Perfect form does not exist. We get so obsessed with the idea that we know the “right” and “wrong” way to do things.
We need guidance, structure and a general framework for movement in the novice populations, but at the end of the day, some of the greatest to ever do these movements have strayed from what was “correct”. We see innovation and creativity in competition in all realms of movement. They didn’t get there by following a structured methodology for how to do it.
Our bodies know far more about the most efficient way to perform a movement pattern than any device or coach can tell us. We all have different anatomies and body types. The only thing that matters is repetition and hard work. We all move differently and if we have aspirations of being elite at any one thing, then the things that make us unique should be promoted.
Examples:
*Basketball – Dame Lillard talked this week about his unique shot release, Rick Barry shot underhanded free throws
*Baseball – Ichiro and Pujols are hall of famers and had unique swings…look at any sidearm or knuckleball pitcher
*Boxing – Muhammad Ali and Roy Jones Jr had uncharacteristic fight styles
*Golf – Jim Furyk or Matthew Wolff’s swing would never be taught anywhere in a golf clinic
*MMA might be one of the best examples because we see different fight styles compete against each other to determine who is the best (and there is none!) – there are Judo champions, Karate champions, Wrestling champions, Boxing champions, Kickboxing champions, Jiu Jitsu champions…
*Strong man competitors, the pinnacle for strength athletes, often have very “poor” technique when lifting heavy objects because the strategy or the shape of the object demands it
There are competitors of every type of movement that excel. Every athlete should begin with a general framework, and every athlete should always be looking to improve. But we as coaches spend too much time trying to make our athletes fit what’s “right” or “wrong” instead of embracing and encouraging the idea that we all move differently