Translating Thoughts Into Action: Optimizing Motor Performance and Learning Through Brief Motivational and Attentional Influences

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

12-1-2021

Publication Title

Current Directions in Psychological Science

Volume

30

Issue

6

First page number:

535

Last page number:

541

Abstract

Skilled motor performance is essential in sports, the performing arts, various occupations, and many daily activities. Scientists and practitioners alike are therefore interested in understanding the conditions that influence the performance and learning of movement skills, and how they can be utilized to optimize training. In OPTIMAL theory, three motivational and attentional factors are key: enhanced expectancies for future performance, the performer’s autonomy, and an external focus of attention. We review recent evidence suggesting that each factor contributes independently to strengthen the coupling of goals to actions. This work has implications ranging from fostering more effective skill development in novice learners, to increasing the efficiency of athletes’ and musicians’ performance, and to facilitating the success of patients in regaining functional capabilities.

Keywords

Autonomy; Enhanced expectancies; External focus of attention; Motor skill; OPTIMAL theory

Disciplines

Motor Control | Neuroscience and Neurobiology

UNLV article access

Search your library

Share

COinS