CSM 2017 San Antonio, TX, Saturday, 2/18/17, 3-5 pm, Academy of Neurologic PT
Optimizing Motor Learning in Rehabilitation: OPTIMAL Theory and Applications
Rebecca Lewthwaite, PhD,1,2 Gabriele Wulf, PhD,3 and Mike Studer, PT, MHS, NCS, CEEAA,
CWT, CSST4
1
2
Rancho Los Amigos National Rehabilitation Center, Downey, CA, University of Southern California, Los
3
4
Angeles, CA, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, Las Vegas, NV, Northwest Rehabilitation Associates,
Salem, OR
MOTIVATION
Course Description:
Evidence has been accumulating that indicates a new perspective on motor learning is in order.
Recently, Wulf and Lewthwaite (2016) published the Optimizing Performance Through Intrinsic
Motivation and Attention for Learning (OPTIMAL) Theory. The OPTIMAL theory centers on the
conditions of practice (enhanced expectancies for future performance, autonomy support, and
an external focus of attention) that facilitate efficient goal-action coupling for motor performance
and learning. When paired with practice, these conditions align thoughts, motivation, attention, and
neural and neuromuscular systems to the performer’s goals. We discuss key findings, theory
tenets, and implications and clinical applications for establishing optimal motor learning conditions
for rehabilitation.
Optimizing Performance Through Intrinsic Motivation
and Attention for Learning:
The OPTIMAL theory of motor learning
Autonomy
SELF-FOCUS
Enhanced
expectancies
ATTENTION
Goal-ac'on
coupling
FOCUS
ONTASKGOAL
Motor
performance
Motor
learning
External
focus
Select References:
Wulf G, Lewthwaite R. Optimizing performance through intrinsic motivation and attention for
learning: The OPTIMAL theory of motor learning. Psychon Bull Rev. 2016. DOI:
http://dx.doi.org/10.3758/s13423-015-0999-9.
Optimizing Motor Learning in Rehabilitation: OPTIMAL Theory and Applications, CSM, Feb. 18, 2017.
This information is the property of Rebecca Lewthwaite, Gabriele Wulf, & Mike Studer and should not be
copied or otherwise used without express written permission of the first author.
1
Chiviacowsky SC, Wulf G, Lewthwaite R, Campos T. Motor learning benefits of self-controlled
practice in persons with Parkinson’s disease. Gait Posture. 2012; 35:601-605.
Fasoli SE, Trombly CA, Tickle-Degnen L, Verfaellie MH. Effect of instructions on functional reach in
persons with and without cerebrovascular accident. Am J Occup Ther. 2002; 56:380-390.
Hooyman A, Wulf G, Lewthwaite R. Impacts of autonomy-supportive versus controlling instructional
language on motor learning. Human Mov Sci. 2014; 36:190-198.
Hutchinson JC, Sherman T, Martinovic N, Tenenbaum G. The effect of manipulated self-efficacy on
perceived and sustained effort. J Appl Sport Psychol. 2008; 20:457-472.
Kuhn Y-A, Keller M, Ruffieux J, Taube W. Adopting an external focus of attention alters intracortical
inhibition within the primary motor cortex. Acta Physiolog (Oxf). 2016; doi: 10.1111/apha.12807
Milton J, Solodkin A, Hluštík P, Small SL. The mind of expert motor performance is cool and
focused. NeuroImage. 2007; 35:804-813.
Pasqua LAM, Wulf G, Lewthwaite R. Additive benefits of external focus and enhanced performance
expectancy for motor learning. J Sports Sci. 2014; 33: 58-66.
Patall EA, Cooper H, Robinson JC. The effects of choice on intrinsic motivation and related
outcomes: a meta-analysis of research findings. Psychol Bull. 2008; 134:270-300.
Stoate I, Wulf G, Lewthwaite R. Enhanced expectancies improve movement efficiency in runners. J
Sports Sci. 2012, 30:815-823.
Trempe M, Sabourin M, Proteau L. Success modulates consolidation of a visuomotor adaptation
task. J Exp Psychol Learn Mem Cogn. 2012; 38:52–60.
Winstein C, Lewthwaite R, Blanton SR, Wolf LB, Wishart L. Infusing contemporary motor learning
research into neurorehabilitation practice: a historical framework with the Accelerated Skill
Acquisition Program exemplar. Journal of Neurologic Physical Therapy, 2014;38:190–200.
Wulf G. Attentional focus and motor learning: a review of 15 years. Int Rev Sport Exerc Psychol.
2013; 6: 77-104.
Wulf G, Dufek JS. Increased jump height with an external focus due to enhanced lower extremity
joint kinetics. J Mot Behav. 2009; 41:410-409.
Optimizing Motor Learning in Rehabilitation: OPTIMAL Theory and Applications, CSM, Feb. 18, 2017.
This information is the property of Rebecca Lewthwaite, Gabriele Wulf, & Mike Studer and should not be
copied or otherwise used without express written permission of the first author.
2