What does 10,000 hours to reach potential include

Gary McAdams Asked 10 years ago

Hello Alois,

I've heard that it takes 10,000 hours to realize one's full potential as a TT player.  Does this include things like mental preparation, reading, and research?  Or are these things in addition to time spent at the table?

Recently I played on older fellow who used anti-spin rubber, and in a best-of-five match he destroyed me three games in a row.

Knowing that I would face him again, I spent some time researching anti-spin strategy and defense, tried to understand what was happening during a rally, and develop my approach when facing this type of player.  I also worked to try to understand how to identify/exploit weaknesses when facing an opponent.

The following week I didn't just take a game from him, I won the match 3 games to 2.  I believe that I could have spent many hours playing against him (and losing) before I finally figured out how to beat him.  Instead I did a little research and was able to score a victory much sooner.

So my question, again, is whether or not these 10,000 hours include the more indirect aspects of the game, such as mental preparation, analysis, planning, strategy, etc. or whether it is assumed that this type of activity should be taking place separately, to go along with the 10k hours spent on the table.

I appreciate any thoughts you might have on the topic.

Thanks!

Alois Rosario Answered 10 years ago

Hi Gary,

In this situation you have definitely short cut your time by your learning method.  Some players learn well from research and some others need the time on the table more.

In general my understanding is that the 10,000 hours is time on the table but I might be wrong in your situation.  You have definitely taken a step forward without the time on the table.