Connecting the dots

After a short period experimenting with right (trailing) elbow positions - in an attempt to find my backswing - I have returned to a connected lead (left) arm as my backswing key. It's something I did quite effectively for a while, so why I did not stick to it is a mystery.

Anyway, this connection feels good, it feels consistent and solid, but it does have a couple of downsides, as follows.

Restricting the backswing in this way does shorten the swing, which can feel powerless, unless you (I) realise that the use of the body, particularly the core, compensates very well for the loss of length in the backswing. This combination of arms (and it is an extended arm, virtually straight) and body rotation does provide plenty of power for someone of my age and build. I'm not hitting it 300 yards, so being on the fairway is much more important.

The other downside of this compact and shorter backswing is the tendency to hit too soon, or put another way, to hurry the downswing. This means I need excellent rhythm, which incorporates a slight pause at the top of the backswing. The challenge is to get the pause just right - not too short, not too long. Too short will result in a hurried, poorly timed swing. Too long will introduce the possibility of too much sway or some element of lifting or some other movement that will destroy the accuracy of the swing and strike.

These issues aside, there is a lot to be said for this kind of left (lead) arm and upper chest connection. It provides good structure for the swing, good consistent positioning on the backswing, which is what I really need.

The other thing I need, is a more consistent putting stroke. I've tried all kinds of grips and techniques, with no more success than if I'd stayed with a simple, conventional grip and my life-long putting stroke, which is neither a long, fluid stroke, nor a short pop stroke. I know I'm a good putter; I don't need tricks, I just need to trust my stroke. If any technique is worth thinking about it is probably just making sure I keep the putter low. By focusing on that, it can help keep at bay the thoughts like 'don't miss this one'. After all, confidence is key with putting. There are many ways to pat (not skin) a cat.

That's it, I'm trying to connect (maybe re-connect) the dots. I'm trying to keep it simple and enjoy the game. Tinkering with a swing is fun, but ultimately fruitless. Better to focus on those dots.