GOLF TIP OF THE MONTH
By: Bob Schade

The relationship between the arms and the body during the golf swing is the most important factor in the golf swing. This relationship determines which way the ball flies or if it flies at all. It is a very simple definition that dictates the flight of the golf ball. If your arms move faster than your body turns you will draw or hook the ball. If your body turns faster than your arms swing you will fade or slice the ball.

Now think of how you hit the ball most of the time. Most of you, statistically speaking, slice the ball. That means that your arms are trailing your body as you make contact with the ball. This drill will help you slow your body down. This will make your arms reach the impact zone a moment sooner.

1. Take your normal address position.
2. Lift up your left (front) toe.
3. Rotate your toe to a position pointing behind the ball.
4. Place your toe on the ground.

Start swinging a club very slowly back and through. Slowly increase the speed of your practice swings until you reach full speed. Then place a golf ball on a tee and start by hitting a golf ball at half speed. Slowly increase the pace of your swing until you reach full speed. You should notice that the ball will start curving to the left.

Practice this on the range and you will notice that this drill will slow your body and thus speed up your arms. This will create a motion that puts right to left spin on the golf ball. Wow, a hook! Who could have imagined! Good luck and good golfing!