Golf Swing Shallowing Discussion
Introduction
- Focus on how clubs move in successful golf swings.
- Data from players with significant achievements: 35+ Majors, 400+ wins, 28 wins this year.
Understanding Shallow vs. Steep
- Shallow Club: Shaft angle at left arm parallel points at or beyond the golf ball.
- Steep Club: Shaft angle points inside the golf ball.
- Misleading perspectives from 2D views; swings happen in 3D.
Common Misconceptions
- Many golfers misinterpret the top of the swing appearance, thinking they need to flatten the club unnecessarily.
- True shallow point is often at the top of the swing from a face-on view.
Key Terms
- Internal and External Rotation: Common in golf instruction, misuse of external rotation discussed.
- Horizontal Shoulder Adduction/Abduction: Important for arm positioning.
- Elbow Bend: Misconception linking it with holding lag.
- Arm Lifting and Lowering: Relative to the body, not the ground.
- Forearm Pronation and Supination: Important arm movements, not wrist.
Problematic Movements
- Steep Out of the Top: Club steepens early in the downswing, known as the arm wrestling move or pull down.
- Arms Up Club Out Move: Results in over-rotation and misaligned hands.
Body and Arm Interactions
- Emphasize both body and arm movements, not just one.
- Misinterpretations often lead to more physical effort without better results.
Analyzing Pros vs. Amateurs
- Pros have efficient, less complex movement patterns.
- Amateurs may be doing more physical work, not necessarily better for performance.
Common Faults and Fixes
- Over-rotation without proper arm movement: Leads to undesired club position.
- Misleading Perspective: Importance of 3D understanding.
Improving the Swing
- Mobility Test: Assess physical ability to perform tour-level movements.
- Training Recommendations: Focus on lowering the arms and correct positioning.
Conclusion
- Shallowing the club is simpler than perceived; avoid overcomplicating.
- Record practice for self-assessment.
- Consider professional guidance for precision.
- AMG Plus Membership: Option for online coaching.
Action Items
- Practice: Incorporate drills to improve shallowness.
- Feedback: Use video recordings for checking progress.
Ensure clarity by revisiting these concepts and practicing with emphasis on both understanding and execution.