Vary practice conditions

Blocked practice (practicing the same skill under the same conditions) leads to more rapid gains in performance but limited transfer when variability is introduced. Random practice (adding variability and interleaving practice types) slows learning but improves retention and transfer.

Contextual interference effect

This is known as the contextual interference effect. Low contextual interference is associated with blocked, low variable practice situations. Rapid skill improvement occurs but learning is poor. Lower levels of GABA (the inhibitory neurotransmitter) were produced with random practice, while higher levels were produced with blocked practice.

Resources

JS North et al. The effect of consistent and varied follow-through practice schedules on learning a table tennis backhand. JOURNAL OF SPORTS SCIENCES 2019, VOL. 37, NO. 6, 613–620

S. Chalavi et al. The neurochemical basis of the contextual interference effect. Neurobiology of Aging 66 (2018) 85-96

L Pauwels et al. Challenge to Promote Change: The Neural Basis of the Contextual Interference Effect in Young and Older Adults. The Journal of Neuroscience, March 28, 2018 • 38(13):3333–3345

D Fazeli et al. Random Versus Blocked Practice to Enhance Mental Representation in Golf Putting. Perceptual and Motor Skills
2017, Vol. 124(3) 674–688