Observe the current position
Watch a cooperative repetition and a light-resistance exchange. Identify whether the difficulty is movement, distance, connection, or recognizing the opportunity.
Choose the smallest useful step
If the entry is unstable, practice level change and trail-foot recovery before adding another finish. If the movement is sound, add one partner reaction to develop the decision.
Vary the challenge carefully
Change one factor at a time: resistance, speed, starting distance, or available choices. Keep the partner role clear so the athlete knows what problem they are solving.
Review across practices
Record a short note about the cue and whether it transferred to a live exchange. Revisit the same situation later rather than assuming one good day means mastery.
Put it into practice
Your next session
For one athlete, write a current strength, a current constraint, and a next task. Use that task for two practices and review it with the athlete.
What to look for
An athlete is ready for a harder task when they can reproduce the position and explain the decision at the current level of resistance.