Before I build the machine

[EdZ]

Originally Posted by Bagger Lance

Swinging has a bit more hip and leg action...as the drag is more "ground up". Hitting is more of a "bracing" procedure in that the right side is used to brace against the thrusting right arm

This from the Web-Meister. Pretty heavy stuff -- and right on the money!

Isn't this a GREAT place to be

It can be useful to think of hitting as a 'shorter whip', with a more 'stable' base (and hence center).

All else being equal, the less moving parts, the more stable the machine. Those parts that do move, move in harmony with all other moving parts. Rhythm.

Excellent. "heavy" stuff indeed

davel - my intention was to highlight the importance of 'total' balance. A simple concept that isn't always so simple to do! Eyes closed practice with a heavy club can reallly help this.

Try drills hitting a basketball with a broom against a wall. Pay attention to how you can spin the ball, and where you must impact the ball to produce a given result. Hold the broom about halfway down, such that it is up near your left side and runs 'underneath' your left arm.

Start at impact fix (pose impact, see Hogan's 5 lessons page 102)and 'push through' to both arms straight until you are facing the target, and the broom handle is parallel to the ground. You should limit this drill to swings no larger than hip high back and through. If you have throw away (meaning you don't keep your left wrist flat), you will see that the broom will hit you in the left side.

Next drill with your right hand only. As you keep your right wrist bent back, and your right forearm in plane with the broom, notice the angle between the broom and your forearm. Keep that angle by leading with the right elbow. You may find it usefull to make a fist with your left hand and 'wedge' it between the broom and your right forearm, keeping it there while you brush 'down' and towards both arms straight.

The broom will help your pivot significantly, hitting or swinging.

Pay particular attention to your right elbow and right forearm, as if they are a spoke in a wheel and your right wrist is bent back 'on the rim'.