In what scenario might mental practice be preferred over physical practice?

Mental practice is particularly beneficial in scenarios where the conditions or skills to be refined are non-physical. This includes situations where visualization and cognitive rehearsal can play a crucial role in enhancing performance without the need for physical exertion. For example, an athlete can mentally practice a specific technique, strategy, or routine while visualizing the entire process in vivid detail. This type of mental rehearsal helps improve focus, solidifies learning, and enhances confidence by mentally preparing the athlete for actual performance.

In situations that are inherently non-physical, such as preparing for a competition or dealing with psychological barriers, mental practice can be more effective than physical practice. It allows the athlete to encounter and solve problems in the mind's eye, build their mental skills, and reduce anxiety by familiarizing themselves with the scenarios they will face.

The other scenarios presented may limit the effectiveness of mental practice. Fatigue might lead an athlete to prefer physical practice if it helps alleviate the sense of exhaustion, while timing could still require some physical rehearsal to perfect the execution. When practicing becomes exhausting, athletes may need a physical break rather than relying solely on mental practice to make advancements in their skills.