Clay, I sincerely hope that you read this because this particular video unlocked and clarified an understanding for me of what it actually means to put pressure in the right foot to get a complete shoulder turn. Let me explain please; I've watched nearly all of your videos and hundreds from other instructors whereby you all say put pressure in the heel of your right foot to load during the backswing. So, I've been trying that, putting pressure in the toes, heel, arch of my right foot during the backswing and not seeing any real improvement in that aspect of my swing. In this video you said "imagine that you are using the pressure in your back foot to push the hip backwards, to force the hip to open up" during the backswing. That did it! Now I understand and can actually feel it and do it. I have been a softball coach for 30+ years and many many times players have said, "When you used this choice of words I suddenly found new meaning in what you have said in 20 different ways before. It's nearly 11:00pm, I was literally preparing for bed when I watched this video. I jumped up onto the floor and tried it and I could finally feel what putting pressure into the back foot to load actually meant and feels like. Now I understand and can't wait to wake up tomorrow and head into the backyard to hit into my net. I feel like I have a new purpose and look forward to finally increasing my shoulder turn. I have lower back issues that limit my flexibility however when I just now practiced this with the new found clarity I realized I can do this and get 15- 20 degrees more shoulder turn! Thank you! It just goes to show you how changing up subtle word choices can have new meaning in instruction. Sincerely, Rick Monson - Monroe, Wisconsin
Hi started golfing when I retired 8 years ago ,shooting 110 to 120 if I counted most of the strokes . I have been watching your videos for three years thank you your instructions they are simple common sense and doable , This video is so priceless it’s unbelievable I have been practicing this for 2 months , along with all the the other lessons the iron one is another priceless instruction . Long long story short I struggled to drive 175 yards mostly slicing,now 200 to 220 with a slight fade, 3 wood from toppers to 180+ yds. Irons a nightmare to I can’t wait Sand and putting still a work in progress So I’m now shooting 82 to 90 and really loving this game . Thank you Clay for teaching me how to enjoy this game !
There are a lot of great videos on youtube. It’s a difficult choice to decide to whom to follow. I became a member of Top Speed golf because you’re easy to follow and easy to understand. I’m not perfect on this but I’m turning my hook into a nice baby draw.
Hi Clay, this video really described me perfectly. I've always had a smooth swing but once I hit 60 years old my distance has gone down year after year. At 63 now, at the rate I'm going I'll be hanging it up in another year or two! I've been working on some drills to increase my speed but all it has done is make me rush my swing and my timing is all over the place. Very uncomfortable and inconsistent results. I set up my phone to video what I was doing and saw I was turning my shoulders 45 maybe 50 degrees and my hips barely at all. By working on some stretching exercises and just having the swing thought of pointing my shoulder at the ball at the top of the back swing has effortlessly brought my swing speed up quite a bit. It's still a work in progress but I'm going in the right direction. And this reinforces the need to stay in shape as we get older!! Thanks Clay!!
Sounds like some core and glute exercises could really help you out in your later years, I wish you the best of luck and hope you have many more years of golf ahead of you!
Incredible Lesson. I've been fighting the "right elbow out" during downswing all these years as my right arm/hand was WAY too active. Now as soon as I get this pulling sensation to start the down swing I know the left hip is leading the swing. I start to pure some short irons. This was only the first time out with this and I can't wait to get back to practice.
Another great vid. Clay your instructions make so much sense and seem like you are not forcing the body to do anything unnecessary. Btw- see you are a big boy, but wow, hitting 300+ yard drive so casually...geez!
This is great info, the thought of pulling instead of pushing (coming over the top) is so key for me to have good swing. Clay & Q thanks so much for these videos, they are clear & concise which makes them understandable & useable for all levels of players.
Yea, big back swing and weight transfer, pull through withe lead arm and I could feel that pressure on the three fingers, which meant I was doing it correct. Felt very smooth and powerful. Excellent demonstration!
I truly understand getting your hands arms above shoulders. However if you are limited or have physical limitations, what are you to do? I’ve had rotator cuff surgery and that’s as far as my arms will go. FYI. My shoulders are reaching 80 to 90 degrees on my Backswing
You can only do what you're capable of. It may not be physically possible for you to swing as vertically. It doesn't mean you can't play good golf though. You just may have a harder time getting a lot of speed. Play well! Quentin | TSG Instructor
IM A SHORT SWING GOLFER, 2 HANDICAP. EVERYTHING YOU SAY IS ALL TRUE, BUT MISSING KEY THAT YOU DONT MENTION IS SOFT HAND ON THE TAKEAWAY, MY PRACTICE SWING HAS A GOOD FULL BACK SWING, BUT WHEN ITS TIME TO HIT THE BALL DAMN SHORT SWING COMES BACK..
Focus on getting a full shoulder turn. Let your lead shoulder go under your chin and don't be in a hurry to get to the top of the swing. Hope that helps. Play well! Quentin | TSG Instructor
Hi Clay, another great video. I liked the idea of on the downswing driving pressure through your lead foot, this is something I will work on the next time I am practicing. Your knowledge of the golf game is great, keep these videos coming and I will always watch them.
New to the lag. Topping the ball alot.. think I'm rushing like you said. But this is frustrating cause I'm thinking to much about the lag and not shifting weight.. prolly why im topping it.. I want this swing bad..
