That might describe the way you should feel in a practice session. You practice repetitions should be so focused on the micro details of the skill you are working on that you are using every piece of mental focus you have. This is one of the reasons why I recommend using active visualization during practice in one of my books. [Actively seeing what you are about to do before you do it in your mind]
In a previous article, I asked what your plan was. If you answered (yourself) and came up with one, the next step is to implement your plan and execute your practice reps as perfectly as you possibly can. This is a critical part of improving. Oher than having a plan, this concept is the single most important part of the skill development process.
I know you have heard this. “Perfect practice makes perfect!” I am not sure who said that, but I am telling you to do it. Like Nike, “Just Do It.” Being mentally connected for each repetition is a big advantage. Remember that every single repetition you do wrong is ingrained in your subconscious. You can’t delete those bad reps.
You can’t delete those bad reps…
Make sure you are “chunking” your skill practice. That means breaking something you are working on down into small chunks so you can more easily focus on those chunks. The current expense of ammunition (it is Jan 2020) makes it hard to shoot as many rounds for most people, so focus on each round fired.
This applies to all things you might be practicing. Shooting on the range? Every single round fired has key pieces you should be focusing on and trying to improve (recoil control, trigger, aiming). Practicing hand striking on a B.O.B.? Make sure you are specifically targeting a tiny spot on your bag that you want to hit. Working on strength in the gym? Engage with each repetition of a lift, focusing on absolute perfect form and mental connection.
Enough talk, you know what you need to do. Now that you have a plan, make sure your brain hurts after you practice, due to the amazing level of focus. It’s that simple.
Until Then – Train Hard!
Mike S.
