Here's an example of a Paddler Challenge Card: 'On the back foot: Start each course from a challenging position.'
This card was developed by Adam Burgess, a member of the Canoe Slalom Olympic Team. The process of selecting a card was made easy as the paddler designed it to add to an existing skill that focused upon enhancing ‘in run’ (during the performance) adaptability.
The intention of the card was to expose paddlers to the experience of arriving at a gate sequence in different ways, which more accurately represents what is likely to occur in competition. The dynamic, changing nature of the individual/environment in the sport means that paddlers require a strong ability to adapt – and quickly! Evolving from being ‘off plan’ (and freezing) to noticing what has become possible and adapting.
The card encourages problem-solving and choice, but also offers the coach an insight into what the paddler perceives as difficult and as a possible priority for future co-creation of practice design.