Anatomy of a Golf Swing

Learn the basics of the golf swing from a professional for the best results.

While some people are “a natural” when they first pick up a golf club, playing golf doesn't come easily for most beginners--so taking lessons to get the basics down pat is well worth the effort. It is much easier to learn the correct form from a certified PGA golf pro than to correct mistakes in your golf swing later on. Keep in mind that developing consistency and a good "touch" in golf is an ongoing process.

Golf Lessons

Some beginners choose to take inexpensive golf clinics with others at their level to learn about such issues as grip, weight shift and follow through. These classes often address golf rules and etiquette as well. After you learn the basics, you may choose to take private lessons for individualized instruction. One effective technique used in private lessons is videotape, where the instructor reviews your taped swing with you and provides pointers for improvement.

Pre-shot Routine

A good golf swing begins before your club makes contact with the ball. Place your feet as wide as your shoulders when using a driver, and as wide as your hips for other clubs. Grip the golf club between the first and second joint of your index finger all the way to the base of your pinkie. Close your hand with the heel on the top of the club and the thumb to the back. Look at the club head to be certain that the face of the club is facing the flag at the hole. Instead of resting the club on the ground, allow the club head to hover just above the ground behind the ball. One trick for alignment is to select a spot on the ground a foot or two away from your club, between the club and the flag. Keep this spot in mind as you hit the ball.

Check Your Posture

For correct posture, push your hips back and up so that your chest is lowered and your weight is near the back of the arch of your foot toward your heels. Your knees should be soft, and there should be no tension in your arms and shoulders.

The Backstroke

A correct backstroke is vital to a correct swing. They key to the backstroke or takeaway is the shoulder turn. If you're a right-handed golfer, keep your left arm straight or bent slightly and bring the club back as if your left arm were hinged at the shoulder. Swing your arm until the left shoulder approaches the right armpit to complete a shoulder turn. Concentrate on having your hands, arms, and shoulders working together for a smooth swing. Your wrists should be cocked at a 90-degree angle by the time your left arm is parallel to the ground. Keep the heel of your right foot down, and shift your weight to the back leg as you take the club back.

Hitting the Ball

Begin the downswing by moving the knee closest to the hole toward the target as your lower body slides toward the flag. Your body will uncoil, and your weight will shift to the front side. As in other sports, a strong follow through after you connect with the ball will provide extra power for more distance.

References

• Golf Swing: Build the proper golf swing
• First Beginners Golf Swing Tips