Pause between practise and actual strike

[Keniff]

Hi all, got a query I can't find the answer to. I've been using a chipping technique where I do 2 practice swings and then strike the ball on my 3rd swing with no pause. Is this allowed? 

[cnosil]

Hi all, got a query I can't find the answer to. I've been using a chipping technique where I do 2 practice swings and then strike the ball on my 3rd swing with no pause. Is this allowed? 

Need some more info. Are you reaching out to chip the ball after the two practice swings? Are you swinging over the ball? Trying to picture what you are doing.

The rules talk about intent and since you aren’t intending to hit the ball with the 2 practice swings I don’t see a problem. People will look at you odd and wonder if you whiffed.

[Keniff]

Hi cnosil, Thanks for your response.Spot on with your first interpretation. 2 swings just inside the ball then reach slightly over on the 3rd swing to strike the ball. I have been suffering terribly with the chipping yips and have been using this technique to take pressure of the actual hit. I've also tried it taking numerous practise swings and striking the ball when it feels right.

Proving intent is very difficult though. That's kind of why I am unsure.

[cnosil]

I would think; I am not a rules expert,  that since you line up inside and this is your consistent routine that you should be fine. 

[Keniff]

I think most people would see it like that and thanks for that. I don't suppose anyone I regularly play with would be bothered but I would like a "rules Expert" to give me a definitive answer if I ever need it. Thanks again for your help.

[Denkea]

On 9/3/2020 at 4:54 PM, Keniff said:

I think most people would see it like that and thanks for that. I don't suppose anyone I regularly play with would be bothered but I would like a "rules Expert" to give me a definitive answer if I ever need it. Thanks again for your help.

A swing is a swing but not necessarily a "stroke".  You have to intentionally swing at the ball to have made a stroke.  Then it counts.  

[DaveP043]

To me this is clear if you read the definition of Stroke.  If you're not trying to hit the ball, you haven't made a stroke. However, if you accidentally move the ball while making a practice swing, you must replace it, and add a penalty stroke.