Flip vs. Release in Golf

What is the difference between a proper golf club release and a flip in the golf swing? To ...

How to Get Perfect Shaft Lean at Impact

You want to hit those boring, hissing shots that scream off the face like a rocket? This g ...

Golf Impact Position Face On

After all your hard work on the backswing, it's time for the big payoff! Getting into the ...

Golf Impact Position Down the Line

As I discussed in the video on Impact Alignments Face On, impact is everything in RST. All ...

Cure Chicken Wing in the Golf Swing

You now have a 3-step drill to help you cure your chicken wing golf swing once and for all ...

Left Elbow Position at Impact

Find out a simple trick to hit straighter shots while also virtually eliminating your chan ...

3 Steps to better impact position in golf

Golf is a sport that can leave you frustrated round after round, but WHY? What exactly are ...

Day 1: Impact Control

Controlling impact is EVERYTHING in the golf swing and we're going to show you how to do i ...

Golf Impact - Part 2 of 7

In part 2 of this new 7 part video series, I'll discuss one of the most important parts th ...

Perfect your golf impact - 1 of 4

Compressing the golf ball like a tour pro can be very hard to do. In this new video series ...

Perfect your golf impact - 2 of 4

Effortless power in the golf swing is a difficult concept for many amateur golfers. In vid ...

Perfect your golf impact - 3 of 4

Learn how to add more speed to your golf swing by leveraging the ground like a tour pro.

Perfect your golf impact - 4 of 4

Lag in the golf swing is key for clubhead speed. In this video, I'll show you how to add m ...

Perfecting your golf impact - Bonus

Perfecting your golf impact video series. Special bonus video that will help you correct s ...

Overview of the Push Release

An overview to the push release for those who want to use the right side to help power the ...

Fix Your Swing Sway w/ the Wall Drill

Fix your golf swing sway with this awesome and simple drill! Swaying off the ball in the b ...

Intro to Weight Shift in the Golf Swing

Weight shift in the golf swing is the FIRST thing you must master before worrying about an ...

Weight Shift in the Golf Swing - Pt. 1

Using our Science and Motion (SAM) Balance Lab, we can pin point weight shift and weight d ...

Weight Shift Part 2 - Right Hip Line

In this second video on understanding weight shift in the golf swing, I discuss specifical ...

Weight Shift Part 3 - To the Left

The culmination in the three part series on correct weight shift in the golf swing gets us ...

Step 1 - Weight Shift

Step 1 of the RST 5 Step System - Mastering Weight Shift

Step 1 - Weight Shift - Drill Only

Step 1 - Weight shift drills

Weight Shift Sweep Drills

The best golf swing drill for weight shift right before you play or when you're just on th ...

5 Minute Golf Setup w/ Weight Shift

Once you've mastered the setup, you can add weight shift to your program to begin developi ...

Fixing Your Weight Transfer in the Golf Swing

In this video, I will show you 2 of the most common faults in downswing transition by not ...

Learn Perfect Weight Shift in Your Socks

Struggling with your weight shift? I'm going to show you how to diagnose your mistakes by ...

How Attack Angle Affects Compression

Ever notice how the PGA Tour pros take razor thin divots? That's exactly what you want. Th ...

Taking a Divot in Front of the Ball

Taking a proper divot is something that is critical to crisp and consistent iron play, but ...

Angle of Attack

Taking deep divots? Are you supposed to? What do the pros do? This video tells you how ste ...

Swing Faults When Your Stance is Too Wide

One of the most common problems with the setup, here's what happens when your stance is to ...

Fix Your Release - Trail Shoulder Back

This golf instruction video is for those who struggle to stop spinning their shoulders ope ...

Moving the Fulcrum & Hitting Shots off the Toe

It's one of my most important golf instruction videos ever, this will completely transform ...

How to Cure the Shanks in 3 Steps

The golf shank is the ugliest, nastiest, rottenest, and most frightening shot in golf. If ...

Getting Stuck on the Downswing

Tiger Woods used to always complain about getting "stuck" in the downswing; a position tha ...

Blocked Golf Shots | Fwd Shaft Lean

If you want to compress the ball for explosive distance, then you need to be working on st ...

How to Fix the Two Way Miss in Golf

Struggle with the dreaded two-way miss in golf? One shot goes right and the next goes left ...

2 Finger Release Drill

This awesome drill forces you to release the golf club like a tour pro! You're going to lo ...

Stop Coming Over the Top in the Golf Swing and Slicing

You're well aware that slicing destroys your distance and your scorecard. What you may not ...

Stop Slicing and Start Releasing the Golf Club

In this video, I’ll show you how to release your club to stop slicing and get better com ...

Square the Clubface Early

Learning how to properly square the club face at impact is something that most amateur gol ...

Hitting a Fade

Learning how to hit a fade is all about learning to control the release of the golf club. ...

How to Stop Hooking the Golf Ball

How to stop hooking the golf ball once and for all! If you struggle with hitting hook shot ...

Hitting a Draw

Once you've mastered the RST swing method, you realize that, due to the simplicity of the ...

How to Hit the 3 Yard Draw

Learn how to hit the delicate little three yard draw and why you're struggling with gettin ...

Cure Reverse Pivot w/ the Necktie Drill

Axis tilt is a necessary fundamental of the golf swing that many golfers ignore or fail to ...

How to Fix Golf Reverse Pivot

A reverse pivot golf swing can cause a whole lot of bad shots, from hitting it thin to hit ...

Fix Your Swing Sway w/ the Wall Drill

Fix your golf swing sway with this awesome and simple drill! Swaying off the ball in the b ...

Fix Reverse Pivot - Trail Side Dominant Setup

This golf setup check is critical to getting rid of a reverse pivot and over the top downs ...

5 Minutes to Master Rotation

This video holds the 5 step pathway to mastering rotation in the golf swing. At the end of ...

Keep the Right Arm Straight to Turn

One of the most common faults that destroys a powerful turn in the golf swing is how the r ...

How to Fix a Flat Shoulder Turn

Fix a flat shoulder turn in your golf backswing with this simple and easy to do drill.

Simple Fix to Make a Full Shoulder Turn

Struggle with making a full turn, even though your fit and flexible? Lacking the distance ...

Using the Core

Using a side by side face on view of Tiger Woods with a driver and a recent swing of mine ...

