IMPROVE YOUR SWING, BY
MAKING YOUR PRACTICES COUNT
Most golfers have, at some time, wished they could swing at the ball as freely and
smoothly as they do at an upturned leaf or piece of paper on the grass. Regardless of
outward appearances, average golfers find that their practice swings are, almost always,
far better than their swings made with the intent of striking the ball. The reason for
this is that the responsibility of success sets up fear and anxiety related to a positive
outcome. This is universally recognized. It is part and parcel to golf's intrigue.
It is rare that tension is observed in practice swings. Players, not feeling the pressure
of being entirely correct, come much closer to assuming a natural position in all elements
of the swing process. Take note of the relaxed spread of the stance and the natural
extension of the club head toward the ball in the practice swing. Then, try and emulate
them in the swing that strikes the ball.
COUNTER RESISTANCE AND
TENSION, BY STAYING BALANCED
It is important for the golfer to understand that there are no forces outside the player's
own body that limit the golfer's ability to make a natural swing. There is nothing
external that needs to be resisted or balanced. Therefore, when taking one's stance, there
is no reason to plant and brace. There is also no reason to get rigid or tense over the
prospect of preparing to hit the ball. This pre-shot position is the most easily observed
of the entire stroke, because everything is already at rest. It is good to begin the swing
there, relaxed as if one were talking while leaning on a club. Then, naturally bend over
to ground the club behind a ball positioned not too far away. Emphasizing a pre-shot
routine builds tension. Unfortunately, that tension works against every aspect of the
fluidity of the golf swing.