The ability to perform a motor skill bilaterally is rudimentary in many competitive sports. Bilateral transfer phenomenon is based on a motor control theory. According to the schema theory, action is controlled by a generalized motor program mechanism (GMP) and can be produced by different muscles on the left or right side. Another mechanism responsible for the selection of muscles is recall schema, which can be enhanced by practice variability. (Lai et.al 2000) suggested that a stable GMP developed earlier by constant practice is a prerequisite for developing, at same later time, an effective recall schema by means of variable practice. This study examined the optimal direction of bilateral transfer and the effect of different practice schedules on bilateral badminton serves acquisition. Participant (n=96) acquired the skill under one of six-practice condition: (a) preferred group (practiced with the preferred hand only); (b) non-preferred group (practiced with the non-preferred hand only); (c) preferred-non preferred group (practiced initially with the preferred hand before switching to the opposing hand); (d) nonpreferred preferred - group (practiced initially with the nonpreferred hand before switching);(e) variable group (switched practice hands in blocks of 5 trials throughout the entire acquisition period)and (f)control group. Results were compared across time (pretest, short-term retention) and for the directional effects of preference (preferred and non-preferred hand performance).

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