GOLF TIP OF THE MONTH

By: Bob Schade

The shifting of the bodies’ weight is one of the most confusing parts of the golf swing to learn. Most students make the mistake of assuming that the body shifts regardless of the arms. This is not true. The length of the arm swing determines the amount of weight shift on the backswing.

A good example is that of Tiger Woods and John Daly. John Daly’s swing is incredibly long and there is a lot of shifting side to side. On the other hand, Tiger’s swing is much shorter and there isn’t nearly the same amount of weight shift. How does this relate to the common player? The common player would be better served to let the length of the arm swing determine the amount of weight shift. On a putt; no weight shift, on a chip; no weight shift, on a pitch; minimal weight shift, and iron and wood play; the longer the club the more weight shifts onto the right foot. That is the first part of the weight shift equation.

The second part of the weight shift equation is this question: When do I shift my weight forward? Most of my students make the mistake of moving their bodies before you move your arms. This is incorrect and makes no sense. The arms travel during the backswing about 4 to 5 feet, the body moves about 12 to 18 inches. When the backswing is complete and the downswing begins the arms have to be given the time to catch up. My swing thought has always been to start my arms first. That allows my arms to catch up with my body.

Remember one of the most important definitions in golf instruction. If your arms move faster than your body turns, you will hit a draw or hook. If your body moves faster than your arms swing, you will hit a fade or slice. Which one do you want to hit? Which one will give you more distance? The answer in almost every case is the draw or hook. Check out the drill outlined below to help you feel the proper way to shift your weight.

1. Take your normal address position with your driver.

2. Position the majority of your body’s weight on your right foot.

3. Take your normal backswing.

4. On the downswing do not let your weight move forward onto your left foot until you feel the club contact the ball.

5. After striking the golf ball, follow through to your left foot.

6. Hold your finish for 5 seconds.