Keys to the swing

To develop a good swing of the arms in conjuction with the turning of the body we must first understand a few key points.

The first is that the club does not have to reach parallel to the ground on the back swing. In fact for every club other than the driver it should not reach parallel.

Many golfers bend their left arm as a result of trying to swing their arms to high thereby actually reducing the length of their swing. To practice swinging the arms correctly on the back swing hold the left wrist, turn the shoulders and chest around the stable right thigh.

As the body turns allow the arms to swing up to a point where they are level to the ground. At this point the hands and neck should form a straight line to the target. There is no need to swing any higher as momentum and the weight of the club will carry the hands and arms to the completion of the back swing.

Practice this drill without a club and with the aid of a mirror.

Terry Gingell is now taking signups for sports camps, junior golf camps and adult group lessons. For more information, call Gingell, 887-7174.