Welcome back! Today, we’re diving deep into the nitty-gritty of your golf swing. If you’ve been struggling with swinging over the top or getting too steep, you’re in the right place. We’re going to explore whether your body mechanics are at play and provide some insights on how to fix these issues. So, let’s tee off on this journey to better swings and lower scores!
You can watch the video here or keep on reading:
Can’t Separate Upper and Lower Body Moves? Let’s Find Out
So, you’ve probably noticed that some folks on the course can effortlessly separate their upper and lower body movements, creating a fluid swing that’s the envy of all. But why do you struggle with it? Here’s a simple test to determine if your body is the culprit.
- Upper Body Disassociation Test: Stand in your golf posture with your knees, hips, and feet facing forward. Now, focus on rotating only your upper body from side to side while keeping your lower body stable. Can you do it without your lower body moving? If yes, great! If not, don’t worry, we’ve got some exercises for you.
- Lower Body Disassociation Test: Now, try rotating only your lower body while keeping your upper body steady. Do you find it challenging? It might be a lack of awareness or flexibility. Practice this motion with your feet close together, then gradually incorporate it into your golf posture.
Remember, pros excel at disassociating these movements, which helps them create that smooth transition and powerful swing.
Shoulder Flexibility: A Key Player in Your Swing
As we age or engage in repetitive movements, our shoulder flexibility can diminish. If you’ve been struggling with an over-the-top swing, your shoulder might be a contributing factor. Let’s put it to the test.
- Shoulder Flexibility Test: Stand up straight and try to rotate your right shoulder (for right-handed golfers) to a 90-degree angle. The key here is to keep your elbow at the same level during the rotation. If you can achieve 90 degrees, fantastic! Strive for even greater flexibility.
- Incorporate it in Your Swing: Now, match your spine angle in your golf posture and attempt the same rotation. If you can do this without dropping your elbow, your shoulder flexibility isn’t the root cause of your swing issues.
The Rushing Downswing: Where Things Often Go Awry
Ah, the classic mistake – rushing the downswing. You’re at the top of your swing, and you’re in a hurry to unleash that power. Slow down! Professionals often emphasize the feeling of gravity guiding their arms down, leading to a smoother transition.
A Tip for Arm Depth: To help prevent steep and over-the-top moves, aim to have your hands positioned over your ankles at the top of your backswing. This depth makes it easier to shallow out the club during the downswing, creating a better attack angle.
Sequence is Key
Sometimes, the issue isn’t your body’s mechanics, but the sequence of your swing. If your upper and lower body motions are sound but your swing still lacks fluidity, work on your sequence.
- Slow it Down: Start with smaller shots, focusing on getting the sequence right. Imagine a smooth circle in your downswing motion, and gradually build up the size of your swings.
- Keep Your Shoulders Closed: Especially if you tend to swing over the top, maintaining closed shoulders for a bit longer during the downswing can help you get on the right path.
Summing it Up
There you have it – a comprehensive breakdown of why you might be swinging over the top or getting too steep in your golf swing. Remember, your body mechanics play a crucial role, but it’s not the end of the road if they’re causing issues. Through awareness, practice, and maybe a little patience, you can work on improving these aspects of your swing.
So, whether you’re hitting the links for the first time or you’re a seasoned golfer looking to refine your skills, these insights should help you on your journey to a more consistent and powerful swing. Go out there and let your new and improved swing shine on the fairways!
See you next week!