The Bucket Drill - Golf Shoulder Turn

The Bucket Drill is one that provides a very simple and clear picture on how to rotate cor ...

Intro to Core Rotation in Golf Swing

The rotating core is the "engine" of the golf swing and the primary mover of the entire sw ...

Step 2 - Core Rotation

Step 2- Adding body rotation

Step 2 - Core Rotation - Drill Only

The drill only for Step 2 - Body Rotation

Clamshell Drill - How to Cure Early Extension

The Clamshell Drill is the key to the golf swing, no seriously! If you want to see how the ...

Eliminate Early Extension in Golf Swing

The REAL causes of early extension in the golf swing and the only TRUE way to fix it.

Closed Hip Slide

A closed hip slide is detrimental to your golf swing when learning how to shift your weigh ...

Live Lesson - How to Stop Losing Tush Line & Boost Consistency

Struggling with a 2 way miss and lack of consistency? Watch this Live Lesson to learn a si ...

Losing the Tush Line

One of the most common questions I get regularly is how to stop losing the tush line, or s ...

Squat to Square in the Golf Downswing

If you watch golf on TV, it seems that you can't turn your hips fast enough or far enough ...

Squeeze the Cheeks for Consistency

The glute muscles (your butt cheeks) are some of the most important muscles in the golf sw ...

Role of the Right Foot in Downswing

Footwork is a bit of a misnomer in the golf swing but you hear it every week on TV. What i ...

Fix Your Over the Top Swing by Fixing Your Hand Path

Learn how to fix your over the top golf swing by simply being able to read a clock. If you ...

Stop Coming Over the Top in the Golf Swing and Slicing

You're well aware that slicing destroys your distance and your scorecard. What you may not ...

How to Shallow the Golf Club

Do you swing over the top and struggle to drop the club "into the slot"? Want that look of ...

How to Shallow Your Golf Swing Fast and Easy - Live Lesson

Do you struggle with shallowing the club in the downswing and keep hitting a pull cut or e ...

How to Shallow Your Hands During Transition

Do your hands go straight out toward the golf ball and don't shallow out during the transi ...

Over the Top Stick Drill

Are you tired of yelling “Fore!” when you hit big, nasty slices off the tee? If so, he ...

Drill to Learn Inside Path to Golf Ball

Tired of the over the top slice? This drill and training aid will teach you how to approac ...

How to Fix Your Over the Top Move - Live Lesson

Do you have a steep, over the top golf swing? No matter what you try and do, you can't sto ...

9 to 3 Lag Building Drills

Learn how to build lag in your golf swing with these 9 to 3 lag building drills. You'll le ...

AXIOM Lag in the Golf Swing

Producing incredible lag has never been this easy - or fast

Increase Lag - Impact Cube Drill

This awesome drill will teach you to not cast the club and maintain lag into impact.

Speed vs. Power in the Golf Swing

Speed vs. Power - Which is it that you want in the golf swing? Many golfers think they nee ...

Reshaping Your Golf Swing for Lag

It's no secret that you want more lag in your swing. In this incredible video, I give you ...

RST Student Success - Building More Lag

RST student uses a simple 3 step process to shallow his golf swing and build in a ton of l ...

Intro to Fix Losing Lag and Weak Release

Find out how to work through this section on how to cure your golf casting / loss of lag o ...

Sklz Gold Flex Lag Trainer

This KILLER training aid will help you master a smooth, one-piece takeaway and help you bu ...

Rickie Fowler - How to preserve Lag

Lag is the most efficient way to increase clubhead speed. In this video, RST Instructor Ch ...

Lag and Speed Drills

To get more distance in golf, you've got to get maximum speed from your arms and not let y ...

Key to Creating Lag

The secret key to creating lag has been an elusive thing for most amateur golfers. In this ...

Downcock Pump Lag Drill

Every golfer wants to know how to create more lag in their swing to hit the ball further. ...

Golf Grip's Effect on Lag

As you've no doubt seen, my golf students have been picking up some serious distance throu ...

Become a Golf Swing Lag Monster: Shocking Success Story

In this video, I’ll show you how RST student David became a "lag monster" with RST swing ...

4 Step Golf Swing Lag Builder

The 4 steps to building INSANE lag in your golf swing - and you can do it TODAY!

Golf Left Thumb: Fix Pain, Soreness, Casting

Casting the club in the downswing is a sure way to destroy club head speed. Check out this ...

Right Arm in Downswing: Stop Casting

In this video, you’ll find out: 1) How Tiger Woods builds lag for power, 2) What to feel ...

Sequencing the Downswing - Dump Truck and Drag Racer

Sequencing the downswing is the HARDEST overall part of the golf swing - and also the MOST ...

The Post Up Move - How to Use Lead Leg for Power and Maintain Posture

Have you ever wondered how the pros use their legs for power in the golf swing? This video ...

My Golf Power Secret

How do the pros hit the ball so darn far? I tell all inside with this power secret!

Using your wrists for speed in golf swing - 5 of 7

Your body uses tension as its primary mechanism to sequence the golf swing. In general, th ...

Vertical Ground Force and Double Peaks

Should you be trying to increase vertical ground force in your swing and if so, how should ...

Throw the Club Head at the Golf Ball

Unlock the leverage, speed and power of your golf swing by understanding the physics behin ...

Throw for More Natural Golf Swing

Do you want a more natural golf swing with much more speed? Then you need to focus on how ...

Using the Wrists in the Golf Swing

The wrists play a very dynamic role in your golf swing. In this video, I'll cover the term ...

The Tour Pro Downswing Sequence Drill

If you are looking for a golf swing drill that can INSTANTLY improve your ball striking po ...

Trail Arm Release - Throw the Ball Drill Pt 1

This is THE key drill for really understanding how the downswing sequencing works. This 20 ...

Trail Arm Release - Throw the Ball Drill Pt 2

Are you ready to maximize your club head speed at impact? If so, you need this missing pie ...

Tim Burke - Kinetic Chain

Tim Burke wins his 2nd World Long Drive Championship. In this video, I'll show you the key ...

Golf Takeaway | Overview

An overview of the RST takeaway by RST Founder, Chuck Quinton. This video walks you throug ...

AXIOM Refine Your Takeaway

Simplify your takeaway with a simple 2" movement that moves the club 6 feet!

Learn a Perfect Golf Takeaway with Just a 2 Inch Movement!

Learn the simplest golf takeaway humanly possible for a massive boost in consistency. Simp ...

