This article presents two experiments examining the effects of external focus of attention on motor performance and learning. Two main findings resulted from the present studies. First, directing learners' attention to the movement effect (external focus) can enhance learning complex, real-life skills. In contrast, wording instructions in a way that directs individuals' attention to coordinating their movements (internal focus), while not detrimental, is ineffective. In the present experiments, as in other studies, internal focus instructions provided no advantage compared to not giving instructions at all. Second, the benefits of adopting an external focus generalize to high skill levels. Similar to beginners, the performance of semiprofessional golfers also benefited if their attention was directed externally. (Contains 1 figure.)