The Backswing is there for 2 reasons
in my eyes:
1. Simply to put ourselves into the correct position
so that we can attack the ball consistently.
2. To create rhythm.
Many golfers make a hurried, short and snappy backswing
almost as if they are trying to hit the ball on the way back. This is
the first recipe for disaster but fortunately one that can be resolved
quite easily.
Most people will speak at a similar speed, therefore
my simple thought to get you from the start of you backswing to the top
is to count one, two, three in your mind, one being the start, 3 being
the point where you reach the top.
Now follow these instructions on how to make that
backswing:
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Step 1.
The left hip, shoulder and arm will take the club away initially.
This movement takes the clubhead along the target line, close to
the ground for the first 12-18 inches. This is known as a one piece
take-away.
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Step 2. Relaxing
the hips gives the shoulders chance to continue turning and the arms
chance to extend. Do not attempt to keep the head still, but allow
it to move just a couple of inches to the right at this stage.
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Notice that in this position:
- The shaft is Parallel to the ground.
- The left knee is relaxed which gives the hips a chance to turn
a little.
- The right knee has remained in its starting position.
- There is very little hinging (bending) of the wrists.
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Notice that in this position:
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The shaft is parallel to the line across the
shoelaces, which is parallel to the ‘Target Line’
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Your left hand still has 2-2½ knuckles
only visible (The same as you started).
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Posture is maintained with the weight still
on the balls of the feet.
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Step 3. Up until
the halfway stage the body Has moved in unison. At this point as the
Shoulders continue to turn the arms should separate and work on what
feels like a vertical path. You must release any tension from beneath
the armpits for this to happen.
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Step 4. At the
top of the backswing notice:
The shoulders have turned 90 degrees to a point underneath the chin.
- The left shoulder is to the right of the golf ball. This is possible
by allowing the head to move to the right 2-4 inches.
- The right knee has stayed in its starting position.
- The weight should be felt on the inside of the right knee.
- The left arm is extended.
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Step 5. Ask a friend
to check these positions for you!
- The clubshaft has not quite reached horizontal.
- The shaft is parallel to your target line.
- Your hands are above you right shoulder.
- The leading edge of the clubface is at 45 degrees (parallel to the
left forearm).
- The spinal angle has remained the same as it was at set up.
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Notes:
Practice with your bottom 2-3 inches away from a wall. A correct backswing
would mean that the clubhead never touches the wall.
From the front, practice a full swing in view of your
reflection, you will notice if you have a full shoulder turn and maintained
the same height as at set up.
Remember the backswing is there for 2 reasons:
- to put ourselves into the correct position so that we can attack the
ball consistently.
- To create rhythm.
>>The
downswing>> |