Fix Inside Takeaway - 4 Square Drill

You probably overuse your hands during the first half of the backswing, like most golfers, ...

Understanding Shoulder Blade Glide

If you have questions about exactly what the shoulder blade glide is or what it should fee ...

Golf Takeaway, 5 Minutes to the Perfect Golf Takeaway

This 30 minute long golf instruction video is key to setting you on the right path for the ...

Right Wrist in the Takeaway

The role of right wrist in the takeaway is often misunderstood and has been the source of ...

Fix Inside Takeaway - Pushing with the Lead Side

An extremely common swing fault, so common that many golf instructors actually teach the s ...

Role of the Right Arm - Takeaway

Collapsing the right arm early is something that at least 90% of amateur golfers struggle ...

Pull for a perfect takeaway - 6 of 7

So many golfers try to perfect the takeaway in the swing and they constantly fight an uphi ...

Thorbjorn Olesen - Perfect your takeaway

See 2 key moves that Thorbjorn Olesen uses to build a picture perfect takeaway position ev ...

One Simple Key to Fix Your Takeaway

In this video, I’ll show you the one swing change that’ll fix your takeaway once and f ...

Posture's Effect on the Takeaway

Posture at address is something that Tiger Woods always does right and it's something that ...

How to Fix an Inside Takeaway

This one simple trick will fix an inside takeaway instantly, I guarantee it!

Fix Inside Takeaway - Shake Hands Drill

This is the best golf swing drill to teach you exactly how your hands should work during t ...

Golf Swing Takeaway & Drills

The golf takeaway has been described by golf instructors countless ways, so many ways that ...

Fix Inside Takeaway - Belly Button Drill

This simple takeaway drill will give you that one piece takeaway you've been looking for o ...

Fix Inside Takeaway - Forward Press

If you've ever wondered whether or not you should have a forward press at setup, this golf ...

Wrist Cock vs. Wrist Hinge in the Golf Swing

Do you know the difference between wrist cock and wrist hinge in the golf swing? The diffe ...

AXIOM Body Backswing

Eliminate your reverse pivot, handsy inside takeaway, your head swaying off the ball and y ...

AXIOM Refine Your Backswing

Dial in your arms during the backswing to start easily shaping the ball, changing trajecto ...

Body Rotation in Golf Backswing - Chair Drill

If you want to power up your swing in golf, body rotation in the backswing is crucial. Unf ...

Left Shoulder Push in Backswing

This "Left Shoulder Push in the Backswing" video is for you ONLY if you already pull perfe ...

5 Minutes to the Perfect Golf Backswing

Once you've mastered the takeaway using our "5 Minutes to the Perfect Takeaway" video, you ...

My Golf Backswing Secrets

My keys to success for a perfect golf backswing - how to make the backswing simple and rep ...

How Much Shoulder Elevation

It's time to help you decide how to power your golf swing. And it all starts with how you ...

Right Elbow Pit in Golf Backswing

Do you struggle, like most golfers, with a flying right elbow at the top of the backswing? ...

Understanding Arm Elevation

In this video, Ill show you what arm elevation is, why you need it, and exactly how much y ...

Live Lesson - How to Fix Your Arms by Fixing Your Legs in the Backswing

Do you struggle with your arms getting too deep or too disconnected during the backswing? ...

Right Arm Backswing Drill

This is an excellent drill to train your mind to use your torso rotation to move the club ...

Should You Restrict Your Hip Turn in the Backswing?

For years, you've been taught to restrict the hips in the backswing. Is that what's best f ...

Simplify Your Backswing with Shallow Arms

Make this one simple change to reduce tension in your backswing to start hitting more EFFO ...

RotaryConnect Backswing Training Aid

Learn how to use the RotaryConnect to assist you in building the perfect golf backswing.

Stop Overswinging | Get Your Backswing Under Control

A powerful, compact backswing is essential for creating good contact with the ball. If ...

Fix Hip Overturning in Your Backswing

If you're letting your hips over rotate in the backswing, you're costing yourself a ton of ...

Torso, Hips Over Rotating in Backswing

How much shoulder turn is too much and how much is not enough? Depends on how it's measure ...

DEAD Drill Step 1 - The Backswing

Here's the first step in building your perfect golf swing using the DEAD Drill. It's criti ...

Golf Backswing, Completing the Golf Backswing

Once you've mastered the setup, weight transfer and takeaway, it's time to progress to the ...

Winter Golf Training Program - Backswing

Snow on the ground? Too cold out? No problem! NOW is the BEST time to work on your golf sw ...

Upper vs. Lower Body Rotation in Backswing

Confused about how your upper body rotates in the backswing compared to your lower body? T ...

How to Keep Your Left Arm Straight in the Backswing

The secret to why you can't keep your left arm straight at the top of the golf backswing.

How to Avoid a Cupped Left Wrist at the Top

Learn the cause of a cupped left wrist at the top of your golf backswing and how to fix it ...

How to Fix Trail Leg Straightening in Backswing

Is your trail leg straightening in the backswing? Do you know what kind of issues this sim ...

Do You Start Backswing w/ Hips or Shoulders?

To start the golf swing with the upper or lower body, that is the question! I think Shakes ...

Checkpoints - 5 Minutes Backswing

If you who have already watched the complete 5 Minutes to the Perfect Backswing video, thi ...

5 Minutes to a Perfect Backswing Pitfalls

In this premium video, I am going to cover some of the common mistakes that RST students m ...

3 Functions of Right Arm in Backswing

In this video, I'll show you the 3 functions of the right arm in creating the perfect back ...

Henrik Stenson's Backswing Moves

See how Henrik Stenson's idiosyncrasies work in his powerful golf swing. Check out these ...

Jason Day - Perfect Backswing

Swing plane is a very common term used in golf and has become a primary focus point for a ...

How to Fix Swing Plane & Path

If you want to truly, once and for all, fix your golf swing plane and path, you must heed ...

Creating a Swing Plane

So many golfers struggle with their ball striking because they misunderstand the concept B ...

Fix Swing Plane - Lead Arm Two Club Drill

Here's a simple golf swing plane drill to get your swing back on track fast with a trainin ...

How Knee Flex Determines Swing Plane

Do you struggle with swinging too far from the inside? Part of the problem could actually ...

Trace the Plane Line

Do you tend to get "stuck" in the downswing? Do you hit blocks and quick hooks? Do you wan ...

