A.D.A.P.T or whither ...

When we are exposed to a new technique it’s good standard practice go through the following process: Analyse, Drill And Pressure Test. It goes like this:

Firstly, I like to analyse a technique, break it down into it’s component parts, and understand how it works. Understanding how something works qualifies us to fine-tune it and make those minute adjustments necessary to implement it under ‘live’ conditions. Understanding how something works also makes it easier to break it down and impart it to others. This part of the process is mandatory for those with coaching/teaching aspirations.

Secondly, once I understand it, I like to drill it. There’s no substitution for repetition. Repetition hardwires the physical process into our neurology. Repetition also locks the new move into our long-term memory. Repetition ‘smoothes-out’ the process.

Thirdly, I like to pressure-test it. This means applying it against a resistant opponent. Pressure-testing highlights any weaknesses that may be inherent in the move and exposes the opponents most likely reactions and responses to it. If possible we should pressure-test it in a progressive fashion; starting with easy opponents and working our way up to skilled opponents. This is the phase that will usually make or break a new move. Most people, if they experience too much ‘failure’ during this stage, decide to abandon the technique and begin the process over with something new.

So next time you have the opportunity to get hold of a new technique, try running it through the A.D.A.P.T model. I hope it works well for you,
Train smart,
JBW