One way to feel the length of the loop and where the tip is is to choose an object-the top of a dummy or a dirt clod on the ground if you're on foot-to where when you swing, you graze that object with your tip. If you're too short or long with your depth perception and where that tip is, it will affect the accuracy of your loop. So
doing that allows you to make adjustments and get it right.
When you're practicing your swing, if you bring your tip down in front of you enough to where you can see the tip, that can also be helpful in getting that awareness for where the tip of your rope is.
If you don't develop the ability to feel the loop parts-where the top, tip and bottom are-it really limits your ability to be accurate and consistent with the delivery of your loops. Things have to be pretty precise to throw a good heel loop every time, so this is important.
If you're a beginner roper, or even someone who's roped awhile, and you still have trouble feeling your loop parts in your swing, you might try things that work for other people and watch other ropers. Try different lays of ropes and go more limber or harder. You might also try changing your spoke length. Experiment in all areas to try to develop that feel for your loop and its parts.
