Back to basics - again!

My last round and my attempt to shorten my backswing (with a view to better control) proved to me again that there is a real problem in trying to implement theories and tips whilst actually playing golf.

The reality is that one's golf swing can only emerge or evolve over time, and it will be good or bad depending on the learning process followed and the fundamentals one has adopted. Nothing about a golf swing can change - for the better - in the short term.

I'm inclined to think that some of the world's best golfers (and I include said Tiger Woods) have made the mistake of trying to move to a swing that is unnatural to them, despite starting with a much higher level of expertise and hitting a lot more golf balls than the average golfer. Changing a swing that is good and hoping for perfection is, I'm forced to conclude, a recipe for disappointment.

My view now is that once some of the 'true' fundamentals of a golf swing have been put in place, the focus of all golfers should be on rhythm and timing, and you can add concentration, provided excessive tension does not creep into one's game.

I think the 'true' fundamentals, as I call them, relate to set up, that is before the club is swung. In summary, this means:

- having a good grip, not too strong and not too weak, and acquiring some awareness of the club face angle or position;
- having an athletic set up posture, so that you are less likely to sway or dip, and so that you give yourself the best chance of swinging strongly and efficiently;
- aligning correctly to the target, including a square or slightly closed shoulder alignment (far more important than feet and hips) so that there is a better chance of creating a decent swing plane - i.e. in-square-in.

What is not fundamental is how hard one hits, how long one swings, what shot shape one tries to groove, etc. etc. These are not fundamentals, but personal choices depending on ones ability and ambitions. Course management will come into play here, which can probably be otherwise called common sense. Time and opportunity to play and natural ability are other variables, not be all and end alls, but nonetheless will in most cases place a limit on golfing potential.

Anyhow, in my own case, I'm certain that mechanical thoughts (including all of my theories) have been interfering with my ability to play good golf, or better and more consistent golf (since I do hit some good shots), and that I need to change my approach.

My next round will be a back to basics round, hopefully including my true fundamentals, but mainly with an attempt to focus on rhythm and timing - and to use what little common sense I have.