大象传媒

Characteristics of a skilled performance

The majority of sports require key characteristics to achieve a skilled performance. Skills are learned abilities that athletes acquire through training and practice. Skill may be defined as the ability to perform at a high standard effectively and efficiently.

Skilled performance

When watching a performer or performance, a skilled performance can be identified when demonstrating the following characteristics:

Golfer Rory McIlroy lines up a putt at the PGA Championship
Figure caption,
Rory McIlroy lines up a putt at the PGA Championship

Effectiveness

  • Accurate 鈥 eg playing the shot to where you want it to go
  • Consistency 鈥 eg you can repeat the shot over and over again
  • Controlled 鈥 eg the performer is in full control of the skill
  • Confidence 鈥 eg belief in ability
Gymnast Nadia Comaneci on the uneven bars, a performance that was awarded a perfect 10 in the 1976 Olympic Games
Figure caption,
Nadia Comaneci on the uneven bars, a performance that was awarded a perfect 10 in the 1976 Olympic Games

Efficiency

  • Technique 鈥 eg good technique that looks effortless
  • Fluent 鈥 eg actions are smooth and controlled
  • Aesthetic 鈥 eg the performance looks pleasing on the eye
Footballer Wayne Rooney scores for England against Uruguay
Figure caption,
Wayne Rooney scores for England against Uruguay

Responsive

  • Decision making - eg the performer makes correct decisions
  • Adaptive - eg the performer can change the performance depending on the situation