If one was to single out the most important portion of the golf swing, it would have to be impact. Impact is defined as section of the golf swing where the club meets the ball. Looking at the myriad of swings on the professional tours, only one section of ALL their swings look similar, the moment of truth – IMPACT.
This moment of truth can explain why people with seemingly good swings can make awfully bad shots (the lithe hot chick at the range); and why professionals with swings that resemble a butcher in action can win majors (Jim Furyk, Hubert Green et al).
Until one has an idea of what impact should feel like, it is pointless to work on the other aspects of the golf swing. Yes, how you grip, how you stand, half swings and full swings have no place in your curriculum unless and until you master the gateway to correct golf.
Too many people try to walk before they can even crawl so to speak in golf. Having given more lessons than I care to remember, less than a handful of students was actually thrilled at not being able to hit full swings under my tutelage.
Most players have been given a wrong concept of how to learn and play by their well meaning friends. Notwithstanding, this problem is further compounded by some coaches who encourage them to practice with their 7 irons until they build in some semblance of muscle memory.
Practice does not make perfect, it makes permanent your motion whether correct or wrong! If you cannot even strike the ball correctly in a chip shot, you will have no chance with a full swing.
So what are optimum impact alignments?
1. A flat left wrist and a bent right wrist
2. Hands ahead of the ball
3. Grip end of the club leaning towards the target
4. Hands opposite the left thigh
5. Head centered between the stance
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