When is mental practice and motor imagery most effective?

Mental practice and motor imagery are most effective when used in conjunction with physical practice. This combined approach enhances skill acquisition and performance because it allows the learner to mentally rehearse movements while simultaneously developing muscle memory through physical repetition. The integration of both mental and physical practices can lead to greater improvements in performance, as mental imagery helps reinforce the motor pathways created during active practice.

Independently applying mental practice without physical involvement may limit the connection between cognitive understanding and physical execution. Similarly, using mental imagery solely during skill assessments does not provide the contextual learning and feedback necessary for improvement. While taking breaks during practice can be beneficial for recovery and reflection, the synergistic effect achieved by pairing mental imagery with physical practice is what optimally contributes to learning and refinement of skills.