stages of learning. Analysis indicated that imagery practice was most beneficial in the early stages of learning and showed an inverse relationship between experience and efficacy of imagery practice. Results are discussed in terms of current theories of imagery practice and suggestions are made regarding when such practice might be best applied during skill development.

Journal Title

Perceptual and Motor Skills

Volume

88

Issue/Number

2

Publication Date

1-1-1999

Document Type

Article

Language

English

First Page

651

Last Page

658

WOS Identifier

WOS:000080358400048

ISSN

0031-5125

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