Golf Grip's Effect on Swing Plane

Having a proper grip is crucial for club face control and lag in the golf swing. In this v ...

Stop Coming Under the Plane in Golf

Coming into impact under plane kills your consistency, often resulting in blocked shots, t ...

AXIOM Body Tour Impact

Learn the secret of how the pros are so consistent with this tour impact position.

AXIOM Body Downswing

Learn how to cure your flip, stop hitting fat and thin shots and how to get into the perfe ...

AXIOM Release Left vs. Right

Discover the release that is best for you and your swing that will give you the fastest re ...

AXIOM Release Overview

Finally, understand what it means and feels like to fully release the club

AXIOM Compression Drill

THE drill that will give you the consistency you desire with effortless distance you didn' ...

AXIOM Unleash Your Inner Speed Demon!

Learn how three tiny changes can unleash 30+ more yards on your drives when you need it.

Golf Swing Sequence - How the Lower Body Works

Struggle with coming over the top or don't know how to use your lower body in the golf swi ...

The Magic Box - How to Check Your Lower Body in the Transition

The "Magic Box" is a term created by Chuck Quinton to help golfers learn the proper transi ...

Start Downswing Before Completing Backswing

You need to start your downswing before completing your backswing. This pro-style transiti ...

Golf Swing Transition Drill

Most instructors consider the transition in the golf swing the most difficult, if not impo ...

Which Muscles to Feel During Golf Swing Transition

Learn exactly which muscles you should feel and in what sequence during the golf swing tra ...

You Hit the Golf Ball with Your LEGS!!

You hit the ball with your legs, specifically your lead leg, not your hands in RST. Learn ...

Golf Downswing, Rotary Golf Downswing Overview

Mastering the setup, weight transfer and takeaway are critical to a great golf swing. But ...

Right Arm Only Downswing Drill

Once you've worked with the Throw the Ball Drill, you'll want to begin mastering this much ...

Drill for Golf Downswing Sequencing

In this video, I'll show you where you're losing power and a simple drill that'll get it b ...

5 Minutes to the Perfect Golf Downswing

All the work you've done on your RST golf swing to this point has culminated in this next ...

Golf Swing Follow Through

The follow through is a result of all things you have done in your golf swing up until thi ...

Adam Scott Driver Swing Follow Through

In this Adam Scott follow through video, you'll find out: 1) How Adam Scott finishes his p ...

What You Should Think Over the Golf Ball

I get asked all the time what I'm thinking over the ball. This video finally answers it - ...

Taking Your Golf Swing Drills to the Course

How to take what you're doing with your golf swing drills in front of the mirror to the go ...

Key to Creating Lag

The secret key to creating lag has been an elusive thing for most amateur golfers. In this video, I show you the key to producing tons of lag and the one key movement that is detrimental to losing lag.

  • Lag is the angle between the RIGHT forearm and the shaft - not the left as many teach
  • To improve lag, you should feel you're bringing the club down almost entirely with the right arm
  • Left shoulder stays shut, feels lower than the right all the way into impact
  • Practice with the right arm only - it will feel like the club is coming straight down
  • Add a little bit of forearm rotation to square the club face

