Here are some of my thoughts regarding the golf swing that may be of benefit to you as the new golf year approaches.
We call it a golf swing because that's what it is. Regardless of what you may think you swing the club with your arms.
The arm swing is allied to the shoulder windup in the backswing and the hip unwind in the downswing.
The shoulders should turn 90 degrees during the backswing.
In beginning the backswing "One Piece" simply means nothing working independently. It is a correlated movement - The shoulders turn smooth and the arms swing freely.
The two most common faults of the backswing are:
1. Picking the club up by lifting your shoulders.
2. Using independent hand action to either roll the face open or hold it shut.
"Hitting from the top"is a common flaw in the downswing that prevents the arms from working and swinging. It results from one of two faults:
1. Prematurely turning or spinning the shoulders into the shot. Also known as the "shoulder heave".
2. Prematurely uncocking the wrists - A jerking attempt to force the clubhead to the ball with the hands.
Both result from insufficient or "late" arm swing on the way down.
Players suffering from a lack of power or poor balance should have one simple thought at the top of the backswing: "Start down with your arms, make your arms swing the clubhead down and through the ball.."
Best wishes for a Merry Christmas and a better golf game in 2012.
Steve K.
Thursday, December 22, 2011
Friday, December 2, 2011
Understanding the importance of the arms in the release
The better your "release" the more powerful, solid and accurate your shots. You hear the term used constantly in golfing circles and by television commentators. So what exactly is the "release?"
I would best describe it as a free and fast swinging of the clubhead through the ball by the hands, wrists and arms with the emphasis on "the arms". The reason the arms must swing freely is simple. When they do we are able to apply the clubhead to the ball at our maximum speed. When they don't we are generally forced to apply ourselves to the ball; the free and fast swinging of the arms is replaced by a heave of the shoulders. It is this shoulder heave, a hurling of the torso into the shot that limits so many players from reaching their distance potential.
Here is a simple drill that I have found helps more than any other to promote the feel of a free arm swing and a proper release. This drill is to hit balls with your feet together. In this position it is practically impossible to make a shot other than with a free swinging of the arms, hands and clubhead, because any excessive use of the body leads to complete loss of balance.
Tee the ball up slightly and use a five or six iron. You'll be amazed how solidly you'll hit the ball and the distance the ball travels. This drill will help you develop the proper action of the arms and hands which is present in every good golfer's swing.
I would best describe it as a free and fast swinging of the clubhead through the ball by the hands, wrists and arms with the emphasis on "the arms". The reason the arms must swing freely is simple. When they do we are able to apply the clubhead to the ball at our maximum speed. When they don't we are generally forced to apply ourselves to the ball; the free and fast swinging of the arms is replaced by a heave of the shoulders. It is this shoulder heave, a hurling of the torso into the shot that limits so many players from reaching their distance potential.
Here is a simple drill that I have found helps more than any other to promote the feel of a free arm swing and a proper release. This drill is to hit balls with your feet together. In this position it is practically impossible to make a shot other than with a free swinging of the arms, hands and clubhead, because any excessive use of the body leads to complete loss of balance.
Tee the ball up slightly and use a five or six iron. You'll be amazed how solidly you'll hit the ball and the distance the ball travels. This drill will help you develop the proper action of the arms and hands which is present in every good golfer's swing.
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
The Pocket Caddy makes a great stocking stuffer
Steve's latest book, "The Pocket Caddy" makes the perfect stocking stuffer for the golfer on your list this Christmas. This handy quick reference manual discusses twenty of the most common faults and shot problems of the weekend player.
Steve begins each topic with a simple and clear explanation of the cause of the fault. He then explains how to correct it accompanied by detailed pen and ink illustrations and diagrams. "The Pocket Caddy" guides players through common faults and shot problems right on the course or practice tee, and will be a welcome addition to their golf bag.
To order copies of "The Pocket Caddy" call Steve at Golf Rx at (615) 288-4539 or email him at stevejkirkpatrick@comcast.net. Steve's first two books, "The Dimpled Sphere" and "Why Bad Swings happen to Good People" are also available at the store or online at Amazon. com.
Golf Rx offers gift certificates as well for instruction, equipment and club repair services and can purchased at the store.