Hi Tony, if you don't start sequencing properly then you're almost guaranteed to cast it so I would focus on that weight shift first. Play well! Quentin | TSG Instructor
Shift pressure to the *inside* of the left foot! I’ve never heard that - it’s a very different feel (I’ve usually taken that to mean shift to the OUTSIDE/forefoot). Such a small difference, but much easier for me to keep rotating. Thanks!
Just getting into golf and man your tips and drills have helped so much. I’ve never been around golf. Mainly motocross; sports included just baseball and basketball. This video has me realizing I stay on my back foot which is probably muscle memory from baseball.
I have watched a bunch of your videos and all the instruction has been great. But I’m not sure I agree with this one. Can you give any other tips on how to make this work? When I have a long back swing a generally miss the center of the club face, but when I shorten it up, I become far more consistent!
Hi, I would make sure that you're retaining your spine is remaining stable. If you're leaning toward the target at the top in an effort to get a bigger swing then you'll tend to be inconsistent. Play well! Quentin | TSG Instructor
Thanks very much this is a great video. When starting the downswing is it better to think of the front hip of the back hip as starting the move down or does it matter? I have always played thinking my back hip is the first move of the downswing followed by the upper body but might it better to instead think that the front hip moves and then the upper body follows.
HI, feel is relative so I'm not sure what will work better for you. Typically, it's better to think of the lead hip moving out of the way. Play well! Quentin | TSG Instructor
I think that one of the best ways to stop rushing, in addition to all of your tips, is to look after the feeling of a 'heavy club head' as long as possible in the downswing.
Clay, Simply put, your instructions make sense! I just started putting some of the fundamentals into practice and already, I am experiencing a significant improvement. Thank you very much. Mike K.
I tried this from December last year and took a while to get used to it, I’m now driving the ball averaging 270 metres but with this lockdown it’s gonna be hard to start again lol
I’m not that flexible and can’t get my club parallel to ground on backswing. Should I flare out my rear foot or keep it around 90 degrees to target line. I like the feel of my right foot perpendicular to target line but am I loosing distance?
Comment and a question: First, as far as feel goes, in addition to feeling pressure the lower fingers of my left hand, I also feel the contraction of my left lat and rear delt muscles. Once in the slot, then my core (abdominal) muscles take over. I have a hard time flattening out the swing at the start of the downswing and my right arm takes over, so I've been playing with an abbreviated back swing for consistency. What do you think about having a flat backswing? I recently saw a video on this, forgot which channel. Is that a bad habit, and if so, why? Would it help to try to drive my right elbow ahead of my hip (DJ)? This seems to flatten the swing and generate more power, but it's more difficult to square the club face. What is the best approach for someone trying to break 80? (Recreational golfer wanting to get to an amateur level). Thanks, Tom.
Hi Tom, a flat swing is fine but it can be more difficult to create speed because you're not creating as much space to accelerate the club. I would check out our channel for more shallowing videos and drills. We also have a video on our channel for breaking 80. Just do a search. Play well! Quentin | TSG Instructor
Dadgummit. It's like you've been watching me play golf for the last 10 years and decided to create videos specifically for me. LOL Excellent content - it's helped me a lot. Thank you!
I'm in my mid sixties and can't hit the ball as far as I used to and I have shortened my back swing over the past year or so. Thanks for this tip I will try it next time at the range but that will be a few weeks away. I live in Spain and the country is in lock down for another three weeks so will have to put this on hold thanks Clay.
Hey Clay, thanks for the tips. My problem is that I play baseball and people always comment on my baseball swing. I try to slow it down but not much luck. Also, what brand of hat do you wear and where to get one. Thanks
So I just watched swing short = Hit Long. This video your saying you can’t have a shorter swing. I have a shorter swing so I do I not rush on the back swing?
There are examples on tour where a shorter swing works well, e.g. Rahm and Finau. Those are two big, long guys that can generate a lot of power in a short distance. Most amateurs cannot do this and need a longer swing to generate sufficient power. Play well! Nate | TSG Instructor
Big time speed! He has videos on Instagram of him making a full backswing and swinging mid 130's mph swing speed. His normal speed with a short backswing is mid 120's. He could be a successful long driver with a long backswing. Easily in the 140's.
Left heel goes up to free up the hips. If you're topping it then it's likely that you're hanging back and not transferring your weight to your lead side.
Would a quarterback and baseball player push off their front leg to get more power and distance? Most golfers don't know were the power comes from so they go for longer backswing (more arm speed). If you want to skip a stone far do you push down into your front leg to create power? NO. Witch leg does a boxer get his power from? Most golfers pick up their back foot before impact?
What would cause a pull if one shifts weight / pressure to left then clears out left side? I will have several holes at even par with this method depicted in the video. Then the dreaded double cross will appear. Any thoughts that cause this pull?
Hi Stephen, a pull is caused by and over the top. When you clear you're lead side, you're likely opening your shoulders along with it too much and coming over the top. So, clear that lead side but make sure you are swinging in to out. Play well! Quentin | TSG Instructor
Great video as always Clay. This weekend, I watched "Golf My Way" where Mr. Nicklaus talked a lot about the feet and starting the downswing bottom up, then I watched the final round of the 1986 Masters on RUclips. I focused on the footwork of these all-time greats. I was amazed at how many of them drove the ball over 300 yards with the equipment they had and how effortless most of their swings seemed. What would you say is the biggest difference and the biggest common denominator between the greats of that era and the modern swing? Thanks and keep up the great work.
