Addressing the back swing

The back swing.

The golf swing must be learned in the proper sequence. The golf swing is a combination of positions linked together in an athletic, rhythmic and balanced motion. The positions that go toward building a consistent golf swing are not difficult to explain and there are not as many important positions as you would think. The problems that plague most golfers are simple to explain. The first is not having a clear picture of what is correct. The second problem is not understanding the correct sequence of events. The golf swing starts with the address position. Standing to the

ball correctly positions you for the next step. Having developed a good address position you are positioned to make an athletic pivot motion.

It is only after moving the body well that we can focus on what the hands and arms are doing. To develop an athletic pivot motion we start with the back swing.

The back swing is a rotation of the shoulders and chest around a stable right thigh. The lower body resists against the turning of the upper body.

This does not mean that the lower body does not move at all. The lower body must resist but must not be rigid. The hips will rotate but must not slide laterally.

Keys points to the pivot motion of the back swing.

Shoulders and chest rotate around the right thigh (approximately 90 degrees).

The body angle formed at the address position remains constant.

No lateral hip sliding.

The weight has transferred to the right side by way of rotation.

The chest is positioned above the right thigh.

Practice by placing a club on the inside of the right foot and holding another across the shoulders.

Rotate the shoulders until the club across the shoulders is above the club on the ground.

Terry Gingell is the Director of Instruction at Eagle Valley Golf. Sign up now for junior golf camps, Summer Sports Camps and adult group lessons. Terry can be reached at 887-7174.