How does a rider go from learning a skill to demonstrating consistency?

Well, riding skills involve the coordination of muscles and nerves to perform specific movements or tasks. This is known as motor learning. 

Motor learning is the process through which a person acquires, refines, and improves their motor skills. 

Progression can be broken into 3 stages. 

1. Cognitive Stage: In this initial stage, the rider focuses on understanding the task and the physical movements required to perform it. At this stage, the rider may rely heavily on conscious thought and instruction.

2. Associative Stage: During this stage, the rider begins to refine their movements through practice. They start to identify errors and make adjustments to improve performance. This is where the movements become more coordinated and efficient.

3. Autonomous Stage: In the final stage, the movements become almost automatic. The rider can perform the skill with minimal conscious effort and without the need for constant feedback. At this point the rider is demonstrating the skill consistently and fluidly.

How we design and execute a lesson influences the motor learning process. 

Stay tuned for more details and examples of how to continue forward growth in coming weeks.