Variation in motor learning is like adding spice to your practice routine! It involves changing up your movements and the conditions in which you practice, making your skills more robust and adaptable.
Repeated practice strengthens the neural pathways involved in the skill, making it more automatic.
Learning to handle variations makes you more prepared for unexpected challenges and changes in your environment.
Variation encourages your brain to explore different movement solutions, making you a more efficient mover.
Varied practice creates stronger memories for movements and thinking, helping you retain skills for the long haul.
Moving in different ways helps prevent overuse injuries and promotes balanced muscle development.
Practice your skills in different locations. Vary the surface you walk on, the lighting, and the surroundings.
Change the speed, force, or complexity of your movements during practice
Add obstacles to your walking path, practice with distractions, or try doing two things at once (like walking and talking).
Work with your therapist to create a varied practice plan that aligns with your specific goals and needs.
Embrace variation in your practice and experience the freedom and confidence that comes with adaptable and resilient motor skills!
Schmidt, R. A., & Lee, T. D. (2011). Motor control and learning: A behavioral emphasis. Human Kinetics.
Magill, R. A., & Hall, K. G. (1990). A review of the contextual interference effect in motor skill acquisition. Human movement science, 9(3-5), 241-289.1
For more information, please consult with your healthcare provider.
Part-to-whole task training is a rehabilitation technique that breaks down complex tasks into smaller, more manageable steps.
Part-to-whole task training is a rehabilitation technique that breaks down complex tasks into smaller, more manageable steps.
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