DOWNSWING
- Just as it was in the corresponding point in the takeaway, the clubhead is between my arms and the clubface is square.
- The left arm must be almost perpendicular to the ground as the right forearm points at the ball. Keeping the upper left arm close to the chest is also a hallmark of good players.
- My right leg has maintained its flex and has stayed back and away from the ball. Collapsing the right leg as you approach impact prevents a proper release and saps power.
- Notice how my back is still at the same angle it held at address. Maintaining this angle throughout the swing is a must.
Downswing Drill
An exercise I recommend to my students that helps them ingrain the proper downswing positions is called the Pump Drill. Assume your normal setup position and take the club up to the top of the swing. From there, slowly move the club to three-quarters down and then to a position that’s parallel to the ground.
At first, move the club as slowly as you need to achieve the proper positions and continue to pump the club in sets of three. As you feel more confident that you’re in the right spots, you can speed up the pumps until you’re moving at the same rate as a normal swing. As you perform this drill, be certain to keep your right hip back, away from the ball, and your right knee flexed.
Closed Shoulder
One of the true keys to delivering the club into the ball like a Tour pro is a left shoulder position that’s slightly closed and slightly lower than the right. Keeping the shoulder closed prevents the body from spinning into the ball, which tends to cause glancing blows and slices. A left shoulder that’s slightly lower than the right keeps the club on-plane and prevents a too-inside swing path.
Pro Techniques
Copy John Huston’s downswing technique and learn to hit the ball like a Tour pro.
John Huston is a prime example of a golfer who delivers the club with the proper technique. Notice how far back his right hip remains as he begins to bring the club down from the top, and how well he maintains the flex in his right knee. By keeping his knee and hip in these positions, Huston is able to swing the club past his body with plenty of speed and without any restrictions. If he were to collapse his right side into the ball earlier, his hip and leg would block his path, and the club would get stuck behind him. Golfers who get stuck tend to hit hooks and pushes.