Steve begins each topic with a simple and clear explanation of the cause of the fault. He then explains how to correct it accompanied by detailed pen and ink illustrations and diagrams. "The Pocket Caddy" guides players through common faults and shot problems right on the course or practice tee, and will be a welcome addition to their golf bag.
To order copies of "The Pocket Caddy" call Steve at Golf Rx at (615) 288-4539 or email him at stevejkirkpatrick@comcast.net. Steve's first two books, "The Dimpled Sphere" and "Why Bad Swings happen to Good People" are also available at the store or online at Amazon. com.
Golf Rx offers gift certificates as well for instruction, equipment and club repair services and can purchased at the store.
Monday, November 7, 2011
The New American Christmas Tradition
As the holidays approach, the Asian factories are busy providing Americans with monstrous piles of cheaply produced goods -- merchandise that has been produced at the expense of American labor.
Wouldn't it be nice if this year we all gave a gift produced by American hands? "But what's American made?" you say.Well, everyone gets their hair cut. How about gift certificates from your local American hair salon or barber?Gym membership? It's appropriate for all ages who are thinking about some health improvement.Who wouldn't appreciate getting their car detailed? Small, American owned detail shops and car washes would love to sell you a gift certificate or a book of gift certificates.Perhaps that grateful gift receiver would like his driveway sealed, or lawn mowed for the summer, or golf lessons from a local PGA Professional.There are tons of owner-run restaurants -- all offering gift certificates.
Remember, folks this isn't about big National chains -- this is about supporting your home town Americans with their financial lives on the line to keep their doors open.How many people couldn't use an oil change for their car, truck or motorcycle, done at a shop run by the American working guy?Thinking about a heartfelt gift for mom? Mom would LOVE the services of a local cleaning lady for a day.My computer could use a tune-up, and I KNOW I can find some young guy who is struggling to get his repair business up and running.Musicians need love too, so find a venue showcasing local bands.Honestly, people, do you REALLY need to buy another ten thousand Chinese lights for the house? When you buy a five dollar string of light, about fifty cents stays in the community. If you have those kinds of bucks to burn, leave the mailman, trash guy or babysitter a nice BIG tip.You see, Christmas is no longer about draining American pockets so that China can build another glittering city. Christmas is now about caring about US, encouraging American small businesses to keep plugging away to follow their dreams. And, when we care about other Americans, we care about our communities, and the benefits come back to us in ways we couldn't imagine. THIS is the new American Christmas tradition.
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
Great Buys on Golf Bags
Right now we have some great buys on golf bags at Golf Rx. We have a great selection of carry bags from Ogio and Ping in stock.
The Ogio Helios Bag features a 9 inch six way top, suspension strap system, fleece lined valuables pocket and is made of lightweight hex ripstop material. This bag is regularly $149.00 on sale for $109.00.
We have Ping bags all on sale including the 4 Under, Lattitude V2 and Hoofer C-1. Golf Rx can special order any bag or accessory from Ping, Igio, Callaway, Taylor Made and Adams Golf.
We also carry U.S. Kids Golf complete sets. Call or stop by today.
The Ogio Helios Bag features a 9 inch six way top, suspension strap system, fleece lined valuables pocket and is made of lightweight hex ripstop material. This bag is regularly $149.00 on sale for $109.00.
We have Ping bags all on sale including the 4 Under, Lattitude V2 and Hoofer C-1. Golf Rx can special order any bag or accessory from Ping, Igio, Callaway, Taylor Made and Adams Golf.
We also carry U.S. Kids Golf complete sets. Call or stop by today.
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
When it comes to grips, one size does not fit all..
Just for fun next time you visit a retail golf store ask the clerk why they offer gloves in sizes from small to extra large, but their rows and rows of clubs all have the same size grip. Be prepared for an awkward response.
If you're like the majority of golfers you're probably not aware that grips are available in a variety of sizes, materials and shapes.
Why is it important to fit grip size?
The proper grip size gives a golfer a comfortable feeling at address and control during the swing without inhibiting his wrist action through the impact area. A proper grip feel also enhances how the golfer mentally perceives the club which adds confidence.
Grips that are too large can decrease clubhead feel, inhibit wrist action and cause a player to choke down where the grip diameter is smaller and feels better. This effectively shortens the club and reduces swing speed.
