AT THE TOP
- The hands should be well above the shoulders as the club reaches the top of the backswing, producing a wide arc.
- The right elbow is clearly away from the body, which helps produce both leverage and power.
- My back is facing the target as my hands reach the top of the backswing, indicating I’ve made a full turn.
- Maintaining the flex in the right knee is absolutely critical! Don’t straighten the right leg at this point.
Top Notch
Though it might not seem as exciting as other aspects of the golf swing, achieving a solid at the top position is something that every Tour player and better golfer takes seriously. If you look closely at Ernie Els (below), Tiger Woods or anyone among golf’s elite, you’ll see a lot of similarities, including a wide right elbow, a flexed right knee and an upper body that’s stacked above supporting legs. If you’ve ever wondered why professional golfers look so effortless and in control during the swing, one of the main reasons is their mastery of the at the top position.
Parallel Parked
Notice how the clubshaft is parallel to the target line, not pointing to one side or the other. Achieving this position at the top of the swing is extremely important for any golfer hoping to produce straight shots. A slightly cupped left wrist promotes better ballstriking.
At The Top Drill
The best way to learn a proper at the top position is to continue the takeaway drill described earlier. After you get to what I like to call checkpoint one in the takeaway, simply raise the club up over your shoulder, without manipulating it with your hands or wrists. At this point, your shoulders, hips and knees have rotated as far as they need to go.
Pro Techniques
Two-time U.S. Open Champion Ernie Els displays a perfect at the top position.
The Big Easy, Ernie Els, is without a doubt one of the most technically sound golfers in the world, which contributes largely to why he’s also one of the best golfers on the planet. Notice how his right knee maintains its flex all the way through the sequence. It’s the key to his outstanding balance, perfectly controlled golf swing and effortless production of power.
