What does coordination refer to in sports performance?

Coordination in sports performance refers to the ability to integrate different movements and skills effectively to achieve a desired outcome. It involves the seamless combination of various body parts working together to perform tasks smoothly and efficiently. For instance, when a basketball player dribbles the ball while navigating through defenders or a gymnast performs a routine, they rely on coordination to ensure that all movements are timed and executed perfectly.

This concept is pivotal in sports as it affects how well an athlete can control their body in space, adjust movements in response to other variables (like opponents in a game), and maintain balance and rhythm. Good coordination enhances performance by enabling athletes to work with precision and avoid mistakes that could lead to injuries or poor execution of skills.

While strength, speed of reaction, and flexibility are all important physical attributes in sports, they do not directly define what coordination entails. Coordination is specifically about the harmonious interaction of various skills and movements rather than merely the enhancement of physical capabilities like strength or speed.