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Jesse
Chuck, I was looking for something else on YouTube and came across one of your free videos. However, I can't seem to find it on your website. I tried to search using the title on YouTube, with no success. When I clicked on the "Watch this secret lag video by clicking here" it took me to this video, which isn't the same one. In the one on YouTube, you're using an impact bag, set two feet behind you, to encourage a weight shift and lag in order not to strike the bag on the downswing. Can you tell me which video this is? Here is the link to the YouTube video I'm referring to: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=szKGxNePxg0 Thanks!
February 5, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jesse. That video is no longer on the site. I apologize. I will ask the team if that particular drill will be re-done in the future for placement on the site.
February 5, 2017
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Jesse
Ok, thanks Craig.
February 5, 2017
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Greg
Does this feeling of the shaft coming down vertically the same with the driver and fairway woods?
October 10, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Greg. Fairway woods more than likely. But, the driver usually feel a little shallower.
October 11, 2016
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Greg
In the Vejay video Chuck talks about the left arm swinging the club from the end of the shaft. In this video he seems to emphasize the right arm pulling straight down. Could you explain.
September 12, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Greg. We prefer lead side usage to release and help with lag. This video is for help with players that have a very dramatic cast move and need to feel how their trail am will help maintain the angle longer coming down. The Frisbee Drill or 4 Step Lag Builder is closer to the model swing.
September 13, 2016
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Greg
Where do you envision the release point to be?
September 12, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Greg. Take a look at the Left Hand Release Drill. You will see Chuck refer the the pleat on pant of the lead leg. More than likely you will feel it start earlier as you enter the trail thigh. But, Chuck's feeling of the pleat should help.
September 13, 2016
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Dan
Craig, thanks for getting me to the Kaymer video. It helps me understand how to deal with getting power in the last three feet.
July 14, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Dan. Great. Glad the video helped provide a good visual.
July 15, 2016
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Dan
Craig, I'm getting confused, in other video's Chuck talks about getting the club down with the weight shift to the left and in this video he talks about pulling it down with the right arm. Doing it with the right arm which I prefer sometimes causes me to hit it fat. Doing it with a shift to the left causes me to loose speed because I still don't understand how to go from 20+ mph during the swing to 90 +mph in the last 3 feet of the swing. Need Help? Dan
July 13, 2016
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Dan, there are different ways to train lag into the swing. Each person can grasp the information differently. It is most important when working on developing more lag in your swing to see which drill is giving you the most progress. Most of the new stuff you will see from Chuck will talk about the importance of using your legs to pull the arms and shoulders down into the hitting area which helps you preserve and maintain lag into the release.
July 13, 2016
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Michael
When I'm trying to create lag in my golf swing I always seem to sky the ball and or slice even more. I allow my wrists and forearms to be very relaxed throughout the majority of the swing. I shift my weight to my lead side and allow my wrists to downcock. Then I release my trail arm like I'm throwing the golf head at it, keeping my trail elbow pit to the sky into contact and rotating over in the follow through. Any advice or videos you could recommend?
July 7, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Michael. You might be firing your right arm too much (if right handed). Take a look at Step 3 and Step 4 of the RST 5 Step System. Make sure the lead is more in control into the release.
July 8, 2016
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Michael
Thanks. I'll check that out.
July 9, 2016
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David
Hi Craig, I am a bit puzzled by the last 'key' that Chuck mention's which is the slight closing of the club face with the right hand (like a fanning motion) approaching the delivery position. I thought this was the duty of the left wrist?
June 24, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello David. The lead wrist does have the duty of squaring up the face in the delivery position. Once, the swing has been mastered. Little elements from the trail side can be added for extra speed. Certain pressure points in the hand and scapular positioning to add core rotational speed. Stick with the lead for right now though. This is in the minority of importance.
June 24, 2016
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David
Hi Craig, maybe you could help me with/critique my thought's on sources of lag. Before RST I thought of lag as the angle between the lead forearm and club shaft. Now I understand the angles are associated with the trail arm. Here we build in angles at the top of the back swing, one between the trail forearm and club shaft (I call this primary lag) and one between the upper and lower portion's of the trail arm (I call this secondary lag), both roughly 90 degree's. I am trying to understand the precise function of each or whether they amount to one and the same thing. I see the primary lag as controlling the shaft angle into impact - obviously we want the hand's in front but to varying degrees depending on the shot trajectory we require e.g. retaining a very bent (feel's like) for lowish shot's with maximum compression and a flat wrist for higher shot's. I see the secondary lag as a power source from the delivery position down into impact by extension and loosing the angle between the upper and lower arm's. Am I on the right track or overthinking the issue - any help much appreciated.
April 30, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello David. I think you are over thinking the issue a little bit. I see where you are going with your descriptions. However, I don't want you to start confusing shaft lean with lag. You are trying to increase the wrist angle between the trail forearm and wrist. You are trying to maintain and not increase the trail elbow flexion as you continue in the downswing. I try to steer more players to focus less on the trail arm and more on their lead arm. If you are using the lead side and pulling correctly with the lead arm you can create a tremendous lag angle coming down. As long as the trail arm isn't firing too soon and staying very passive. Take a look at the Orange Whip Drill. You can see how much angle you can create without the trail arm on the club. The key would be when you add the trail arm back. Can you keep it passive enough to create the same or close to the same amount of angle by not increasing trail elbow flexion and more from the wrist.
April 30, 2016
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David
Hi Craig, In the fourth sentence you say you are trying to increase the wrist angle but I thought a more lag would reduce this angle. Anyway. yes, I am confused about comparing shaft lean and lag. So, I do clearly understand shaft lean which comes as a function of a flat/bent left wrist at impact. For lag, I understood from the video the reference was the trail arm but you seem to be suggesting that the reference is the lead arm which was my pre-RST way to think of it. This way of thinking would be in line with the Downcock Drill to increase lag where the angle between the lead arm and reduces with a soft wrist downcock? I am sure the 'penny' will drop soon.....but any more help in dfferentiation between the two would help.
April 30, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello David. We are looking at the same thing regarding the fourth sentence. Technically, the the actual number would be a reduced angle. However, when teaching I usually say increase the amount of lag. We are both on the same page just referred to it a different way. For ex: 25% wrist set in the takeaway and that number gradually increases until fully set when you reach max lag point. The trail arm will be the measured lag angled. But, use the lead side to help create the increase. I agree with soft wrist downcocking due to weight shift or change in momentum to the lead side. The goal is for the wrists to remain soft and supple. As you shift, pull from the torso and lead arm the lag will increase (Frisbee Drill). The trail arm must remain free of excessive tension to help create more angle and store the energy into the proper positioning into the release.
April 30, 2016
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David
Hi Craig, OK, getting there but one of the blockages was Chuck's emphasis on the right arm and references on the video to 'pull down with the right arm' which was new to me?
April 30, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello David. There are players that have extreme casting issues and have to retrain what the trail arm needs to do in the downswing. Hence this video, Step by Step Right Arm Drills, etc. Once that type of player has retrained where the trail arm should go. They should change gears because the ultimate goal for all of our students is to be a lead side dominant swinger.
April 30, 2016
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David
Hi Craig, Thank's for your help and patience
