3 Basics of the Golf Swing

Sure, there are an exhausting number of variables that can play out in any round but there are three basics of the golf swing that you need to master every time. Learning which iron to pull and if the green is faster or slower when wet are all things you will learn with practice. In fact, you never stop learning in the game of golf, there is always going to be a new shot with a different challenge but if you can master the basics, you will be able to address everything else more effectively.

So, just what are the three most important and difficult components in the game of golf? Stance, grip and swing! If you can't excel at these three things, you'll never have a chance at becoming an exceptional golfer.

Begin with Your Stance

Is your stance really that important? Who wants to be bothered with evaluating their head to their toes, right? The funny thing is, the stance is where the majority of errors are made, and for many golfers, a few corrections can solve many of their problems.

Unless you're chipping or putting, your feet will be about shoulder width apart so you can distribute your weight a little easier. Your back needs to be straight, but your chest should be low, with your knees slightly bent. The easiest way to achieve this position is to simply tilt your pelvis upward.

Finding Your Neutral Grip

Your grip should never be tight or loose. Imagine putting masking tape from your wrists down the club, this is how your hands are meant to act, which is as an extension piece from one point to another. If you grip the club too tight, you will likely slice or hook the ball, too loose and you will lose control!

There are three types of grips which are the interlock, overlap and baseball grip. There is no right or wrong grip; you should choose one that you feel the most comfortable with. This may take a little trial and error.

? Interlock - The pinkie on your right hand will be intertwined with your left hand's index finger.
? Overlap - Your right hand's pinkie finger will rest over the area between your index and middle finger on your left hand.
? Baseball - Your right and left hand rest side by side, just like if you were swinging a baseball bat.

Perfecting the Swing

Your swing includes the backswing as well as the downswing, all the way through till the end. None of the components of a swing should be thought of as their own entity but rather as one whole piece. Everything about the swing should be fluid from the takeaway to the follow through.

Many golfers make the error of trying to generate or force power in their downswing. This is a mistake. Your power begins with your hips, not your shoulders, wrists or knees. Make the most of your hips by simply shifting your weight and the rest of your body will follow.

To see the most distance, make sure that you follow through after impact. Don't pause or stop, finishing off the arc of your swing is imperative. Most importantly, never stop evaluating and practicing the basics, regardless of how good you get. There is always room to improve in the game of golf!

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