Skill Classifications and Practice Structures

Question 1

Explain how a coach would vary a training session when coaching open and closed skills [3]

Answer 1

If a skill is closed (like a penalty), practice should be in closed (fixed) conditions, as there are usually no external factors that affect the performance of the skill. If a skill is open (a pass), then it should be practiced in open conditions (using variable) practice, so that the player gets used to playing in a changing environment/under pressure

Question 2

Explain 2 reasons why massed practice would be suitable for an experienced basketball player

Answer 2

• Fit/good CV fitness, sp fatigue won’t
  negatively impact performance
• Know how to perform the skill, so breaks won’t be required
• Skills are already well learnt, so they are able to reinforce the correct action, and improve the consistency of the skill while under pressure in a game