Thanks! I would say that players now are able to go after it a little more so they have more swing speed. Those guys swung fast too but there are more guys that are swinging much faster now because you can afford to miss the middle of the face a little bit. Play well! Quentin | TSG Instructor
Hi Clay, a light-bulb went on when I saw this video. My upper body was so tight (especially off the tee box) and I would rush the downswing AND cast the club; losing all kinds of power and with poor ball striking. I'm going to re-tool my swing with your ideas here. Questions: 1) What about Tempo? How much tempo are you applying to back-swing vs. the down-swing and 2) What about the right wrist on the back-swing? Some pros seem to have significant cocking of the right wrist while others don't. Can you comment on that? Thanks again!!
Hi Rich, tempo is typically around a 3-1 ratio backswing to downswing. This isn't something you really need to think about though. If you get a full backswing then your tempo will be great because you won't feel the need to rush the downswing and if you get a full backswing, your backswing won't be too quick either. Search "right wrist" on our channel. We have a crazy detail video about it. Play well! Quentin | TSG Instructor
Hi Rick, we offer online lessons as an additional service to our All Access Members. If you're friend is interested then they'll want to become an All Access Member. Just send them the quick link below because they can sign up in about 1 minute: topspeedgolf.com/pick-all-access-plan/
What about John Rahm? Or Tony Finau. They have shirt back swings but rotate their torso and hips really fast to get the torque. And they're both pretty long hitters? Could it not work both was?
Both of those players are tall and strong. They don't need to take as big of backswings to generate tons of clubhead speed like the rest of us minions (although Rahm gets a big shoulder turn without the club getting as far back as most people). You do want acceleration through impact, but most struggle by doing this too early in the downswing and come over-the-top. If you're a big, strong person and can generate massive clubhead speed with a shorter backswing, then go for it! Play well! Nate | TSG Instructor
Y'all are by far the best instructor's I've seen and the Top Speed System has helped me immensely! I'm 6'6, and I have an early extension problem. I get in the slot, get good rotation but it still pops up! Would shortening my backswing help with that? Thanks for the tip if you have time to give me one! Keep up the great work!
No flat wrist at the top on the 122mph swing, because under heavy pulling stress the wrist has a slight cup to it. Check the wrist angle when you hang from a pull up bar. You flattened it at the hip level through impact and hit a tight draw. That shaft looks like XX stiff - barely bends at 122mph. Probably right in your wheelhouse. 8:11
I have always had a big back-swing, maybe too big. I get good results when I separate my hips from my arms. I want my arms to swing freely, synced with the hips, but not locked into them. The problem is this make me FEEL like my swing is right on the edge of being out of control.
Hi Glenn, one thing to understand is that change is likely going to feel well out of your comfort zone. That doesn't mean that it's a bad thing. The more you do it the more comfortable it will become. Play well! Quentin | TSG Instructor
Hi Harold, thanks for the comment. Pulling up is a good feeling to help the club whip through. Clay is a little faster than me but not much. I'm usually 116-118 mph with the driver. Play well! Quentin | TSG Instructor
Top Speed Golf - Clay Ballard Ok, I just purchased the GForce flex 7 iron and pulling up helps with tempo. I know there are many tools, not sure if you guys reviewed that. Def would like to see your swing since your body type fits many golfers.
Hi Chris, there are just some adjustments you can make. I would recommend going to our channel and checking out our recent video on seniors. Play well! Quentin | TSG Instructor
Being smooth is easier if you are relaxed. But more importantly, muscles are not good at stretching. Flexibility is not stretched muscles, it is relaxed muscles. Practicing relaxing your muscles rather than stretching them.
Clay, Over the last year, I have been taking lesson from a PGA professional and one of my biggest mistakes when trying to make a large turn and get that wide swing is that my upper body & head lifts up. Do you have any recommendations for still make a full wide swing and eliminating the upper body lift? FYI - I am an older player, so my flexibility while is good for most people my age, but is still more than likely an issue. Your feedback would be greatly appreciated. Thanks
If you have a steep downswing then you'll typically have a steeper angle of attack but not necessarily. Most people pair with early extension to get the club to shallow out late. This is why it's important to shallow the club in the transition so you can stay in your posture and rotate through impact. Play well! Quentin | TSG Instructor
So I go make my 4y/o breakfast and all on her own. She put this on the tv to watch while eating. Then follows this up by asking the remote for Freddy Couples Golf Swing. Proud Daddy Moments
For those who have seen the “throw the clubhead” videos-like Steve Pratt and his “outthrow” and lots of others that you can find on RUclips under “throw the clubhead-this instruction is just the opposite and I, for one, can’t reconcile the two approaches. Many videos instruct you not to be a “handle puller,’” yet that’s exactly what is being taught here. And if there is some difference between what is being taught and the dreaded handle pulling, is that difference going to be discerned by the average golfer watching this video? If there is, it’s lost on me. But then again, there appears to be a million contradictions in golf instructions, and not just on RUclips.
Just a thought. Instead of saying right side and left side. Say front side and back side. That way whether the viewer is left-handed or right-handed they know what you're talking about without having to think.
