Last month I covered grip pressure. I received many comments on that subject. Many of the comments centered on how easy it was to hit the ball with lighter pressure. I am glad that the tip helped so many golfers.

This month I want to discuss the role of the arms on the down swing. Once you reach the top of your golf swing, the real fun begins! At this point, all you have to do is keep your arms close to your body as you swing towards the golf ball. You do not want to create space between your arms and your chest at the beginning of the down swing. This position allows your arms to drop into the slot and create the correct path into the back of the golf ball. The correct path will be from slightly in to slightly out on the way from the top of your back swing to a point just after impact. Here is a couple of drills that will help you feel this action. Please remember to keep your grip light so you can feel the club head.

Drill #1 Pump Drill.

1. Assume your normal address position.
2. Take your normal back swing and stop at the top.
3. Move your arms down to your hips, keeping your arms close to your body.
4. Repeat 5 times.
5. Take 5 practice swings.

Drill #2 Right Foot Flare Drill

1. Assume your normal address position.
2. Pick up your right toe.
3. Pivot your right toe to the right as far as possible. Do not move your heel!
4. Place your right toe on the ground.
5. Take 5 practice swings very slowly back and through. Keep your right foot on the ground.
6. Hit 5 golf balls. Keep your right foot on the ground.
7. Take your normal address position and hit 5 more golf balls.
8. Repeat this process several times.

Both of these drills are designed to allow you to swing from in to out. While playing, your primary thought should be to keep your arms close to your body on the downswing. Good luck and good golfing!