How-to Guide
Delivery protocols, best practices and practical guidance for Action Observation, alternating AO+MI, synchronous AO+MI and Motor Imagery. The delivery wording accommodates different practice settings and populations.
Delivery protocol
Alternating between action observation and motor imagery
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1
Check Readiness and Select a Task
Check that the person can observe and engage in imagery. Choose a meaningful action appropriate to their abilities and goals.
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2
Watch the Movement
Demonstrate the action clearly so the person can see exactly what they will subsequently imagine.
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3
Imagine the Same Movement
After the demonstration, ask the person to imagine performing the action without moving. Where suitable, cue both seeing and feeling themselves perform the movement.
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4
Perform the Movement if Possible
Ask the person to physically execute the same action after imagining it, if they are able and movement is appropriate.
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5
Repeat in Sequence
Repeat observe → imagine → execute if possible across trials, keeping observation and imagery close together.
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6
Monitor and Progress
Check that the person follows the sequence and engages in imagery. Adapt task difficulty and consider synchronous AO+MI when they can watch and imagine at the same time. Changing variants is an option, not a required progression.
Best practices
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Keep the Sequence Clear
Maintain the order: observe, imagine the same action, then physically execute if possible and appropriate.
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Let the Demonstration Guide Imagery
Use the observed action as the imagery template, avoiding lengthy verbal descriptions that add unnecessary cognitive demands.
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Cue Seeing and Feeling
Where suitable, ask the person to imagine both seeing and feeling themselves perform the action, without physically moving during imagery.
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Check Engagement and Adapt
Check the transition from observation to imagery. Consider synchronous AO+MI when the person can comfortably watch and imagine together, while retaining the format that best suits their needs.
In practice
Live or Recorded
- Use a live demonstration or video to show exactly which action the person will subsequently imagine.
Personalised Resources
- Record meaningful tasks for independent practice. Sequential printed pictures can provide a task guide when a digital device is unavailable.
Use the Visual Template
- Let the demonstration supply the action details, reducing the need for lengthy verbal descriptions.
Cue Seeing and Feeling
- Where suitable, ask the person to imagine seeing and feeling themselves perform the action, without moving during imagery.
Preserve the Sequence
- Follow observe → imagine the same action → physically execute if possible.
Keep the Stages Close
- Move from observation to imagery and then execution in close succession, allowing each stage to prepare for the next.
Check the Transition
- Confirm that the person moves from watching to imagining, maintaining the intended sequence.
Adapt the Format
- Consider synchronous AO+MI when watching and imagining together becomes manageable. Select the format according to engagement and capacity rather than requiring progression.