Grips that are too small may cause the clubhead to twist at impact because the player cannot get a firm hold on the club, or squeeze the club too tightly to "hold on" to the club, thus inhibiting his wrist action before impact. It may also cause the player to hold the club too far out on the end where the grip is larger, thus increasing his chances of "losing" the club at the top of the backswing and reducing control.
How to determine proper grip size.
The best way to fit grip size is to have the player take his normal grip on the club. Next, remove the right hand only from the club, and with the left hand remaining in the same grip position, bring the club up so that the fingertips of the left hand are visible. If the fingertips dig into the palm, the grip size is too small. If the fingertips barely touch or just miss touching the heel portion of the palm, the grip size is correct. If the fingertips are separated by more that 1/8" from the heel portion of the palm, then the grip size is too large.
Keep in mind that specialty grips are also available such as arthritic grips. These grips are designed to feel softer and install to a much larger size under both the right and left hand. The softer feel and larger size allows it to be more easily held during the swing while exerting less hand pressure than would normally be required.
Often players are not aware of the poorly transmitted grip feel by using a too small a grip, too large a grip, or in most cases, a slick or hardened worn out grip. Sometimes the size is correct and the grip is new, but the player may experience another grip material or style that he likes better based on personal preference.
Grips play an important role in the club fitting process as they provide the golfer his only physical contact with the club. If you have questions about your grips or are considering re-gripping your clubs stop by Golf Rx and talk to Steve. His response will be anything but awkward...
If you're like the majority of golfers you're probably not aware that grips are available in a variety of sizes, materials and shapes.
Why is it important to fit grip size?
The proper grip size gives a golfer a comfortable feeling at address and control during the swing without inhibiting his wrist action through the impact area. A proper grip feel also enhances how the golfer mentally perceives the club which adds confidence.
Grips that are too large can decrease clubhead feel, inhibit wrist action and cause a player to choke down where the grip diameter is smaller and feels better. This effectively shortens the club and reduces swing speed.
Grips that are too small may cause the clubhead to twist at impact because the player cannot get a firm hold on the club, or squeeze the club too tightly to "hold on" to the club, thus inhibiting his wrist action before impact. It may also cause the player to hold the club too far out on the end where the grip is larger, thus increasing his chances of "losing" the club at the top of the backswing and reducing control.
How to determine proper grip size.
The best way to fit grip size is to have the player take his normal grip on the club. Next, remove the right hand only from the club, and with the left hand remaining in the same grip position, bring the club up so that the fingertips of the left hand are visible. If the fingertips dig into the palm, the grip size is too small. If the fingertips barely touch or just miss touching the heel portion of the palm, the grip size is correct. If the fingertips are separated by more that 1/8" from the heel portion of the palm, then the grip size is too large.
Keep in mind that specialty grips are also available such as arthritic grips. These grips are designed to feel softer and install to a much larger size under both the right and left hand. The softer feel and larger size allows it to be more easily held during the swing while exerting less hand pressure than would normally be required.
Often players are not aware of the poorly transmitted grip feel by using a too small a grip, too large a grip, or in most cases, a slick or hardened worn out grip. Sometimes the size is correct and the grip is new, but the player may experience another grip material or style that he likes better based on personal preference.
Grips play an important role in the club fitting process as they provide the golfer his only physical contact with the club. If you have questions about your grips or are considering re-gripping your clubs stop by Golf Rx and talk to Steve. His response will be anything but awkward...
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
The anatomy of a lesson
Students are often curious and sometimes a little nervous about taking a golf lesson. As a player myself who has taken lessons I can relate to those feelings. I hope to ease those concerns by outlining for you the format of my lessons. But before I discuss that let me explain why the golf ball itself is your best teacher.
First, a golf ball is brutally honest and never lies. On every shot it tells you exactly what your clubhead was doing at impact. Also known as "Ball Flight Laws" this is extremely important information and is the basis for long term improvement to your game.
The second reason why the golf ball is such a good teacher is it doesn't care about your particular technique. It doesn't know or care if your grip is "weak" or "strong", if your swing plane is "flat" like Matt Kuchar or "upright" like Jack Nicklaus. Nor is it concerned with your posture, alignment or ball position. All that matters to the golf ball is what the clubhead does to it.
