When might a golfer experience positive transfer during play?

Positive transfer occurs when skills or knowledge gained in one context enhance performance in another context. In the case of golfers, this transfer is most likely to happen when they are engaging in skills that are similar to what they have practiced in their previous training.

When a golfer has trained extensively in specific techniques, strategies, or maneuvers that closely resemble the conditions they are facing during play, they are more likely to perform well. This similar experience allows for the application of learned skills, making it easier to execute shots or manage situations on the course.

In contrast, practicing unfamiliar shots may not leverage previous learning effectively, and focusing only on mechanics can potentially disrupt a golfer's flow or lead to overthinking. Similarly, when a golfer is underperforming, it can create a mental block that detracts from the application of learned skills. Thus, the concept of positive transfer emphasizes the importance of practicing skills that closely align with actual play scenarios for optimal performance.