Developing a swing that produces a superb blend of distance and accuracy is what will ultimately result in a lower handicap. The longest and straightest golfers are PGA and LPGA tour players. They produce enormous distance and at the same time exhibit amazing precision with their shots. By improving your swing mechanics and making it more efficient, you will enjoy the maximum distance you can achieve and hit the ball straighter as well.
These photos of Brooks Koepka are in the mid-downswing position many times referred to as P-5. This is a point in the swing where the elite golfer has demonstrated maximum force on the lead leg and the maximum angle between the left arm and clubshaft (left photo). In addition, the right heel is raised off the ground and the hips are rotated open to the target while the shoulders remain closed with the clubshaft bisecting the trail bicep assuring an inside swing path (right photo).
One of the common faults I encounter in my teaching is what I label the Upper-Body Dive. The correct sequence in the downswing is to lead with the lower body by generating power from the ground through the legs and hips. The upper body remains relatively stable and coiled creating a stretch between the lower body and the upper body and arms. This stores energy in the swing resulting in greater clubhead speed. The consequences of an upper-body dive will force the club to release too early (photo below) on the downswing-losing both the power of the lower body as well as the speed of the club. It prevents you from moving your trail side down and through the shot correctly.
Looking at the swing from behind, or down the target line, the upper-body dive cost you accuracy as well. The limited use of the lower body shift and turn curbs your ability to channel the club into the ball along the proper swing path. The upper-body dive is one of the main causes of the “over the top” moves, which will result in a nasty pull or slice (photo below).
To see an instruction video on the Upper-Body Dive click here.
The two previous articles that will be helpful in avoiding the Upper-Body Dive are below:
A Blueprint for Longer Drives Off the Tee
Precision Perfected: Elevating Your Game Through Accurate Ball Striking