April 30, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
No worries David. That's what I'm here for. Keep working hard. You will get the swing down.
April 30, 2016
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Douglas
Hi Craig, I have taken numerous lessons from pros and have really struggled to maintain lag deep into the trailing thigh. My swing looks almost identical to the student in the video. I still have an issue keeping my arms in front of my body during the down swing. I have reviewed and tried ALL of the drills on the website but without success. My shoulders are fairly closed and my tush line is maintained, and my wrist and arms are soft. I almost feel like my arms are too slow to catch up with the rest of my body during the down swing. Any ideas on how to remedy this problem? thanks!
April 27, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Douglas. You are more than likely still pushing with your trail side at some point in the downswing. Take a look at the Frisbee Drill and Orange Whip Video. Get that trail arm off the club and focus on lead arm dominance. Check yourself on film. See how much angle you retain. Then, the process from there is slowing adding the trail hand back to where it is only allowing for the ride.
April 27, 2016
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Douglas
I should have clarified this on my original post. My trail and lead arms/wrists are working properly. I have hooked myself up to body sensors at a golf practice facility that confirms all of my numbers (shoulder tun, hip turn, etc) are within tour ranges. I almost feel like this is not an attainable goal.
April 27, 2016
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Douglas
I have noticed players like Tiger Woods have their wrist/shaft angle maintained thru the middle of their trail thigh while their at the bottom of the squat. I tend to rise/post on the left side a tad bit earlier. Maybe this is what leads to loss of wrist/shaft angle earlier.
April 27, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Douglas. Have you uploaded a swing for review? I don't think it is unattainable hearing how you have a lot of good in the swing.
April 27, 2016
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Douglas
Hi Craig, I downloaded my latest swing video for you. The only swing thought that seems to help is slowing my transition at the beginning of my down swing. I don't believe there is anything else I can do to improve the depth of my lag.
May 8, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Douglas. I believe I already did the review. Not know it was you with the specific items we have been talking about. If you fix that upper half hanging back and the impact alignments. It will allow you to pull the lead arm a little more in front with the angles you desire.
May 9, 2016
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Douglas
Hi Craig, i just checked and my video has not been reviewed. It must be another RST student. I did make my video to your attention so hopefully it gets to you. Thanks in advance.
May 9, 2016
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David
Hi Craig, I have been reflecting on the topics of lag and the lead wrist to see if there is an interdependence. I see that the reason for trying to generate lag is connected to club head speed and would be essential for full shot's where distance is the objective. On the other hand the lead wrist is for control of the club loft and face angle so there is no real interdependence - they are doing different things. Hence, for maximum distance (with an iron) you would optimise lag i.e. don't overdo it but make sure there is enough and ensure the left wrist is bent at impact to compress the ball. I started with the thought that distance was just a function of club head speed (lag) but unless you combine that with the bent wrist, you will not maximise distance. On the other hand for shorter touch shot's around the green you may only need a bit of lag and a flat left wrist. Is this about right?
April 16, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello David. The bent lead wrist will help with better compression and shaft lean. De-lofting the club face to make a club stronger than its intended or original loft. The amount of lag and forward lean with the wrist will change depending on the type shot as you described. More feel and touch will require less lag and forward lean. Max hit or speed will usually encompass more lag and forward leaning lead wrist.
April 17, 2016
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David
Hi Craig, Yes, thank's for that, I was focusing on the different action's of the lead wrist i.e. the cocking and bending action's which are of course in different planes. I think of cocking/uncocking as the a primary source of lag which you try try to preserve into the delivery area (on full shot's) and the bending as a secondary source which can LOOK like, and to some extent behave like lag but is directed at de-lofting the club
April 18, 2016
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Jason
RST team, thank you for all your wonderful research and ideas on teaching. I have been taking some "friend" lessons from a buddy who has medical exemption right now. He is an excellent player and is very knowledgeable. Problem is all his teaching is accurate, everything, but I have yet to to understand the how, I fully understand the why so far. Your website is perfect in explaining the how to do it. Because feeling something and what's actually happening in the swing is usually not explained well. You guys nailed it, bravo!!!!
March 3, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jason. Thanks for the compliments of our site. We are always happy to help teach the why and how! Good luck to your buddy returning from medical exemption.
March 3, 2016
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Roger
With the right arm only should there be some speed to the swing? Have trouble being able to hold my wrist hinge while going down at a partial speed.
February 3, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Roger. A little momentum could help. But, it doesn't need to be overly fast. Take a look at the Step by Step Right Arm Drills.
February 4, 2016
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Hector
But what about the left arm , in the downswing what I shoul feel ?
November 4, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Hector. Take a look at the LADD Video and Frisbee Drill.
November 4, 2015
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Lance
Craig Thanks for this video link Very helpful to understand what to do with the right arm in the downswing I think I am close to putting it all together now Take care
October 29, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Lance. Glad to help.
October 29, 2015
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Paul
To be clear on the last comment. My shoulders are in correct position on upswing they lose and left shoulder comes up on downswing.
October 6, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Paul. I answered below.
October 7, 2015
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Paul
Hi, watching this video great. I understand one of my problems that I can't seem to fix. When I "hug" my club and rotate , through the swing my right shoulder is always higher then my left ( which is the correct form). When I convert that to a normal swing I can't get my left shoulder down, no matter how hard I try my body tilts up during the swing (which is bad form) and of course I lose lag that way. Any suggestions?
October 6, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Paul. Take a look at the Level Shoulder Drill and the LADD Video to help keep the left shoulder in proper position.
October 7, 2015
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Toby
Should the shoulders be as per the set up (in the box) throughout the swing? The takeaway move includes that right shoulder blade glide and puts the right shoulder into a trailing position. Should this position be kept through to impact? Does the left shoulder, once you have that feeling of being shut to the target, move in a similar way as we go in to impact and the follow through i.e the shoulder blade works down and in? I have been working with Steven on getting some lag.
September 10, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Toby. You should remain in the box throughout the swing. The trail shoulder will remain engaged to the body. But, you don't need to leave it fully retracted as in the 90 degree turn position at the top. The lead lat in the downswing will help pull the arms back in front.
September 10, 2015
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Stéphane
Still working on lag. I would like to know how you guys know how much lag angle is enough. By example, here's a video of me working on lag with a 6 iron. When do you know it's enough lag? What are your reference points? Thanks a lot! https://vimeo.com/138817529
September 9, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Stephane. Lag amount can be variable. The key is on the downswing to not have the club go away from the body too soon, but actually get closer and increase the angle. Some reference points would be has the angle increased from the top of the backswing position to halfway down versus loss of angle. Also, the hands in front of the trail thigh and the club being parallel to the ground are good benchmarks. I apologize, but all videos need to be submitted through the swing review portal. If you need help with the submission or "how to" please feel free to let us know.
September 10, 2015
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Stéphane
I'm currently working on lag and having hard time when both hands are on the club. When using one independant hands at a time it's fine. I would like to know if it's ok at the top of the backswing to hinge the right wrist back...I mean like trying to touch your right forearm with the back of your right top hand. I think that usually when I try to have lag I cock wrist from the top of backswing but hinging back seems to be more easy too feel the weight of the club laging but I would like to know if it's the good move or not. Thanks a lot!
