If you have not read Simplify Your Golf Backswing For More Consistency it may be helpful to do so as the end of the backswing is, well…the start of the downswing. It was mentioned in that article you do not hit the ball on your backswing. Well, that is definitely not the case with your downswing and that simple fact alone can cause problems. We would all like to be able to reproduce our practice swing when we step up to the ball but that doesn’t usually happen! So, what golf downswing tip or tips can help you arrive at the ball ready to make solid contact?
A good downswing is made possible by a good backswing. The basic premise of a good backswing is not to over-swing. This could be due to either trying to rotate more than your body is capable of or by continuing to swing your arms backwards after your shoulders and chest have stopped turning.
The first question then is how to initiate the downswing? As with all the articles on this site the explanation will not be overly complex because you are likely looking for a couple simple golf swing tips to help you enjoy the game more. If you are like most golfers you have a tendency to slice the ball. This could be partially due to grip, alignment or ball position. It could also be due to the fact that your arms and hands simply cannot catch-up to your lower body at impact.
So, what then is the best golf tip for starting the downswing? Quiet down your lower body and do not aggressively drive your leading hip toward the target. This causes your lower body to race ahead of your upper body and also results in more of a sliding motion rather than a rotational one. Rather, try initiating the downswing with your arms, shoulders and chest. This may feel somewhat stiff and not the powerful feeling you are searching for but it is the proper hand action at impact that will cause the ball to fly off the clubface producing that elusive distance. If you stay centered over the ball and retain your spine angle on your backswing and downswing you will be rewarded with more consistent and solid shots.
One of the simplest drills to help you quiet down your lower body is to take a golf shaft or something similar and stick it in the ground a couple inches away from your leading hip in line with the target. The goal is then to take your downswing without bumping or sliding your hip into the shaft. This will encourage you to “post up” on your leading leg which provides the resistance needed to deliver a solid strike. The impact position you want to arrive at is basically your address position but with the majority of weight on your leading leg and a little more shaft angle – this is what will help ensure the descending blow that is required for a well struck ball.