An individual’s focus of attention has an important
influence on the performance of motor skills (Bliss, 1982). Focus of attention
can be defined simply, as the information at which the performer’s attention or
consciousness is directed (Schmidt and Wrisberg, 2000). People have the ability
to control two dimensions of attention; the direction of the focus and the
breadth of the focus. With regards to the direction of focus, it is important
to distinguish between internal focus and external focus. Internal focus refers
to the information associated with the body’s movement in producing the action.
Inversely, external focus refers to the information that is the consequence of
the action being produced. This blog is the first of a three part series with the
aim of this blog series being to examine the direction of focus of attention within
a sport and performance context. This blog will begin by exploring literature
surrounding focus of attention and examine previous key studies. The second
blog will explore focus of attention and its relevance the sporting performance
and will include a critical analysis of the literature. The final blog will
conclude by offering some practical applications and area for future research.
Wulf et al. (2013) examined the motor learning advantages
of an external focus of attention relative to an internal focus for a short
golf shot. Participants from the internal and external focus groups were given
standardised instructions on the golf shot, prior to completing multiple
performance trials. Instructions regarding focus of attention differed between
the two groups. The internal focus group was instructed to focus on their body
movements, whereas the external focus group was instructed to focus on the
movements of the golf club. Results from the trials both practice and 24-post
indicated that the external focus group achieved significantly better results. From
this, Wulf et. al. concluded that an external focus of attention advantageous
for motor learning during a golf swing.
Similar to findings by Wulf et al. (2013), Zarghami et
al. (2012) discovered external focus to enhance discus throwing performance
when compared to internal focus. Participants were instructed to either
concentrate on their hand and wrist on the throwing side (internal focus group)
or concentrate on the discus particularly on the landing of the discus
(external focus group). Results indicated significant differences between the
two control conditions in favour of the external focus group. Conclusions
suggested that coaches and practitioners give instructions that promote an
external focus of attention.
Further evidence supporting an external focus of
attention was observed in a study by Ille et al. (2013). This study examined
the effects of internal and external focus of attention of a sprint start. Ille
et al. measured performance in running time and reaction time. Both reaction
time and running time were significantly shorter in the external focus
condition when compared to the internal focus condition. These results
confirmed the beneficial effects of an external focus of attention on the speed
of movement execution and affirmed findings from previous studies.
Freudenheim et al. (2010) examined the effects of
attentional focus on swimming speed. Participants were instructed to focus on
either “pulling hands back” or “pushing the instep down” (internal focus) or on
“pushing the water back/down” (external focus). Times were significantly faster
in the external focus compared with the internal focus conditions. These
findings confirm the results of previous studies on focus of attention. From
findings in the study it was concluded that individuals who adopt an external
relative to an internal focus of attention demonstrated greater movement
efficiency.
In conclusion, focus of attention has relevance for motor
learning and performance. Results from a multitude of studies indicate that
individuals who adopt an external focus of attention relative to an internal
focus of attention demonstrate an increase in performance. The benefits of
utilising an external focus of attention are shown in a number of different
skills and sports including (but not limited to) golf, discus, sprinting and
swimming. Focus of attention has implications for sporting performance. The next
blog will explore the research methodologies and include a critical analysis of
the literature.
References
Bliss, C. B. (1892). Investigations in
reaction-time and attention.
Freudenheim, A. M., Wulf, G., Madureira,
F., Pasetto, S. C., & Corrêa, U. C. (2010). Original Research: An External
Focus of Attention Results in Greater Swimming Speed. International
Journal of Sports Science and Coaching, 5(4), 533-542.
Ille, A., Selin, I., Do, M. C., &
Thon, B. (2013). Attentional focus effects on sprint start performance as a
function of skill level.
Schmidt, R. A., & Wrisberg, C. A.
(2000). Motor learning and performance (Vol.
3). Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics.
Wulf, G., Lauterbach, B., & Toole, T.
(1999). The learning advantages of an external focus of attention in golf. Research
Quarterly for Exercise and Sport,70(2), 120-126.
Zarghami, M., Saemi, E., & Fathi, I.
(2012). External focus of attention enhances discus throwing performance. Kinesiology, 44(1), 47-51.
