Once left arm gets parallel to ground on backswing, I can't keep it straight anymore

[GITrDONE]

I've been focusing on achieving a stiff straight left arm (I'm a righty and swing righty)

On my backswing I can bring the club back until my left arm is about parallel to the ground without bending my left arm's elbow. But at that point I can't go any further

Tips?

[Dent]

Id say dont keep it completely straight, if you wanna get paralell add a little bend in there and then come down straightening out the left arm again, at the top of the swing, bend it, coming down, straighten it.

[orange_sae]

Yup, it's better if theres a little bend, but if you really want to keep it straight, try doing some stretching everyday. It will help your arm become more flexible, or you can hit the gym, it'd take time though. You'll need arm power to keep it straight.

[BluesMan]

Try turning your shoulders more. Be sure not to reverse pivot.

Someone I know has the same problem as you. Their arms wouldnt fit round their body! They solved the problem by turning further with their body giving their arms more space.

[dlaville]

I've been focusing on achieving a stiff straight left arm (I'm a righty and swing righty)

You have 3 options;

1) try keeping your right arm fully extended. This will push your left arm straight and give structure to the triangle assembly. Some some odd reason some golfers have been taught to keep their right elbow tucked to their side. All this does is pull in the elbow pulling in the right hand causing the left arm to bend and collapse the triangle assembly. Can this be your problem? 2) turn your shoulders more. 3) stop your backswing when your left arm gets parallel to the ground. This is close to a 3/4 swing and even though you wont be playing at maximum distance you're probably gain a lot more control.

[GITrDONE]

Some really good tips thanks guys

The "turn your shoulders more" comment is very interesting. If I clear my head and bring the club back I don't get as far as if I mentally think to myself "turn your shoulders".

Can anyone comment on how I should be turning my body? Should I stay square the whole time essentially or should I let my chest turn 90 degrees until it's facing backwards?

[supercow]

Keep on turning as long as you are able to maintain spine angle, spinal tilt, and most important of all control.

[AndrewM]

I've been focusing on achieving a stiff straight left arm (I'm a righty and swing righty)

well whatever you're doing it must be right, you hit 300 yard+ 3 woods...

oh and you have the flexibility and balance and build and strength of Tiger Woods, so I dont see how keeping your arm straight would be an issue.