American Hole 'n One's Blog

While many players dream of a professional golf career, few ever achieve it. Whether or not it is in the cards for you, you can at least acquire a swing that is like the pros. While the actual mechanics are subject to debate and many experts will give wildly different instructions, here are some fundamental pieces of advice that can help you swing like a professional.

Know What to Relax

The best swing instructors will tell you that, whether you are driving or putting, a good swing is a perfect balance of tension and relaxation. For example, when swinging, the wrists should be relaxed so that they can swing in concert with the movement of the club. Locking the wrists may work for part of the motion, but a full range of motion for a drive will be severely hampered by this tension.

Rotate Your Shoulders

Body mechanics are as important as touch when it comes to a golf swing, and keeping the hips centered while the shoulders rotate, stabilizes the swing and ensures contact with the ball. The momentum of the swing should naturally continue into the follow through after contact. Whether you are left handed or right handed, the opposing arm (left for a right-hander) will remain straight while the dominant arm bends at the elbow.

Know When to Change Direction

At the beginning of the swing, the player will feel pressure in their wrists which travels through the hands and arms as they begin the swing. This feeling is the pendulum force that is realized at the head of the club. It will naturally keep the wrists cocked where they need to be until the swing returns to waist level.

Focus on the Downswing

The downswing is characterized as being the reverse of the backswing, and the player will feel the pressure in their dominant hip (right for right-handers) when the hips remain straight as the shoulders turn. This is a point where large movements are discouraged and small movements best for the swing. When the player strikes the ball, the momentum of the swing will rotate the body to the left.

Keep It Natural

The more stiff or artificial a swing feels, the more difficult it will be to correct mistakes. When first learning a professional swing, it may feel strange to just relax and swing, trusting the momentum of the club. However, with diligent practice, this professional swing can be attained and your deficiencies isolated and compensated for.

It may take some time a great deal of practice, but if you follow these simple tips your swing will improve significantly from the driving range to the practice putting green. When you are ready to put your golf swing to the test, call us at 800.822.2257 for more information about our contests and promotions or fill out our contact form!