PRODUCTIVITYMonths to result

The Power of Transitions

Training in the in-between

Problem it solves

low productivity

Best for

Individuals seeking to improve their performance and well-being

Not ideal for

Those who are not willing to put in the effort to train in the in-between

Overview

Why this framework exists

The framework discusses the importance of training in the transitions or 'in-between' moments, rather than just focusing on the end result. It highlights that by doing so, one can develop a higher frame rate and be more effective in their endeavors.

Core principles

3 total
  1. Training in the transitions is crucial for improving performance and reaction time.
  2. One must be willing to let go of the need to dominate and control, and instead focus on the learning process.
  3. The in-between moments are where the real growth and improvement occur.

Steps

3 steps
  1. Identify the Transitions
    Recognize the moments where you need to transition from one state to another, and focus on improving those transitions.
    Pro tipPractice mindfulness and awareness to help you identify the transitions.
    WarningDon't get too caught up in the end result that you neglect the transitions.
  2. Let Go of the Need to Dominate
    Release the need to control and dominate, and instead focus on the learning process and improving your skills.
    Pro tipRemember that the goal is to improve, not to win or dominate.
    WarningDon't confuse letting go of the need to dominate with being passive or unengaged.
  3. Train in the In-Between
    Focus on training in the transitions and 'in-between' moments, rather than just focusing on the end result.
    Pro tipUse visualization and mental rehearsal to help you train in the in-between.
    WarningDon't neglect the importance of physical practice and training.

Checklist

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Examples

1 cases
Marcelo Garcia's Training Method

Marcelo Garcia's training method, which focuses on training in the transitions and 'in-between' moments, demonstrates the effectiveness of this approach. By not holding positions and instead focusing on the transitions, Garcia is able to develop a higher frame rate and reaction time, making him a more effective martial artist.

OutcomeGarcia becomes a highly skilled and successful martial artist.

Common mistakes

3 traps
Focusing Too Much on the End Result
When you focus too much on the end result, you can neglect the transitions and 'in-between' moments, which are crucial for improving performance and reaction time.
Not Letting Go of the Need to Dominate
If you don't let go of the need to dominate and control, you may not be able to focus on the learning process and improving your skills.
Not Training in the In-Between
If you don't train in the transitions and 'in-between' moments, you may not be able to develop the higher frame rate and reaction time needed to improve your performance.

Origin story

How this framework came to be

The concept is rooted in Josh Waitzkin's experiences as a martial artist, where he learned the importance of training in the transitions and 'in-between' moments to improve his skills and reaction time.

Source

Traced to primary
Source · PODCAST
The Art of Learning & Living Life | Josh Waitzkin
Andrew Huberman · 2025
Open source →

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