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Table 1 The theoretical framework underpinning the AIK Base

From: Theory to Practice: Performance Preparation Models in Contemporary High-Level Sport Guided by an Ecological Dynamics Framework

Theoretical framework

Ecological dynamics: constraints led approach

Pedagogical concept

Nonlinear pedagogy—e.g. (i) Representative learning design, (ii) repetition without repetition (adaptive movement variability), (iii) manipulation of constraints, and (iv), designing opportunities or affordances for developing relevant information-movement couplings.

Football concept

Football Interactions (pass, dribble, off-ball movement)—refers to how a player coordinates his/her behaviour within the performance landscape in relation to that environment, on the basis of, not only the immediate physical and informational (i.e., situational) demands but also underpinned by socio-historical and cultural factors.

Principles of play

In possession: Search, discover, exploit space and gaps using football interactions. Recovering the ball: Close space/gaps, minimise possibilities for opponent’s football interactions, win the ball.