I'm currently practicing for the US F3A Team Trials. My practice sessions consist of 3 flights in the morning and 3 flights in the late afternoon. Also, I try to have a caller as often as possible to help give me positive criticism.

There's a couple of reasons I don't go out for one long practice session. First, I get tired if I practice more than 3 or 4 flights at a time. The quality of the flights go downhill after putting forth the intense mental focus it requires to fly well. Secondly, in North Carolina right now it's humid and warm by noon. If I'm at my field at 9am, I can 'beat the heat' and get a more efficient practice session. Then in the afternoon I do something else other than flying to give myself a break and allow time to 'rest'. Around 5pm, I'll go out again when it's somewhat cooler and put in 3 more quality spent flights.

Some fields aren't always great with the sun, along with other variables, so I can understand why some people can't practice exactly how I do.

Finally, I get my dad to call for me b/c he can see the big picture when I'm flying - such as constant radii, centering, etc. I recommend getting someone to call for you as much as you can, even if they can't coach you on the technical things. If you are fortunate enough to have someone who can coach you, one on one discussions are the best for understanding 'how to fly a maneuver'. Sometimes it's hard to translate words into how to fly b/c it's such an intricate process.

I think all the replies on here have been great...keep it up everyone! Burn fuel efficiently!