The topic of using a different swing for different golf clubs often arises when chatting with my friends. Because each club is designed for a different purpose and distance, many feel that a different style of swing is warranted. It is an interesting concept, but not one that I do not subscribe too because I have a difficult enough time maintaining one swing. I will make a disclaimer about this topic: this discuss centers around a full swing and full swings only. Having established the parameters of our discussion, I think I understand where the confusion arises for most amateurs and it really has nothing to do with the actual swing mechanics. The challenge centers around their setup and expected results.

Following all the possible suggestions offered about the proper way to swing a golf club, I can easily see how amateurs, including myself, can be confused. The discussion about grip position, hand position during the swing, the hips, the knees, and many more provide a fire hose of information that can be a challenge to digest. I consider myself fortunate because when I started learning to play golf, the process was more hands on. A few great players took me under their wing and helped develop the basic swing I use today. As such, I was able to develop a swing that worked for me without all the white noise offered by a plethora of golfers. It was definitely a simpler time when I started golfing.

The confusion about the different strokes of a golf swing occur with ball position and set up. I know my swing is slightly steeper than others, but that does not change the fact that my ball position and set up are fundamentally critical to a successful golf shot. I experienced challenges in the past describing exactly what I mean because many of my motions are natural and I do not think about them. The video below solves this challenge and should clarify what I am talking about:

What I like best about the video is how the instructor explains the different club positions for the change in ball position. I think it is important to understand that as our club selection changes, we have a different set up, but our swing should remain the same. That is one key to a consistent game. If our swing is consistent, we can start to make minor adjustments to other aspects of our mechanics. This simple approach to golf is one that I support and will continue to focus upon as I move forward.

As you develop your game, keep in mind that having only one swing might be the key to lower golf scores.

I am a grateful golfer! See you on the links!