Down the Target Line
MYTHCONCEPTION Looking down the target line from our stance just prior to the shot is a good thing. BUSTED Here is a tip that a lot of people have never thought about.When we are in our proper address position and we turn our head towards the intended target, our eyes are at a 45 degree angle and turned to the left (for right handed players). Our brain then interprets things more from one eye as we are looking at the target in what is referred to... [Read More...]
Impact is Not all in the Wrists
MYTHCONCEPTION Uncocking the wrist at impact equals more power. BUSTED Many golfers believe that they need to uncock their wrists right at impact in order to attain additional power. This does occur in other sports such as skillful batters uncocking to smash home runs or tennis players who uncock the wrist to hit hard serves. In golf however it’s nearly impossible to time uncocking to any real advantage. In fact, due to the long arc of the golf... [Read More...]
More Practise Translates to Greater Consistency
MYTHCONCEPTION The more I practice the better and more consistent I will get. BUSTED This theory holds true only when the player has a solid understanding of how to practice. If you’re struggling to produce the shots you’re attempting – this is where a good coach can help. Golf instruction seems to centre around error detection and correction. Anyone can read a few instruction books and tell you what you’re doing wrong. The challenge... [Read More...]
Grip it and Rip it !
MYTHCONCEPTION Grip it and Rip it ! BUSTED The golf paradox continues … Why extra effort doesn’t help you hit it further in golf. For those who made it out to the Canadian Open this year to watch the professionals play and practice, one of the things that you must have noticed was how little effort the pros appear to use relative to the distance they hit it. In physics there is a term called resonance which aptly describes the natural... [Read More...]
Fast Swing Means Long Ball
MYTHCONCEPTION A fast swing means a long ball! BUSTED One of the most important aspects of a sound golf swing is swing rhythm, or timing. What we’re talking about is the physical time it takes from address position to impact. After timing hundreds of golf swings, I have determined that the average mid to high handicapper’s swing takes between .50 and .95 of a second to take place. This is far too quick to maintain good balance or any swing... [Read More...]
Bigger Does Not Equal Further
MYTHCONCEPTION The bigger my shoulder turn the further I will hit it. BUSTED The golf swing is a funny thing. As it seems to be constantly disagreeing with what would seem logical. Commentators during a PGA Tour telecast often make note of the incredible range of motion that PGA Tour pro’s have during their swings and from this we derive – more turn and longer backswing = more yards. This type of conventional wisdom has a tipping point as... [Read More...]
Different Ball Positions
MYTHCONCEPTION There are different ball positions for every iron. BUSTED Moving the ball closer or further from your forward heel will change the ball position in the arc of your swing. Therefore the further back you play the ball (closer to back leg) the more open the face would be in relation to the target at impact. Similarly if you were to move it forward in the stance, the club would be closed in relation to the target. We swing the golf club... [Read More...]
Keep it Simple
MYTHCONCEPTION Beginner’s need simple instructions. BUSTED Throughout my career, both as a player and an instructor, I have always been told “Keep it Simple” when it comes to beginners. Unfortunately lacking pertinent information leads to the development of bad habits. Have you ever been to a beginner golf clinic where the only thing taught is grip and posture? Although grip and posture are important, leaving out the basic fundamental –... [Read More...]
I’ll Start Playing Well Now
MYTHCONCEPTION Spring is here, the golf season is starting and I will start playing well right now. BUSTED Playing well begins long before the season begins. Here are 4 ideas to get you Ready Get the Right Equipment I have heard a lot of students say “I don’t want to get new equipment until I get better.” Unfortunately your body will have to compensate for the inadequacies of outdated or improperly fitted golf clubs. If you’ve made... [Read More...]
A Good Swing Equals a Good Score
MYTHCONCEPTION Having a good swing is the most important factor to shooting lower scores. BUSTED There is very little, if any, correlation between your ball striking skills and your ability to score well. Regardless of your swing style your best golf will manifest itself when you are able to hit the greatest amount of committed shots during a round. To score better on the course it is important to know the ‘process’ that leads to hitting shots... [Read More...]
