Sore arms and mind management

Question
Hello Mr. Nunn, and thanks for considering my questions. I have 2.
The first: when i practice the only available locations offer unlimited balls for a set time, but only on mats. And i practice most of the clubs from the mats. But the next day, oh, do my forearms, elbows and biceps ache; maybe even like tendonitis. Now this could be from poor technique or from the mats which do not absorb the shock like the turf. Of course, unlimited balls means that many get hit. Maybe too many. What is your opinion on my sore arms?
My second Q. And more important to me is that although my practice is going well when i go to the course I find total collapse. I mean some horrid shots, one after the next. Then ten minutes later some good ones. My mind is far too active and, i think, bringing too great a desire for 'good shot' into the picture. I have many decades of poor golf technique but can, and am, improving; on the range but not on the course. Any advice on how to play on the course and not think about technique. Most of my golf has been 'recreational' (who cares about the score) but now i want better golf and lower  scores. Thanks again.

Answer
First question:

Take a few days off from hitting balls, just work on your putting.

When you do go back to practice, Quit hitting down on the ball so hard.  This should fix the sore arm thing.  

Second Question:

Just go play and quit trying to hit the perfect shot so much.  You can do it, it just takes time.  It's more about the enjoyment of YOUR SWING right now.  When playing on the course...Make small minor adjustments not big ones.  And lastly here is this, BELIEVE and KNOW YOU CAN AND WILL HIT THE SHOT YOU WANT.

Your doing fine, everyone goes through what you are right now.  It's golf's way of testing you to see how true you are to the game and committed you are going to be.  

Golf as a game is just like a relationship...always testing your resolve, commitment, and love.  But once golf is sure of your commitment, it will give back in ways no one knows.

Treat Golf with honesty and fairness, and you will get your rewards.  Eventually golf will commit back with better shots and lower scores.  You see most have not done this one thing with Golf as a game and sport.  I know you get my meaning here, and if your confused...then think about your lifetime relationships and your significant other.

You see, what I have found out about Golf is this.  
It is an Acronym for (G)ame (O)f (L)ife (F)irst!

Good Luck
Robb Nunn
PGA Professional

http://www.robbnunn.com  Why not sign up for my website and periodic tips and lessons?  It's a great way to keep in touch.