The Down Swing

The Down Swing

The down swing is the final act of the golf swing. Here the results of proper grip, alignment, stance, posture and backswing can bear fruition and lead us to correctly completing our golf swing.

The down swing can be split into several steps which need to be undertaken, like the backswing, in a fluid movement. Do not try to hit at the ball with the arms and upper body. This will likely result in an out to in swing path as will be seen from observing the majority of amateur golfers. Instead try to execute the down swing from the legs upwards ending with the movement of the hands and club.

Step 1, the initial phase, begins with the left knee (right knee for left handers) moving laterally towards the target. This pulls on the left (right) side of the body which, in turn, begins the rotation of the left (right) shoulder. You must always have the feeling that movement of the arms has begun at the left (right) shoulder. Try to keep the head static at all times.

The right side (left side for left handers) now begins to drive towards the target, shifting the body weight on to the left (right) foot. The shoulders and arms begin to rotate following on behind the legs and hips. You need to have the impression that the body is dragging the hands behind it. Do not attempt to hit at the ball, this will force the hands and arms to gain control over the swing.

In Step 2, we see that the arms and hands begin to catch up with the rest of the body. As the club head approaches the ball the wrists uncock creating a large amount of clubhead speed as the clubface sweeps the ball from its path Step 3. Do not forcefully try to uncock the wrists. As long as the wrists remain relaxed the movement of the arms will produce a natural hinge effect. If the grip has been formed correctly the club face will be returned square resulting in a straight, powerful stroke

As the ball is swept away in Step 4, the right wrist needs to be rotated over the left hand (left wrist over right for left handers) at the start of the follow through. This will ensure that the clubface is not 'blocked' out to the right. Body weight has now shifted on to the left (right) foot.

The eyes are still focused on the ball position, leaving the shoulders to pull the head through to the balanced finish position Step 5.

As with the back swing, an even tempo is required throughout the down swing and follow through. Try to picture in your mind the feeling of producing a slow motion golf swing.

Like thousands of other golfers you may have noticed that your practice swing is often perfect but deteriorates as soon as you address the ball. Learn how to transfer your practice swing action into a solid swing technique by visiting Moore About Golf which gives information on how you can achieve and maintain a consistent golf swing.

Stay relaxed, ensure that your grip, posture and set up are correct and you will begin to hit straighter, consistent shots.

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