By watching the flight of the ball I know exactly what the student's clubhead is doing at impact. This is extremely helpful information in order to show the student what they must do in their technique in order to improve their shots. It is also a much more personal application than some rigid "method teaching" meant to fit all players into the same mold.
A student must first understand that their shots, whether good or bad, are determined by the impact conditions. Which direction was the clubhead moving when it contacted the ball? Was the clubface facing to the left or right, or straight down the club path? Was the clubhead moving down, up, or parallel to the ground at impact? Was it moving at a relatively fast or slow speed?
With this explained you will have a better understanding of my teaching format which contains three parts - Diagnosis, Explanation and Correction.
Diagnosis:
First, I watch my students hit a few shots standing directly down their target line. This allows me to see the path of the clubhead as it moves through the impact area. I also see the ball's flight including the initial direction and any subsequent sideways curve. The ball's flight combined with observing the clubhead's path tells me where the clubface was facing at impact. At this point I am able to make a diagnosis based on what the club is doing to the ball and what the player is doing to the club.
Explanation:
Second, I give the student an explanation of what the club is doing at impact as well as what it should be doing in order to improve his or her shots. I may hit a shot or two reproducing the student's impact conditions resulting in a similar ball flight. Then I'll hit a shot or two with proper impact conditions to show the student how an improved condition will similarly improve his or her shots.
Correction:
Third, I explain to the student what correction techniques will improve their impact conditions. Often I will demonstrate the correction accompanied by a drill or practice tip that will further simplify the student's effort.
This is not to say that our impact conditions aren't determined by the way we grip the club, set up to the ball and actually swing. They certainly are. What I am saying is that the flight of the ball greatly assists you in knowing what you should change in your technique in order to improve your shots.
In closing I would offer this advice to amateur and weekend players. Never accept a piece of instruction, no matter how impressive the presentation, without first asking just how this advice will improve your clubhead's impact with the ball.
First, a golf ball is brutally honest and never lies. On every shot it tells you exactly what your clubhead was doing at impact. Also known as "Ball Flight Laws" this is extremely important information and is the basis for long term improvement to your game.
The second reason why the golf ball is such a good teacher is it doesn't care about your particular technique. It doesn't know or care if your grip is "weak" or "strong", if your swing plane is "flat" like Matt Kuchar or "upright" like Jack Nicklaus. Nor is it concerned with your posture, alignment or ball position. All that matters to the golf ball is what the clubhead does to it.
By watching the flight of the ball I know exactly what the student's clubhead is doing at impact. This is extremely helpful information in order to show the student what they must do in their technique in order to improve their shots. It is also a much more personal application than some rigid "method teaching" meant to fit all players into the same mold.
A student must first understand that their shots, whether good or bad, are determined by the impact conditions. Which direction was the clubhead moving when it contacted the ball? Was the clubface facing to the left or right, or straight down the club path? Was the clubhead moving down, up, or parallel to the ground at impact? Was it moving at a relatively fast or slow speed?
With this explained you will have a better understanding of my teaching format which contains three parts - Diagnosis, Explanation and Correction.
Diagnosis:
First, I watch my students hit a few shots standing directly down their target line. This allows me to see the path of the clubhead as it moves through the impact area. I also see the ball's flight including the initial direction and any subsequent sideways curve. The ball's flight combined with observing the clubhead's path tells me where the clubface was facing at impact. At this point I am able to make a diagnosis based on what the club is doing to the ball and what the player is doing to the club.
Explanation:
Second, I give the student an explanation of what the club is doing at impact as well as what it should be doing in order to improve his or her shots. I may hit a shot or two reproducing the student's impact conditions resulting in a similar ball flight. Then I'll hit a shot or two with proper impact conditions to show the student how an improved condition will similarly improve his or her shots.
Correction:
Third, I explain to the student what correction techniques will improve their impact conditions. Often I will demonstrate the correction accompanied by a drill or practice tip that will further simplify the student's effort.
This is not to say that our impact conditions aren't determined by the way we grip the club, set up to the ball and actually swing. They certainly are. What I am saying is that the flight of the ball greatly assists you in knowing what you should change in your technique in order to improve your shots.
In closing I would offer this advice to amateur and weekend players. Never accept a piece of instruction, no matter how impressive the presentation, without first asking just how this advice will improve your clubhead's impact with the ball.
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