@@TopSpeedGolf Okay great. I'm still kind of new to the channel but I noticed that pretty quick since I am left-handed so I figured I'd throw it out. Right now I'm playing like crap🤦🏼♂️, but your videos are definitely helping! Always very detailed, good content!
You may not be able to get as big of a turn as a Tour player but I have found that almost everyone can make a 90 degree turn with some minor adjustments. I would check out our recent video on this. Play well! Quentin | TSG Instructor
Yeah, if you can swing 120 with a shorter swing then by all means. They could swing faster with longer swings. In fact, Finau posted a video on his IG that showed him taking a longer swing and swinging 130+ mph. Play well! Quentin | TSG Instructor
He swings 120+ mph. If you can do that with a short swing then great. He could hit it further with a longer swing though. Play well! Quentin | TSG Instructor
Top Speed Golf - Clay Ballard Sure but for me the question is that with a not very low handicap a long swing use to be less straight than a short swing one. You have more control. True?
Hi, thanks for the feedback. Most people can get a 90 degree turn with some adjustments. Honestly, never works with anyone who is not physically capable. It's either because they are uncomfortable turning their back to the ball or their hips are restricting them which can be remedied with some adjustment. Play well! Quentin | TSG Instructor
Hi Mike. Sorry to hear about the shoulders and hips. A good work around is to flare the feet. This opens your hip sockets and makes it easier to rotate. Best of luck!
No. No!!! If you swing a hammer like that then you'll never swing again. Don't teach timing! Hit the ball toward the hole. You're also teaching a weak front side (you didn't say it as such, but you are), you're asking to be misinterpreted. "Pulling the club through the downswing" is dead wrong. What you feel isnt the same as what you did
Clay, I sincerely hope that you read this because this particular video unlocked and clarified an understanding for me of what it actually means to put pressure in the right foot to get a complete shoulder turn. Let me explain please; I've watched nearly all of your videos and hundreds from other instructors whereby you all say put pressure in the heel of your right foot to load during the backswing. So, I've been trying that, putting pressure in the toes, heel, arch of my right foot during the backswing and not seeing any real improvement in that aspect of my swing. In this video you said "imagine that you are using the pressure in your back foot to push the hip backwards, to force the hip to open up" during the backswing. That did it! Now I understand and can actually feel it and do it. I have been a softball coach for 30+ years and many many times players have said, "When you used this choice of words I suddenly found new meaning in what you have said in 20 different ways before. It's nearly 11:00pm, I was literally preparing for bed when I watched this video. I jumped up onto the floor and tried it and I could finally feel what putting pressure into the back foot to load actually meant and feels like. Now I understand and can't wait to wake up tomorrow and head into the backyard to hit into my net. I feel like I have a new purpose and look forward to finally increasing my shoulder turn. I have lower back issues that limit my flexibility however when I just now practiced this with the new found clarity I realized I can do this and get 15- 20 degrees more shoulder turn! Thank you! It just goes to show you how changing up subtle word choices can have new meaning in instruction. Sincerely, Rick Monson - Monroe, Wisconsin
Thanks for sharing!
Hi started golfing when I retired 8 years ago ,shooting 110 to 120 if I counted most of the strokes .
I have been watching your videos for three years thank you your instructions they are simple common sense and doable , This video is so priceless it’s unbelievable I have been practicing this for 2 months , along with all the the other lessons the iron one is another priceless instruction . Long long story short I struggled to drive 175 yards mostly slicing,now 200 to 220 with a slight fade, 3 wood from toppers to 180+ yds. Irons a nightmare to I can’t wait
Sand and putting still a work in progress So I’m now shooting 82 to 90 and really loving this game .
Thank you Clay for teaching me how to enjoy this game !
There are a lot of great videos on youtube. It’s a difficult choice to decide to whom to follow. I became a member of Top Speed golf because you’re easy to follow and easy to understand. I’m not perfect on this but I’m turning my hook into a nice baby draw.
Nice! Thanks for sharing!
Hi Clay, this video really described me perfectly. I've always had a smooth swing but once I hit 60 years old my distance has gone down year after year. At 63 now, at the rate I'm going I'll be hanging it up in another year or two! I've been working on some drills to increase my speed but all it has done is make me rush my swing and my timing is all over the place. Very uncomfortable and inconsistent results. I set up my phone to video what I was doing and saw I was turning my shoulders 45 maybe 50 degrees and my hips barely at all. By working on some stretching exercises and just having the swing thought of pointing my shoulder at the ball at the top of the back swing has effortlessly brought my swing speed up quite a bit. It's still a work in progress but I'm going in the right direction. And this reinforces the need to stay in shape as we get older!! Thanks Clay!!
Hi, thanks for sharing. Keep up the great work!
Sounds like some core and glute exercises could really help you out in your later years, I wish you the best of luck and hope you have many more years of golf ahead of you!
Incredible Lesson. I've been fighting the "right elbow out" during downswing all these years as my right arm/hand was WAY too active. Now as soon as I get this pulling sensation to start the down swing I know the left hip is leading the swing. I start to pure some short irons. This was only the first time out with this and I can't wait to get back to practice.
Thanks!
