Purpose:
To develop our ability to focus, especially when distracted by other, similar stimulus. It is not initially related to climbing but once mastered will begin to inform your ability to focus on routes
Where/When: any time, anywhere, including away from the wall
This is designed as a homework exercise that you can practice anywhere; including at home.
The Drill:
Pick a song that you like. With headphones on:
- listen to the song through as normal
- Pick one instrument. Now see if you can follow the song through but focusing carefully on exactly what this instrument is doing. For example, listen carefully to the drummer. See if you can pick out the beat, see when the beat changes.
Try not to get distracted by any of the other instruments but know that you probably will. When you are distracted, try to refocus on the instrument you’ve chosen (in this case, the drums) - Listen to the same track again but this time pick a different instrument and repeat the process. Note: some instruments are much harder than others
- Try the same exercise with another, similar song
- Try the same exercise with a more complicated song. Big band jazz or classical can be particularly tricky
NOTE: this is a difficult thing to do and it will take time to go through the stages. Don’t move on to the next stage until you have mastered the previous one
The Outcome: How do you know when it’s working?
Over time, you should find that you are able to focus on one particular thing and cut out any other ‘noise’ happening around you.
Eventually, this will change from literal noise to distracting thoughts