052: Mike Carroll on Blocked vs. Random Practice (and the Flawed Debate)

About this episode

The episode discusses the complexities of blocked versus random practice in golf training with guest Mike Carroll.

In this episode, Erik, Jayson, and Tyson talk with Mike Carroll (aka Irish Mike of “Fit for Golf”) to challenge the oversimplified “random practice is better” narrative that surfaces frequently on social media. They discuss how many blocked vs. random studies are short-term, poorly structured, and rarely reflect how serious golfers actually practice. Mike explains why high-quality “blocked” practice can be incredibly intentional and reflective, why higher handicap golfers may struggle with overly randomized sessions, and how long-term improvement requires something beyond chasing short-term transfer gains. The conversation also dives into technique vs. skill work, internal vs. external focus, and why raising your ceiling over years demands both science and real-world coaching context. Hosts: Erik J. Barzeski, Jayson Nickol, Tyson Deskins

People in this episode

Hosts: Erik J. Barzeski, Jayson Nickol, Tyson Deskins

Guest: Mike Carroll

Topics covered

• blocked practice
• random practice
• golf training
• skill development
• coaching techniques

Keywords

• golf
• practice methods
• skill acquisition
• coaching
• performance improvement

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Fit for Golf

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