September 1, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Stephane. The angle will increase, but try not to have too much roll back of the trail wrist. You might start excessively bowing the lead and pushing the trail arm behind you.
September 2, 2015
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David
Hi creating lag with the right arm is such a profound mechanical move but I would bet. Out teachers never mention it. My question is that the final adjustment made is rotating the club away from the right leg so you don't get stuck. Can you substitute a steeper take away angle to eliminate the arm rotation or will that interfere with with the right hip clearing properly causing high ball or scooping flight?
August 29, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello David. I would rather you shy away from too much of a steeper takeaway angle. It will tend to give you a more lifting/army backswing and eliminate proper rotation of the club.
August 31, 2015
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Jarek
So Im having a hard time distinguishing the notion that for lag you need to feel that the right arm is bringing the club down vs the other videos that talk about how the left arm needs to be the dominant arm. Can you explain?
August 25, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jarek. This drill is designed for the player that is really struggling with too much right side cast and needs to forceable train the right to work in the correct positioning. Both arms have a job to do in the swing. The left arm will be the dominant arm as the right arm helps maintain the angle. However, in some cases you can't solely focus on the left arm doing all the hard work.
August 26, 2015
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Stéphane
Hi! First question: At what frame of a swing video can you tell someone as lost is lag angles? On the picture below, is it at frame #1 or #2? Second question: My trailing arm(right) is always behind me instead of infront of me. What ever I try in small swing I'm not able to get the correct possition like the picture named "No ball swing". I'm lost and need help! Thanks! http://s24.photobucket.com/user/leclairstephane/media/LagQuestion_zps4lborvtw.jpg.html
August 19, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Stephane. You can start seeing straight from the top when someone starts to lose angle. You can use either frame 1 or 2. It looks like you are losing a little lag too soon (barely though) with the ball swing for 2 reasons. Lack of pull from the lead arm and you are out of position at impact. You are getting a little beyond NJA. Use the Face on Impact Alignment to help you get better stacked and the Frisbee Drill for good lead arm pull.
August 19, 2015
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Stéphane
Hi Craig! Thank you for your reply. I work hard on left hand only drill since 2 weeks, do you think it should help me with the lack of left hand pull you are talking? I didn't see any difference though, maybe I should try the frisbee move in the left hand only drill. When you say that I'm beyond NJA, can you tell me which part is beyong NJA? Lower body looks fine to me so I guess it's my shoulders? Thanks!
August 20, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Stephane. The camera angle doesn't look perfectly centered. It looked like your lead shoulder was slightly ahead of the ankle joint. Yes, combining a little of the frisbee feeling with release would be a great motion to practice.
August 20, 2015
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Evan
I have a player on my team when he downcocks the club, instead of pulling down the club , as he starts down the down cock will Get flatter so he hits the ball right like a push. Ideas to help straighten the down cock? Could his right hand be to light on the club?
August 14, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Evan. The Throw the Ball Drill and Step By Step Right Arm Drills should help.
August 14, 2015
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Evan
Ok thanks!
August 15, 2015
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jeren
Is there a video that discusses why we want the bottom of our swing arc to be past the ball and not just under the ball? And, the same question from another angle (so to speak), why we want the arms to be extended fully only after contact? Thanks!
July 18, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jeren. Proper Ball Position and the Problems Caused by Poor Ball Position will discuss the bottom of the swing arc in the Setup Section better than I can here. The trail arm needs to have a slight bend in it at impact. If the trail arm were to be fully extended it would be hard to add core rotational speed or body force at impact. The lead arm if fully maxed out the club would bottom out with full extension and ulnar deviation because you wouldn't be able to clear enough room or retain shaft lean.
July 18, 2015
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Stephen
Hi Craig, following my review you mentioned about shifting and letting my arms fall. You also mentioned about your you tube video. Can you name the video so I can look it up
July 1, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Stephen. I emailed you.
July 1, 2015
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Stephen
Thanks
July 1, 2015
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Mark
In practicing what Chuck is describing in the video, it is not possible without video to determine where the hands are when the club is parallel to the ground. I have practiced doing the drill slowly and then hitting shots from the proper position starting when the club is parallel to the ground. In a full swing, I have focussed on attempting a swing path where my right elbow feels like it is passing in front of my right thigh--as opposed to getting stuck as has occurred frequently in the past.
June 13, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Mark. It is hard without a camera to determine the position. But, I like that you are practicing it slowly and hitting shots from a shorter position. Hopefully, this will give you the feeling of not being stuck and getting that trail arm working in front properly.
June 13, 2015
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Mark
Will the frisbee drill release with the left hand automatically cause the right hand to rotate the way Chuck is describing at the end of the video? I want to get to the positions described in this video while letting the left hand control the release. I tend to miss shots whenever my right arm dominates.
June 13, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Mark. If you release properly with the lead hand and let the trail hand follow the motion it will produce what Chuck describes. All Chuck is doing is zeroing out the plane with proper lead arm motion as talked about in the Trace the Plane Line Video in the Advanced Downswing Section.
June 13, 2015
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Ray
If you rotate the arms on the way down without a conscious rotation on the backswing, won't you hook it hard left? Hogan rotated both back and through which, in my experience. creates a high soft draw with penetrating ball flight.
June 9, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Ray. The arms do rotate in the backswing. Most players tend to over do the rotation though. Take a look at the Unleash your Thumbnail for Power in the Advanced Takeaway Section and the Using the Wrist Efficiently Video in the Advanced Introduction Section for some good visuals.
June 10, 2015
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howard
I see that lag is created by a soft right arm and shaft angle and it's illustrated with an iron. My question is how does lag and it's release look when related to a longer club like a hybrid or driver?
April 21, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Howard. Lag and release will stay the same until the Driver. The Driver requires more of a positive angle of attack versus and iron/hybrid. You don't necessarily adjust the lag and release, but the setup. One swing for all shots just a different setup. Take a look at Driver Setup Adjustments in the Setup Advanced Section and the Driver Launch Angle Video in the Bomb You Driver Series.
April 21, 2015
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Greg
Hi RJ, When I see a video of my swing, as I start down it appears my right hand is pushing the club more upright creating a steep down path and slight outside to in path. I am not a slicer. My tendency has been to block right or pull left. Any thoughts on why I may want to create a more steep plane on the way down?
April 18, 2015
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
Greg, we certainly don't want to be pushing on the club with our hands during the downswing. If you stay loose with the wrists and the hands, your body should pull the arms into the position that you want them to be in when utilizing the lower body correctly. After properly utilizing the lower body, all you need to do is your 9 to 3 drill and you're home free with a great swing. R.J.
April 19, 2015
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Peter
I've to say i about ready to give up and realize that I'm not going to be able to create proper lag, my poor RST instructor Steven Maes must be going bald or is as frustrated as heck in trying to get me to get this simple concept down. We've been working on this for over 2 months now and rather than getting better i feel i going the other way. The more I try to create the proper lag the more i cast or turn incorrectly - i'm just not getting it. It's not that I'm bad golfer with a 8 handicap - it's just i'm tried of flipping or casting and not hitting down through the ball. I must have every training devise known to man trying to fix this problem - i follow the drill in this program and for some reason it just doesn't seem to sink in.
