At what speed should a skill ideally be mentally rehearsed according to research?

The ideal speed for mental rehearsal of a skill, according to research, is at real time or the same speed it takes to actually perform the skill. Mental rehearsal allows individuals to visualize and practice skills mentally without the physical exertion involved. By rehearsing at the same speed as the actual performance, individuals can effectively coordinate their cognitive processes with the physical requirements of the skill. This synchrony helps in developing a more accurate and efficient execution of the skill when it is performed physically.

Practicing at this speed allows the athlete or performer to engage with the timing and rhythm necessary for successful execution. Mental rehearsal at real time fosters a stronger neural connection and enhances muscle memory, making the transition from mental to physical execution smoother and more seamless.

In contrast, other speeds, such as faster than real time or slightly slower, may not provide the same benefits in terms of cognitive alignment with physical execution. Faster rehearsals can lead to a disconnect between thought and action, while slower rehearsals might undermine the timing and rhythm that are critical for performance. Variable speed demonstrations can be useful for certain training aspects but do not create the focused and synchronized practice that is most beneficial for skill mastery in a consistent manner.