Where does the ability to retrieve accomplished swing skills primarily reside?

The ability to retrieve accomplished swing skills primarily resides in long-term memory. This is because long-term memory is where procedural knowledge, like the nuances of a golf swing, is stored after repeated practice and reinforcement. When a golfer practices swing techniques consistently, these actions become ingrained and automatic, allowing them to recall and execute the skills with ease during a game.

Muscle memory is often mentioned in conjunction with this concept but refers to the physical aspect of performing actions rather than the cognitive retrieval of those skills. Short-term memory and working memory are more associated with temporarily processing information and tasks, which do not encompass the ingrained, procedural nature of swing skills. Long-term memory, therefore, plays a crucial role in allowing athletes to access and utilize important skills repeatedly over time.