I wanted to test myself to see if I am ready for the half or three quarter swings on the course so I went to the UNC Finley driving range after my lesson yesterday. I hit my first few pretty good but then could feel myself coming over the top and lifting with my hands and left shoulder. It was amazing how I couldn’t stop the lifting. I had an idea it was the “turn, turn, turn” but I was going to let Patrick fix it.
During the lesson, Patrick told me I have the knowledge and the ability, I just need to understand what is causing over the top. It is, in fact, the “turn, turn, turn”. I allow my arms to give me the feel of depth rather than allowing my right side to turn which causes my left arm and especially my left elbow to stay soft. While I hit about 15 shanks at UNC Finley, I did not not hit one with Patrick. In fact, he was so pleased he videoed me and showed me how much my impact has improved. What I noticed most is my right knee is soft and “swings” through the downswing.
I ended up hitting a lot of really good shots as now Patrick wants me to go three quarters of the way back. Once again, I still need to feel the instant softening of my left shoulder and elbow after impact, but it is definitely getting better. Patrick also added that once I do a practice exercise I should really soften both my left and right shoulders. I try to add some shoulders at impact and at the end of the swing.
Overall, I am very pleased with where I am. I have more confidence now than I have had in a long time. I know Patrick wants me to play 9 holes next week but we might delay that a week just so I can build up more confidence before I actually try to hit at a green with the three quarters shots.
