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The Zen of the Swing
By Carl Danner
Every swinging/stroking sport has a common learning path that's critical, and somewhat paradoxical: It's the path from swinging, to controlling, to swinging again. Let me explain.Top players, whether at tennis, golf, or table tennis, look remarkably fluid. They appear to swing freely, and generate remarkable velocity, spin, and control through full body movements. But when beginners imitate this, disaster ensues; they can't control the ball or even hit it (try contacting a golf ball through a full swing, if you're not already a golfer). To compensate, beginners immediately shorten their strokes and carefully control the swing of the racket or club with tight muscles. This adjustment usually works in terms of allowing shots to be made, but not very good ones.
The Zen of the swing is the need, as one improves, to let go again and swing more freely to develop some of the zip seen in high-level play-- but this time using improved technique that allows consistency. Unfortunately, many players never recover from their initial learning, and continue to steer the ball rather than swing freely through it. Tight muscles also limit the involvement of the entire body, from feet on up, that's needed to generate real power or spin.
To loosen up your game, become aware of the tension you may feel in your wrist, arm or shoulder. Try some relaxed swings (not hard at first) in practice. Note that fuller swings may require adjustments in body or ball position. Experiment with a more fluid motion; smile as you stroke. At the same time, don't go all rubbery all at once, as the key to this (like any advancement) remains consistency. But little experiments, and a new perspective, can begin to pay dividends in bigger shots that are more fun to hit.
Granted, the Zen analogy may sound a little hokey. But I assure you that this mind-body connection is one that every top player instinctively understands, and uses every day. See if you can join them.