The Effect of Motor-Mental Preperformance Routines on Motor Performance in Novice Learners

Two sequential studies were conducted to test the notion that preperformance routines (PPRs)
positively affect motor performance. The first study consisted of observations and interviews
with 115 elite athletes to explore crucial time periods and body positions inherent in expert
preparation for performing a golf putt, tennis serve, volleyball serve, and basketball free throw.
In the second study, we taught these features of PPR to novice performers: 240 male and
female high school students were assigned to two motor-mental PPR, and one control condition.
Findings revealed that PPR enhances motor performance and can be implemented at an
early stage of learning.