The Importance of Balance in a Golf Swing

The proper tempo and balance lead to consistent golf shots.

You may have noticed how easily PGA Tour professionals swing a golf club. While the swing appears effortless, they are generating an enormous amount of clubhead speed. They maximize their ability by maintaining their balance and swinging the golf club with the proper tempo. Balance in the golf swing is essential to consistent golf shots.

Set Up

The correct set-up places you in an athletic position that will support the rotational movements of the golf swing. Set up to the golf ball with your feet shoulder width apart. If your feet are not wide enough, it will not support the wide arc of the golf swing. This will cause a loss of balance through the swing. Your weight should be equally balanced on the inside of your feet. Avoid allowing your weight to fall on your toes or back on the heels. An unbalanced set-up will cause swing faults in the swing plane and path. This will lead to inconsistent golf shots.

Backswing

A proper weight shift is required to maintain your balance in the swing. During the backswing, the weight shifts toward the right leg and foot. Keep the right knee flexed at the top of the back swing. Straightening the right knee will lead to a reverse weight shift and a loss of balance through the remainder of the swing.

Downswing

The downswing starts as the hips begin to uncoil in the swing. Essentially all of your weight is being transferred over to the left leg and foot. The body continues to uncoil while the club swings down toward impact. A smooth tempo is necessary to maintain your balance.

Follow Through

The finished product of the golf swing is a balanced follow-through. At the completion of the golf swing, the left foot will remain flat on the ground. The body will rotate towards the target and you will be on your right toe. Check if your body turned correctly by making sure your belt buckle faces the target.

Tempo

One of the most important ingredients to maintain your balance is a smooth tempo. Good players appear to swing easy while producing a powerful swing. The swing appears effortless. A common swing fault for many amateurs is overswinging. Notice how easy it is to maintain your balance by making a half swing. It is important to play within your own ability and make a smooth golf swing. When you maintain a good tempo and balance throughout your swing, you greatly improve your chances of making consistent and more accurate golf shots.