Learn The Proper Golf Downswing
Written By Mike Pedersen
One of the most critical parts of the golf swing is the downswing. There
is a sequence of movement that must be met to hit a solid shot that flies
both accurately and with maximum distance.
If you asked 100 golf instructors they all most likely would tell you something different. The reason being is golf is about "feel". Every golfer and instructor feels movements their own way. Doesn't make it right or wrong, just might not be how you feel it and understand it.
One of the best ball strikers of all time was Ben Hogan (see picture to the right). Ben had many thoughts regarding the downswing sequence and what he felt. Again, not right not wrong. Just the way he felt it in his golf swing.
What We Can Learn From Ben Hogan's Downswing Sequence
In Ben Hogan's Five Lessons golf book, he said his hips initiate the downswing, during the transition from the top of his golf swing. He also says there must be enough lateral motion to transfer the weight to the lead foot.
This is a perfect example of what worked for him. If I did that, I'd "spin out" with my hips and most likely come over the top. I think for most amateur golfers, the first thought should be a slight PAUSE before coming down. This will give your body a chance to achieve the proper sequence. Most high handicap golfers ballistically come down with their hands, throwing away all their power, and causing the over-the- top swing.
Proper Golf Weight Shift
Many of the professional players say they feel their weight shift to the front leg at the start of the downswing. This is also referred to as "from the ground up". What I'd like to add to that is, if you have turned properly into your right leg, with no lateral movement of the right hip going back, then the downswing weight shift will happen without much effort or thinking of doing it. You will automatically be on your left side very early without conscious effort.
Right Shoulder Rotating Down Plane
The next move should be the right shoulder going down plane. Not out. Not forward, but down plane. This rotation of the shoulder allows the arms to drop "in the slot" where you can really pour on the steam going into impact. This rotation (pivot) of the shoulders (body) will automatically rotate the hips through impact powerfully.
Golf Tip: Keep your hands, arms and shoulders very relaxed, with no tension. Do not pull down. Let gravity and pivot bring them down.
Solid Impact Position
So as you can see, I've described what I have read and researched as to be the most common feels of the golf swing sequence. Now, the dynamic impact position just happens. The correct position is hands ahead of ball (forward shaft lean); flat left wrist, bent right wrist; hips open; shoulders square. There you have it!
Mike Pedersen
Golf Performance Coach
IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT!
I'm now offering my membership for free to give back after 10 years of golfers paying $97 a year.
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Mike Pedersen is the creator of the "Power Golf Training Online Membership - What Every Golfer Should Know About How To Hit Longer Drives And Play Pain-Free Golf", and has taught thousands of golfers how to add up to 40 yards to their drives.