Practice time??

[JetFan1983]

I got no option but to practice off mats. I know they aren't ideal, but it's not like I can't improve on them. If I hit the ball flush I don't feel the mat much anyways. Practicing on the course is not an option, I need many balls and lots of time.

Haha, yea I guess I did sound a bit like a spoiled brat with that post, but here's my problem with mats. When I go to the range, I tend to swing out of my shoes- basically in an attempt to push my limits with this game. This obviously leads to a lot of shanks, especially hitting it fat, which takes a serious toll on my already weakish right elbow. After a truly grueling session, my elbow is seriously sore, for at least a day or two afterwards.

I know all of you agree with me on this one so I guess it's silly even arguing it, but grass tees offer so much more feedback on good and bad shots it's ridiculous. Anyway, I'll suck it up and hit up the mat range soon enough, once the weather isn't so bipolar around here. It's not like I have a choice, anyway!

[Jared]

IMO, the range is where you go to fix flaws in your game.

The course is where you go to learn how to score.

[Zeph]

That is true. Trying to fix swing flaws on the course is for me impossible. I will try to repeat what I do on the range, but making new changes won't work. There are too many other things to think about.
For me, going to the range is the most important practice in golf. I have to do something on the range good enough and so many times it gets automated into my body. If I go hit 10 balls and hit 2 of them good, I have no idea what to do when I reach the course. It's about confidence in your swing and consistency.