After 50 years of playing golf, I have come to the conclusion that I do not know as much about golf as I think. I have read, watched videos, practice, practiced some more, competed in tournaments, shot under par, shot three holes in one, and made a few eagles through my journey. And yet, the amount of information about ball striking that I do not know seems to never end. Each time I think I have a solution to a challenge, another crops up and challenges me mentally (and sometimes physically) to change my thinking to start down another swing path. Needless to say, all of this change can be frustrating, however I have to say that it is a fundamental reason why I love the game of golf!
Continue readingsolid ball striking
Hitting The Ball Properly On The Clubface
The science to hitting a golf ball has not changed in many years. The discussion on how we hit the ball may vary from time to time, but the actual science behind the kinetic action remains stalwart. The challenge for most amateurs is converting the knowledge of ball striking into consistent successful actions. This particular point is on that many players need to refine regardless of our skill level. There is on point though that is often overlooked. The advice offered by experts is only the 80% solution. We still need to put in some range time to actually determine the ball position, stance position, contact points, etc. It is not as daunting as stated, but does need some attention.
Continue readingYour Lead Shoulder Position During Contact
Many aspects of our golf swing are connected. Regardless of what our training focus is on any given day, it will bleed over to other aspects of our swing. During today’s discussion, Johnny Miller talks about returning our lead shoulder back to the original set up position before making contact. His view is that this movement helps with compression and contact and, of course, he is correct. However, there are some secondary results that should not be overlooked. They are as important as the main area of your training focus.
Continue readingStop Hitting Behind The Golf Ball
If you are hitting the ground first on your golf shot, well it is time to stop it! By hitting the ball first, we create solid contact, greater distances, and more accuracy on every shot. The challenge is understanding ways to fix this swing fault by using simple drills that are easy to replicate and understand. Many times the drills used are a rehash of previously mentioned fixes, but that is a good thing because the topics are important.
Continue readingCreating Solid Contact With Focus
Creating solid contact on the golf ball is every golfers goal. It is not something that can be overlooked because control, distance, and accuracy are negatively affected if we cannot hit the ball well. I have tried many different drills that promise to create solid contact, but many of them are an illusion because my swing abilities did not meet the expectations. Well, Kevin (an avid reader of The Grateful Golfer) sent me this video that solves my previous challenges. It is simple to follow, easy to replicate, and sustainable. All the tenents of a great golf drill.
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