Posted by: Ruben (Okjay38@aol.com) on Wed Oct 3 07:34:07 2001

I hadn't heard or read about the "archer" thing. But I can only assume it means bringing the top hand and arm backwards. Like an archer, this acts to "prime the swing". I myself don't teach my students to pull back much farther than about 6" from the shoulder, as it straightens the arms too much, thereby slowing down the swing. By pulling back 6", it allows the elbows to stay bent and tucked close to the body, allowing for faster turn, which builds more torque. Try to remember that when an archer brings his arms back, his elbow usually points backwards. This is not good. Keep your elbows tucked in so they're close to your sides. When you think "be an archer" remember with the hands only.

Ruben