The toughest move I see for my students is the transition from
backswing to downswing, as golfers have the urge to force the club
down with their arms or upper body. In fact, many golfers think the
backswing is supposed to be super-slow and the downswing a quick
burst of speed. But this guarantees a violent move from the top.
The truth is, the swing needs rhythm from start to finish.
The toughest move I see for my students is the transition from backswing to downswing, as golfers have the urge to force the club down with their arms or upper body. In fact, many golfers think the backswing is supposed to be super-slow and the downswing a quick burst of speed. But this guarantees a violent move from the top. The truth is, the swing needs rhythm from start to finish. One great way to ensure this, and a smooth transition at the top, is to hum while you swing. Your objective is to keep the pitch and volume constant until the momentum of the downswing gradually quickens it. Another great way is to use a swing tempo meter as we do with our students. Let the body unwind naturally, and let the club’s natural acceleration cause a natural acceleration to your tempo. A smooth transition allows the club to drop to the inside and approach the ball on a powerful in-to-out path. An early lurch from the top forces the club away from the body, causing an out-to-in path and pulls or pull-slices.
Dave Tuttle is the First Assistant Golf Pro at Coyote Creek Golf Course. For information about classes, email dl****@*********ke.com or call 463-8024.