Another great vid. Clay your instructions make so much sense and seem like you are not forcing the body to do anything unnecessary. Btw- see you are a big boy, but wow, hitting 300+ yard drive so casually...geez!
Thanks!
Classic Phil Ritson (rip) : « Golf is a pulling motion ». Love the three finger key which also applies to chipping to avoid the skull.
Thanks for sharing!
Great advice
Applied this drill and I was striking the ball like never before. Thanks for great video.
That's great Eric. Thanks for sharing!
This is great info, the thought of pulling instead of pushing (coming over the top) is so key for me to have good swing. Clay & Q thanks so much for these videos, they are clear & concise which makes them understandable & useable for all levels of players.
It's our pleasure. Play well! Quentin | TSG Instructor
Clay: "not gonna do much better than that".
Smashes another few yards past on the next and the next and the next hahah love it!
😂
Just added 10 mph to my club head after watching this with a much easier swing. Thank you
Glad it helped
Yea, big back swing and weight transfer, pull through withe lead arm and I could feel that pressure on the three fingers, which meant I was doing it correct. Felt very smooth and powerful. Excellent demonstration!
Thanks John!
John Rahm does the short takeaway very well.
Yes he does
I truly understand getting your hands arms above shoulders. However if you are limited or have physical limitations, what are you to do? I’ve had rotator cuff surgery and that’s as far as my arms will go.
FYI. My shoulders are reaching 80 to 90 degrees on my Backswing
You can only do what you're capable of. It may not be physically possible for you to swing as vertically. It doesn't mean you can't play good golf though. You just may have a harder time getting a lot of speed. Play well! Quentin | TSG Instructor
This is amazing, your tips are exactly what needs to happen for improvement.
Thanks!
Thank you Clay all your videos are very informative!
Glad you like them!
IM A SHORT SWING GOLFER, 2 HANDICAP. EVERYTHING YOU SAY IS ALL TRUE, BUT MISSING KEY THAT YOU DONT MENTION IS SOFT HAND ON THE TAKEAWAY,
MY PRACTICE SWING HAS A GOOD FULL BACK SWING, BUT WHEN ITS TIME TO HIT THE BALL DAMN SHORT SWING COMES BACK..
Focus on getting a full shoulder turn. Let your lead shoulder go under your chin and don't be in a hurry to get to the top of the swing. Hope that helps. Play well! Quentin | TSG Instructor
I am a lefty that plays right handed. pretty sure this will help with my distance. nice video
Glad it was helpful!
Hi Clay, another great video. I liked the idea of on the downswing driving pressure through your lead foot, this is something I will work on the next time I am practicing. Your knowledge of the golf game is great, keep these videos coming and I will always watch them.
Thanks 👍
New to the lag. Topping the ball alot.. think I'm rushing like you said. But this is frustrating cause I'm thinking to much about the lag and not shifting weight.. prolly why im topping it.. I want this swing bad..
Hi Tony, if you don't start sequencing properly then you're almost guaranteed to cast it so I would focus on that weight shift first. Play well! Quentin | TSG Instructor
This is great instruction, thanks Clay and Cue!
Our pleasure!
Shift pressure to the *inside* of the left foot! I’ve never heard that - it’s a very different feel (I’ve usually taken that to mean shift to the OUTSIDE/forefoot). Such a small difference, but much easier for me to keep rotating. Thanks!
My pleasure!
Just getting into golf and man your tips and drills have helped so much. I’ve never been around golf. Mainly motocross; sports included just baseball and basketball.
This video has me realizing I stay on my back foot which is probably muscle memory from baseball.
Glad to help
:) Thanks for the hard work being us your TSG vids. You've helped me slooww down. thx
No problem!
I have watched a bunch of your videos
and all the instruction has been great. But I’m not sure I agree with this one. Can you give any other tips on how to make this work? When I have a long back swing a generally miss the center of the club face, but when I shorten it up, I become far more consistent!
Just realized I posted on my daughters account, lol!
Hi, I would make sure that you're retaining your spine is remaining stable. If you're leaning toward the target at the top in an effort to get a bigger swing then you'll tend to be inconsistent. Play well! Quentin | TSG Instructor
Great lessons - Many thanks !
My pleasure!
Thanks very much this is a great video. When starting the downswing is it better to think of the front hip of the back hip as starting the move down or does it matter? I have always played thinking my back hip is the first move of the downswing followed by the upper body but might it better to instead think that the front hip moves and then the upper body follows.
HI, feel is relative so I'm not sure what will work better for you. Typically, it's better to think of the lead hip moving out of the way. Play well! Quentin | TSG Instructor
Clay, this is one of your best videos! Any tips or videos for keeping the head from moving forward and past the Rt hip on the downswing?
Thanks!
Hi Scott, we have many videos on this on our channel. Just do a quick search and you'll find some. Play well! Quentin | TSG Instructor
Great video Clay. Something to work on in the summer as I try to improve my driver on my channel documenting my golf progress.
Thanks!
I think that one of the best ways to stop rushing, in addition to all of your tips, is to look after the feeling of a 'heavy club head' as long as possible in the downswing.
Thanks for sharing!
Clay,
Simply put, your instructions make sense! I just started putting some of the fundamentals into practice and already, I am experiencing a significant improvement. Thank you very much.
Mike K.
Fantastic! Thanks Mike!
Awesome video!
