Video and visualization

Video clip n°1 : backhand slice

Imitation is the learning method by excellence. It is both simple and universal. Studies have shown that the careful observation of a movement executed by a champion arouses unconscious muscular micro-contractions in the viewer’s body, which correspond exactly to the muscles involved in the observed movement. If the observer plays shortly afterwards, there remain "markers" on his neuro-muscular memory that have the effect of giving him gestural sensations that are close to the champion’s. This phenomenon, well known among tennis players, has the name of Carpenter effect. This effect is very interesting as far as technical learning is concerned. Furthermore, other scientific studies have shown that mental visualization of a movement creates the same effect, from a cerebral and neuro-muscular point of view. To make the most of this double effect, a very good idea is to regularly show players videos of champions and use visualization to stabilise movements and further their memorization.

This month, practice mentally your backhand slice with a video especially conceived to ease visualization :

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To practice efficiently, use the following 4 steps visualization method ( 6 mn ) :
1/ Watch the video a first time to memorize the movement ( 1 mn 30 s )
2/ Repeat mentally the backhand slice on your mental screen ( 1 mn 30 s )
3/ Watch the video a second time to anchor the movement ( 1 mn 30 s )
4/ Stand up and shadow your backhand slice while you go on visualizing ( 1 mn 30 s )

Use this visualization method as often as possible to deeply anchor your backhand slice technique. And of course, go and practice on court keeping in mind these images...

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