Developing a consistent golf swing is one of the most important aspects of the game to achieve a satisfying and rewarding outcome for this wonderful sport.
Understanding the proper golf swing mechanics is vital to allow the golf swing speed to be built around an individual feeling comfortable within themselves, rather than trying to emulate a top professional.
Trying to hit the ball 300yds from scratch, as seen on TV will only lead to continual frustration.
It is better to develop a simple swing suited to yourself that can be extended as one aspect of the swing is fully understood before moving on to the next.
It will soon become apparent that the ball travels further and straighter when the golf swing is controlled by shoulder turn from the waist rather than a full pelt arm swing.
To develop a simple golf swing that creates consistency click here.
In This Article
Golf swing mechanics
The golf swing needs to be one fluent movement made up of four individual sections. The main thing is to feel comfortable over the ball when taking your stance.
The club head should be placed behind the ball which is equidistance between the feet, legs relaxed at the knee, allowing the arms to hang loose.
It is important in the swing that you allow the golf club to do the work rather than trying to hit the ball. Putting tips to improve your game.
The Takeaway
This description is based on a right-handed player and of course, the opposite is required if you are left-handed.
The start of the takeaway is to keep the back of the left hand aimed at the target keep the arm straight and turn the shoulders.
The power of the drive will come from the shoulders uncoiling rather than trying to hit the ball through the arms. Tips on club selection.
The Backswing
The distance of the backswing is controlled by the position of the hands on the club handle.
The hands should be quiet but positioned in such a way as to avoid allowing the club to over-swing.
Many novices wrongly assume that the further back they take the club the more distance they will gain with the ball. The opposite is true.
A short backswing will generate more power and give greater accuracy. This can be extended once you feel confident and balanced. Stableford scoring is explained here.
The impact of the Downswing
The whole point of the two previous sections of takeaway and backswing is to make sure you are in the correct position at impact.
Keeping the weight centrally balanced allows the clubface to return to a position as the shoulder turns on the downswing and brings the straight left arm through to point of contact.
An ideal downswing will bring the hands in front of the impact on the ball. Allowing the club to do the work will result in solid contact provided you have maintained your stance.
The Follow Through
As you rotate your shoulders, keeping your left arm straight the momentum of the swing will project the ball forward.
This is a crucial time to maintain your balance and just allow the club to make contact with the ball.
As your swing is completed you should keep your position until you see the ball land.
By practicing the above steps by not trying to hit the ball or overreach in the backswing you should start to feel the comfortable swing that will suit you.
Final Thoughts
Developing a simple swing that is designed for each individual is the foundation that can be built on to increase distance and accuracy.
So many novice golfers get confused by attempting to correct a slice or try to perfect a draw before having the basic swing mastered.
The brain will cope much more easily in adjusting errors if the body feels comfortable and performs a repetitious movement.
The secret to enjoying golf is to patiently build a simple swing that feels comfortable to you. More tips here on achieving a consistent golf swing.