Would you consider Tony Finau's back swing too short? Iv'e always been amazed at how much power he gets in his swing.
Yeah, he has a shorter swing than most but he can swing 120 + mph. He can swing faster with a longer swing. Play well! Quentin | TSG Instructor
@@TopSpeedGolf wow... that's crazy to think about. Why do you think he chooses the shorter swing?
I tried this from December last year and took a while to get used to it, I’m now driving the ball averaging 270 metres but with this lockdown it’s gonna be hard to start again lol
Hi, thanks for sharing. That's great! I hope this will be over soon. Play well! Quentin | TSG Instructor
Top Speed Golf - Clay Ballard how to keep arms from bending in golf swing
I’m not that flexible and can’t get my club parallel to ground on backswing. Should I flare out my rear foot or keep it around 90 degrees to target line. I like the feel of my right foot perpendicular to target line but am I loosing distance?
Flare it out to free up the hips
Comment and a question:
First, as far as feel goes, in addition to feeling pressure the lower fingers of my left hand, I also feel the contraction of my left lat and rear delt muscles. Once in the slot, then my core (abdominal) muscles take over.
I have a hard time flattening out the swing at the start of the downswing and my right arm takes over, so I've been playing with an abbreviated back swing for consistency. What do you think about having a flat backswing? I recently saw a video on this, forgot which channel. Is that a bad habit, and if so, why? Would it help to try to drive my right elbow ahead of my hip (DJ)? This seems to flatten the swing and generate more power, but it's more difficult to square the club face. What is the best approach for someone trying to break 80? (Recreational golfer wanting to get to an amateur level). Thanks, Tom.
Hi Tom, a flat swing is fine but it can be more difficult to create speed because you're not creating as much space to accelerate the club. I would check out our channel for more shallowing videos and drills. We also have a video on our channel for breaking 80. Just do a search. Play well! Quentin | TSG Instructor
Dadgummit. It's like you've been watching me play golf for the last 10 years and decided to create videos specifically for me. LOL Excellent content - it's helped me a lot. Thank you!
Good stuff
I'm in my mid sixties and can't hit the ball as far as I used to and I have shortened my back swing over the past year or so. Thanks for this tip I will try it next time at the range but that will be a few weeks away. I live in Spain and the country is in lock down for another three weeks so will have to put this on hold thanks Clay.
Best of luck!
Hey Clay, thanks for the tips. My problem is that I play baseball and people always comment on my baseball swing. I try to slow it down but not much luck. Also, what brand of hat do you wear and where to get one. Thanks
It's a Nike sun hat. I got it on Amazon.
Man, I have learned so much from this gentleman. Thanks Clay
Glad to help
So I just watched swing short = Hit Long. This video your saying you can’t have a shorter swing. I have a shorter swing so I do I not rush on the back swing?
There are examples on tour where a shorter swing works well, e.g. Rahm and Finau. Those are two big, long guys that can generate a lot of power in a short distance. Most amateurs cannot do this and need a longer swing to generate sufficient power. Play well! Nate | TSG Instructor
How do you explain Tony Finau's short back swing?
Thanks
Sef
Big time speed! He has videos on Instagram of him making a full backswing and swinging mid 130's mph swing speed. His normal speed with a short backswing is mid 120's. He could be a successful long driver with a long backswing. Easily in the 140's.
but why is your left heel going up.i have observed topping the ball in these cases...please advise.
Left heel goes up to free up the hips. If you're topping it then it's likely that you're hanging back and not transferring your weight to your lead side.
Can we use this downswing drill with other clubs as well or does this only apply to a driver?
All clubs
Would a quarterback and baseball player push off their front leg to get more power and distance? Most golfers don't know were the power comes from so they go for longer backswing (more arm speed). If you want to skip a stone far do you push down into your front leg to create power? NO. Witch leg does a boxer get his power from? Most golfers pick up their back foot before impact?
What would cause a pull if one shifts weight / pressure to left then clears out left side? I will have several holes at even par with this method depicted in the video. Then the dreaded double cross will appear. Any thoughts that cause this pull?
Hi Stephen, a pull is caused by and over the top. When you clear you're lead side, you're likely opening your shoulders along with it too much and coming over the top. So, clear that lead side but make sure you are swinging in to out. Play well! Quentin | TSG Instructor
Top Speed Golf - Clay Ballard Thank you for the reply. Great channel!
Great video as always Clay. This weekend, I watched "Golf My Way" where Mr. Nicklaus talked a lot about the feet and starting the downswing bottom up, then I watched the final round of the 1986 Masters on RUclips. I focused on the footwork of these all-time greats. I was amazed at how many of them drove the ball over 300 yards with the equipment they had and how effortless most of their swings seemed. What would you say is the biggest difference and the biggest common denominator between the greats of that era and the modern swing? Thanks and keep up the great work.
Thanks! I would say that players now are able to go after it a little more so they have more swing speed. Those guys swung fast too but there are more guys that are swinging much faster now because you can afford to miss the middle of the face a little bit. Play well! Quentin | TSG Instructor
Sam Snead
nice beard Clay and love the video thats exactly what i have been practicing is the pulling motion and is working also with chipping as well
My pleasure!
