Why is utilizing skill progressions important in teaching?

Utilizing skill progressions in teaching is fundamental because it provides a structured approach to learning, allowing athletes to develop their abilities systematically from novice to advanced levels. This approach ensures that learners build a solid foundation of fundamental skills before moving on to more complex techniques. By following a progression, instructors can assess the athlete's current competency, introduce new skills at the appropriate time, and ensure that each new skill builds on previously acquired knowledge and abilities. This systematic development process helps to enhance understanding, retention, and performance, as athletes are more likely to succeed when they are gradually exposed to increasingly challenging tasks that match their developmental stage.