Slow Swing Motion to Build Fundamentals for Golf Technique Control

For many, the golf swing is not a natural movement. It would be great if all golfers could just stand to the ball and swing back and forward on the right plane and on the correct line, just concentrating on a good rhythm.

But most golfers who have such a simple approach quickly lose control and end up hitting wayward shots. By learning to build up swing technique in slow motion, a golfer has more chance of grooving the basics and hitting good shots.

Swing Through Positions in Slow Motion

After learning how to stand well to the ball, there are positions during a golf swing the club has to pass through.

  • The takeaway halfway back
  • The wrist cock that sets the plane of the swing
  • The top of the backswing position
  • The start of the downswing
  • Impact position
  • Follow through or finish position

Rather like a martial arts expert practicing his punches and kicks, these golf swing movements, which are often referred to as swing fundamentals, can be practiced in slow motion.

How to Locate Swing Positions in Slow in Motion

Following is an explanation of what to be looking for at each stage.

  • The takeaway should be carried out with the body and club working together. After a golfer has turned away from the ball and the club has moved about three feet into the backswing, the butt of the club (grip end) should be pointing at the spine.
  • After the takeaway is complete, the wrists have to hinge the club into the correct position, what is referred to as the swing plane. After the wrists hinge, the butt of the club should be pointing towards the ball.
  • At the top of the backswing, the club shaft should be pointing directly at the target, and the shoulders should have turned, so your back is facing the target.
  • The start of the downswing should be carried out slowly, making sure the shoulders do not spin open. It might feel as though the arms swing down on their own to begin the downswing. The butt of the club should point directly at the ball.
  • At impact, the shoulders should be square and pointing at the target. The blade of the club should be facing the target. Body weight should be on the left foot.
  • At the end of the swing, the right foot must have moved into the classic finish position to ensure the weight has positively transferred onto the left foot.

Build up the Swing in Slow Motion

By all means, try to swing naturally at first, but if you find you are not improving, it is time to start to build up the golf swing fundamentals in slow motion.

This will help the body understand what is expected of it during the swing and will enable the basics to be grooved for more control and better golf shots. Look at some of the photos on this page and try to swing slowly through the same positions.