Hi Clay, a light-bulb went on when I saw this video. My upper body was so tight (especially off the tee box) and I would rush the downswing AND cast the club; losing all kinds of power and with poor ball striking. I'm going to re-tool my swing with your ideas here. Questions: 1) What about Tempo? How much tempo are you applying to back-swing vs. the down-swing and 2) What about the right wrist on the back-swing? Some pros seem to have significant cocking of the right wrist while others don't. Can you comment on that? Thanks again!!
Hi Rich, tempo is typically around a 3-1 ratio backswing to downswing. This isn't something you really need to think about though. If you get a full backswing then your tempo will be great because you won't feel the need to rush the downswing and if you get a full backswing, your backswing won't be too quick either. Search "right wrist" on our channel. We have a crazy detail video about it. Play well! Quentin | TSG Instructor
Hi Clay. Can you please get hold of me regarding an online lesson for one of my friends?
Hi Rick, we offer online lessons as an additional service to our All Access Members. If you're friend is interested then they'll want to become an All Access Member. Just send them the quick link below because they can sign up in about 1 minute: topspeedgolf.com/pick-all-access-plan/
Good tip. That was a helpful swing thought.
Glad it was helpful!
Thanks
My pleasure!
What about John Rahm? Or Tony Finau. They have shirt back swings but rotate their torso and hips really fast to get the torque. And they're both pretty long hitters? Could it not work both was?
Both of those players are tall and strong. They don't need to take as big of backswings to generate tons of clubhead speed like the rest of us minions (although Rahm gets a big shoulder turn without the club getting as far back as most people). You do want acceleration through impact, but most struggle by doing this too early in the downswing and come over-the-top. If you're a big, strong person and can generate massive clubhead speed with a shorter backswing, then go for it! Play well! Nate | TSG Instructor
Y'all are by far the best instructor's I've seen and the Top Speed System has helped me immensely! I'm 6'6, and I have an early extension problem. I get in the slot, get good rotation but it still pops up! Would shortening my backswing help with that? Thanks for the tip if you have time to give me one! Keep up the great work!
No flat wrist at the top on the 122mph swing, because under heavy pulling stress the wrist has a slight cup to it. Check the wrist angle when you hang from a pull up bar. You flattened it at the hip level through impact and hit a tight draw. That shaft looks like XX stiff - barely bends at 122mph. Probably right in your wheelhouse. 8:11
Thanks for sharing! The shaft is an X-stiff. Play well! Quentin | TSG Instructor
Thanks for a cool video. Can you rotate your hips too far on the takeaway?
Hi, you could. I would say most people can go as much as 60 degrees. The Tour average is about 50. Play well! Quentin | TSG Instructor
Clay , can I please schedule a lesson with you please?
It's all about technique and being loose no matter how far back you swing. I have a short backswing and hit a 7 150 yards, on track for an amateur
Thanks for sharing!
I have always had a big back-swing, maybe too big. I get good results when I separate my hips from my arms. I want my arms to swing freely, synced with the hips, but not locked into them. The problem is this make me FEEL like my swing is right on the edge of being out of control.
Hi Glenn, one thing to understand is that change is likely going to feel well out of your comfort zone. That doesn't mean that it's a bad thing. The more you do it the more comfortable it will become. Play well! Quentin | TSG Instructor
HITTING BOMBS
💣💣😂
Would this also apply to iron play?
Yes
ass
I heard pulling through slows the club down, pull up should be the thought right? Plus Clay has a natural fast swing, let Q demo it or a student.
Hi Harold, thanks for the comment. Pulling up is a good feeling to help the club whip through. Clay is a little faster than me but not much. I'm usually 116-118 mph with the driver. Play well! Quentin | TSG Instructor
Top Speed Golf - Clay Ballard Ok, I just purchased the GForce flex 7 iron and pulling up helps with tempo. I know there are many tools, not sure if you guys reviewed that. Def would like to see your swing since your body type fits many golfers.
Tony Finau comes to mind, but he is tall. Maybe his height provides the leverage.
I understand the point you're making, but what if you're a senior golfer and don't have your flexibility??
Hi Chris, there are just some adjustments you can make. I would recommend going to our channel and checking out our recent video on seniors. Play well! Quentin | TSG Instructor
Being smooth is easier if you are relaxed. But more importantly, muscles are not good at stretching. Flexibility is not stretched muscles, it is relaxed muscles. Practicing relaxing your muscles rather than stretching them.
Clay,
Over the last year, I have been taking lesson from a PGA professional and one of my biggest mistakes when trying to make a large turn and get that wide swing is that my upper body & head lifts up. Do you have any recommendations for still make a full wide swing and eliminating the upper body lift? FYI - I am an older player, so my flexibility while is good for most people my age, but is still more than likely an issue. Your feedback would be greatly appreciated. Thanks
Hi Steven, I would try to turn your lead shoulder down in the backswing. Play well! Quentin | TSG Instructor
if you pull through on your downswing, but you have a much steeper downswing naturally, wouldnt It result in lots of mishits, duffs and slices?
Let me rephrase: would pulling through the downswing possibly create a steeper angle of attack?
If you have a steep downswing then you'll typically have a steeper angle of attack but not necessarily. Most people pair with early extension to get the club to shallow out late. This is why it's important to shallow the club in the transition so you can stay in your posture and rotate through impact. Play well! Quentin | TSG Instructor
Beautiful !!!
