Deliberate Practice: How to Train With Purpose

What does intentional practice actually look like and how do you make sure you’re getting better instead of just getting reps?In this episode, COGNELITE mental performance consultant Kiley Smith sits down with John Ritzen, Head Women’s Golf Coach at Chardon State College and author of The Golf Workbook: A Practice Plan to Improve Your Game, to break down the difference between “hit and hope” practice and training with real purpose.You’ll hear practical takeaways for athletes, coaches, and parents, including:Why quality reps beat quantity reps (and how to stay mentally engaged in practice)Block vs. variable practice and how changing targets builds real skillHow to create a simple pre-shot routine that locks in focus (even during practice)Why managing expectations is a mental skillHow to handle emotions mid-competition (yes, even “scream into a towel”)Coaching + parenting tips: how to support athletes without turning every moment into instructionWhether you’re a golfer or not, this conversation is packed with transferable tools for performing under pressure and building a practice plan that actually translates to competition.