According to research, which of the following will optimize performance when combining mental and physical practice?

The choice of mental practice followed by physical practice is supported by research on optimizing performance in skill acquisition and enhancement. This approach allows individuals to first visualize and mentally rehearse the actions involved in a skill, which can enhance understanding and preparation. By mentally practicing the task, learners create a cognitive map of the movements, which can lead to improved focus and efficiency when they transition to physical practice.

Integrating mental and physical practice in this way not only reinforces the neural pathways associated with the skill but also builds confidence, as performers can envision successful execution before attempting it physically. This combination capitalizes on the benefits of both mental imagery and kinesthetic practice, leading to better overall performance outcomes.

In contrast, other combinations may not optimize the performance to the same extent. For example, physical practice followed by skills rehearsal might not provide the same preparatory benefits that mental practice offers beforehand, while mental practice followed by cognitive rehearsal could lack the immediate application that physical practice entails.