Finding the optimal quantity and quality of practice to maximize learning for an individual or group can be difficult. Furthermore, practicing skills is typically done under time constraints. The Challenge Point Framework (CPF) can help design practice for optimal skill learning and performance.

The CPF describes how the task difficulty (dependent on the skill level of the athlete) and the potential available information to the athlete (i.e., too much or too little information) interacts to represent the “challenge” of the practice environment. The interaction between the task difficulty and potential available information can be used to set the“optimal challenge point” (OCP) for the athlete. Optimally challenging practice may enhance skill learning and transfer (from practice to the performance environment).

Read more:

Thomas, A., Paul, L., Rasenyalo, S., Jones, B., & Hendricks, S. (2025). Challenge Accepted: A Systematic Scoping Review of the Applications of the Challenge Point Framework. Journal of Motor Behavior, 1-19.

Guadagnoli, M. A., & Lee, T. D. (2004). Challenge point: a framework for conceptualizing the effects of various practice conditions in motor learning. Journal of motor behavior, 36(2), 212-224.