STROKE OF THE DAY |
"Winning isn't everything, but wanting it is. " |
-Arnold Palmer |
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Rhythm, timing and balance are key elements of the golf swing. The natural reaction for new golfers is to swing fast and hard. It takes a while to learn that swinging hard doesn’t always produce the most distance. Watch a professional and observe the fluid, easy motion of their swing. It’s hard to copy, but it proves that swinging within yourself leads to good balance, more power and improved accuracy. It’s difficult to have good balance without good posture. Your feet should be shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent and hips tilted with a straight back. This promotes better balance. Visualize other athletic motions, such as catching a ball or skiing. Your body weight should be on the balls of your feet and evenly distributed between the right and left foot. Training aids such as a balance board or a weighted club can help a new golfer feel a slower swing motion and a steadier position over the ball during the swing. Work on drills such as swinging while standing on one foot, and then the other. This also can lead to slower tempo and better balance. Tempo and rhythm mean keeping the speed of the swing steady and smoothly accelerating throughout the entire motion. Beginners often let their tempo get too quick, especially during the transition from the backswing to the forward motion and through the moment of impact. Work on tempo, rhythm and balance. They’re vital parts for building a consistent and repeatable golf swing. Heidi Richardson is a PGA teaching professional at Encinitas Ranch Golf Course. She can be reached at (760) 944-1936. |
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