Thanks!
Liking the beard Clay!
Thanks!
what is your driver setup? head, grip, shaft
9 out of 10 of would give our left arm to hit 285 yd drives
😂
So I go make my 4y/o breakfast and all on her own. She put this on the tv to watch while eating.
Then follows this up by asking the remote for Freddy Couples Golf Swing.
Proud Daddy Moments
You can't promise me 317, Clay? What good are you?! JK
😂
Works for Rahm......
It does. If you can swing 120 mph with your driver then you can have a short backswing. 😄 Play well! Quentin | TSG Instructor
Like the hat. Where to buy?
Thanks! Amazon
Grip and blocking it out to the right ? How to not do that ...
You're most likely swinging too much from the inside. Try to rotate more to get your path more on plane. Play well!
No video for jon rahm...
Works for him :-)
For those who have seen the “throw the clubhead” videos-like Steve Pratt and his “outthrow” and lots of others that you can find on RUclips under “throw the clubhead-this instruction is just the opposite and I, for one, can’t reconcile the two approaches. Many videos instruct you not to be a “handle puller,’” yet that’s exactly what is being taught here. And if there is some difference between what is being taught and the dreaded handle pulling, is that difference going to be discerned by the average golfer watching this video? If there is, it’s lost on me. But then again, there appears to be a million contradictions in golf instructions, and not just on RUclips.
Just a thought. Instead of saying right side and left side. Say front side and back side. That way whether the viewer is left-handed or right-handed they know what you're talking about without having to think.
Thanks for the feedback. We do try to do that but we aren't perfect. Hope you're playing great!
@@TopSpeedGolf Okay great. I'm still kind of new to the channel but I noticed that pretty quick since I am left-handed so I figured I'd throw it out. Right now I'm playing like crap🤦🏼♂️, but your videos are definitely helping! Always very detailed, good content!
I like to let the arms and clubs feel like they’re floating for a split second while simultaneously opening up my hips
Thanks for sharing!
Yes good thought. I feel like I let gravity drop the club straight down for a split second. Keeps club inside and helps sync it all up.
What about us older folks who can’t make that huge turn?
You may not be able to get as big of a turn as a Tour player but I have found that almost everyone can make a 90 degree turn with some minor adjustments. I would check out our recent video on this. Play well! Quentin | TSG Instructor
Finau and Rahm can get away with it lol
Yeah, if you can swing 120 with a shorter swing then by all means. They could swing faster with longer swings. In fact, Finau posted a video on his IG that showed him taking a longer swing and swinging 130+ mph. Play well! Quentin | TSG Instructor
So... what about Jon Rahm swing.... he use first option... ?
He swings 120+ mph. If you can do that with a short swing then great. He could hit it further with a longer swing though. Play well! Quentin | TSG Instructor
Top Speed Golf - Clay Ballard Sure but for me the question is that with a not very low handicap a long swing use to be less straight than a short swing one. You have more control. True?
Lots of people getting carried away from watching Tony Finau and John Rahm.
The thing is, if you play well with a short quick swing, you should stick with a short quick swing. There is no "one swing" in golf.
Yeah, they swing 120+ mph. If you can do that and swing 120+ mph then this doesn't really apply to you. 😀 Play well! Quentin | TSG Instructor
Sandy Lyle, Tony Finau and Jon Rahm may disagree
If you can swing 120 mph with a short swing then by all means 😀
I like all your videos, but this one you have to understand that not everyone is that flexible.
Hi, thanks for the feedback. Most people can get a 90 degree turn with some adjustments. Honestly, never works with anyone who is not physically capable. It's either because they are uncomfortable turning their back to the ball or their hips are restricting them which can be remedied with some adjustment. Play well! Quentin | TSG Instructor
Why dont you just explain how you need to have left side tilt in the back swing?
1:31 is my 100% effort
Thanks for sharing!
Sounds like I am screwed..I am 55 years old with bad shoulders and hips. My range of motion is not anywhere near what yours is.
Hi Mike. Sorry to hear about the shoulders and hips. A good work around is to flare the feet. This opens your hip sockets and makes it easier to rotate. Best of luck!
@@TopSpeedGolf Thanks!
John rahm
John Rahm swings 120 mph with a shorter swing. 99.99% of people can't do that. He would considered an outlier. Play well! Quentin | TSG Instructor
This is me... I rush..
Thanks for sharing!
Sorry...maybe it's me, but I didn't see anything in this video to help me stop rushing my downswing
The main thing is getting a full shoulder turn. Play well! Quentin | TSG Instructor
He seems not to need a long backswing
It sure helps to hit it further.
Yeah, I think a lot of us would "settle" for 285
r46
Moe Norman would disagree
Thanks for sharing!
Q .... like in 007
Never pull
Thanks for sharing!
Mrbeast?
??
@@TopSpeedGolf hey top speed golf! Search for youtube channel MrBeast you looked like him on this video have a nice day!
H
No. No!!! If you swing a hammer like that then you'll never swing again. Don't teach timing! Hit the ball toward the hole.
You're also teaching a weak front side (you didn't say it as such, but you are), you're asking to be misinterpreted.
"Pulling the club through the downswing" is dead wrong. What you feel isnt the same as what you did
Thanks for sharing!
A lot of talk and bragging but no instruction