Which guidance technique is often used to help new athletes learn a skill?

Mechanical guidance is a technique that provides physical support or assistance to help new athletes learn a skill. This can involve the use of equipment, such as harnesses, mats, or other devices that aid in the execution of the movement. For example, a coach might use a harness to help a gymnast learn a new trick, ensuring their safety while they practice the mechanics of the skill.

This type of guidance is especially beneficial for beginners who may not yet have developed the necessary strength, coordination, or confidence to perform a skill independently. Mechanical guidance allows them to experience the correct movement patterns while minimizing the risk of injury, ultimately enhancing their learning experience and building their competence in the skill.

Other options are relevant in coaching contexts but serve different purposes. Mass practice involves continuous repetition of a skill, which may not provide the initial support needed for new athletes. Intrinsic feedback refers to the natural sensory information an athlete gets from performing an action, while extrinsic feedback involves external cues or comments from others. Neither of these focuses on the direct physical assistance that is pivotal for skill acquisition in beginners, making mechanical guidance the more effective option in this scenario.