Initiate the downswing

From the back swing position described in last week's column we can initiate the downswing correctly and easily.

A correct start to the downswing gets the club on the correct path as it approaches the ball helping to eliminate the problems caused by the club approaching the ball too far outside or too far inside the desired swing plane. This correct path is the key to straight golf shots.

The first foot of the downswing is critical. The hips initiate the forward swing with a subtle lateral and rotary movement. This movement begins the transferring of weight to the front foot. As the hips have turned back to the position they held at the start of the swing the arms have swung down about a foot. The hands remain in front of the right breast. The 90-degree angle between the left arm and the club is maintained and the shaft of the club should point at the ball-target line.

Practice by pumping the arms down two or three times and then continue to the finish position. This drill will train you to initiate the downswing correctly, a major component of a consistent golf swing.

Terry Gingell is now taking registration for summer junior golf camps and summer sports camps and adult group lessons. For more information, call 690-7970.