April 15, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Peter. Don't give up yet. I promise Steven hasn't given up and neither should you. I/we have changed too many swings for the better than have you fail to create more lag. Lag isn't some wild beast you have to tame. You need to let it happen. You can't force it. It is a natural movement. The more you try and hold on to it, the more you will lose. Have you taken a look at the Frisbee Drill (Weight Shift Section)? With good lead arm training and learning to let go of a little control I have changed thousands of students from "casters" to "laggers."
April 15, 2015
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Seth
Should I practice this drill up to speed, or is it a drill that is only done at slow speeds for exaggeration purposes. When I sequence the each motion, it totally makes sense how efficient it makes your swing. Thanks
March 28, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Seth. Do it slowly first. The key is you are trying to retain lag. Not fire it too soon. Work slowly at first. Maintain the angle. You can add a little pace once you master the move.
March 28, 2015
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Terry
I keep going over this video and one that Clay does about lag and I'm unable to improve the lag such that I get more distance out of my shots. I've come to understand that if the mechanics are right, wide backswing, weight shift to start the downswing and posting up on the left side, that all else will fall into place. It's not happening. I think that it's connected to my right hand not holding onto the wristcock long enough into the downswing. The hands are by the right thigh but the club is hanging below parallel. So is it necessary to hold on to that wristcock "intentionally" to get to the right thigh?
March 27, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Terry. If you start forcing lag to stay (holding it harder) it will start to go away early. You need to pull from the lead side and relax. Take a look at the Proper Muscle Activation Video in the Advanced Introduction Section. Watch Chuck use the lead arm and effortlessly allow lag to maintain and release. You might be trying to force the lag. Also, the Re-Shaping in the Introduction Section would be good as well.
March 27, 2015
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richard
Don't understand. Chuck says to pull the right hand down not pull with the left. This is confusing?
April 19, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Richard. Both arms have a job in the swing and the lead arm is the main attraction on the downswing. However, there are cases when a player really struggles to get the right arm under control. That's where this video comes in. The majority of players need to stick with lead arm training and turning the trail side off.
April 19, 2015
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Terry
Is there a video on the site that shows the complete swing that shows all the fundamentals and mechanics that have been discussed up to this point (preferably one that shows Chuck's swing)? THis would be helpful as we try to emulate the instruction being given. thanks Terry
March 24, 2015
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Terry -- There is not such a video however, you can see all of the model swings in the self analysis tab. There are quite a few of Chuck's swing in there. Hope that helps.
March 24, 2015
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Dave
I have tended to push from the right side causing a bit of flip with my hands and spinning the left shoulder. My RST instructor wanted me to pull from the left side on the downswing. I am starting to accomplish this. Chuck says to pull down vertically with the right arm in this drill. Couldn't this be a bit of a push. After my progress my "feel" is to pull with the left side, keep the left shoulder lower and that will make the right arm come down vertically and from there I would throw the ball with the right arm. Is this correct?
March 21, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Yes, you are correct. This drill is designed for the player that is really struggling with too much right side cast and needs to forceable train the right to work in the correct positioning.
March 21, 2015
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Terry
So the right arm is not passive? It pulls vertically down in the downswing? I thought it was strictly a left side pull... thx Terry
March 16, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Terry. This drill is designed for the player that is really struggling with too much right side cast and needs to forceable train the right to work in the correct positioning.
March 16, 2015
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Greg
Hi RJ, Do you feel like you are already shifting back to the left by the time your club has reached the 9:00 position, or are you further along with your backswing? I feel like this should happen at some point before the backswing is completed to help the body create the lag in the wrists. It is hard to create this lag feeling if you wait till you complete your backswing. Can you describe your sensation as to when this happens. By the way set has improved.
March 10, 2015
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
Greg, I'm glad to hear that your setup has improved. It's going to go along way in making the other parts of your swing, not only more consistent, but easier to learn. You'll want to start shifting your weight, sitting into the lead side glute just before the wrists set at the top. Once the club is parallel to the ground at the top, you'll want to start pulling the hips around from the large muscle groups on the lead side. If you go to the swing viewer and watch Chuck's swing models in slow motion, you'll see the exact point when you should start shifting and rotating. It's tough to get used to but if you feel like the arms' job are done after the trail side elbow flexion and think about swinging only with the lower body from that point, you'll start to get it. Once you'll get it, you'll feel like the club is setting itself at the top as opposed to you actively trying to set your wrists. R.J.
March 11, 2015
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WILLIAM
February 28, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Bill. Do you have a specific question about this video?
March 1, 2015
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WILLIAM
Craig, thanks but No
March 1, 2015
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joseph
This drill is impossible ... I have my shoulders braced against a wall so there is no possible way they might spin ... I pull the right arm straight down and still the angle between the right thumb and right forearm gets casted by the inertia of the motion ... the only way to retain a bit of lag is to tense the right wrist to an excessive level ... after a couple of reps I have a sore wrist Joe
February 25, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Joseph. Have you experimented with the Downcock Pump Drill in the Advanced Downswing Section? It could help solve the issue.
February 25, 2015
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joseph
I do the drill all the time ... no problem ... in a full swing at speed no problem until the arms are waist high then kiss the lag goodbye!
February 26, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Joseph. Combine the Downcock Drill with the Transition Drill and Exaggerated Hand Ahead in the same section. Practice at speed. If you still lose a little too early. Work on the release and maximize your impact position.
February 26, 2015
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George
A bit confused. This video says to feel the downswing with the right arm bringing the club down, but in many other videos, and in my swing reviews, it says to pull from the left from the transition. I have struggled with keeping the lag and releasing at impact, feeling mostly that the left side is pulling in the entire downswing. After coming across this video and practicing in the mirror, getting the right hand to move straight down seems to work better for me and certainly feels more natural. Is it fair to say that the left side shouldn't take over the downswing until the hands are approaching the trail leg and the club is parallel to the ground? As long as the right arm isn't throwing the club or extending and is moving straight down, and isn't flipping at impact, this should work right?
February 5, 2015
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
Patterson, Yes, it is fair to say to pull down until you get the club parallel to the ground. When we say to pull from the left side, we're talking about the obliques, lats and glute on the left side to pull the lower body through the swing. If you pull down from the top with the lead arm, your shoulders will fly open and you'll have an outside to in path (coming over the top), causing a slice. The best two videos that you could watch right now for the concerns that you have would be the "Sang Moon Bae hips for lag" and "Rory McIroy and Brooks Koepka - Releasing for speed" videos. Let us know what you think after reviewing those two videos. R.J.
February 5, 2015
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Jim
This is certainly the most comprehensive video on explaining lag that I have seen on the site but I have one question regarding the distance between the right elbow and the right side of the body. In other videos we are told to have a space there but in this one it seems that the right elbow is almost touching the side of the body. I have also seen this when looking at professional players swings such as Rory McIlroy. There seems to be hardly any space between his elbow and his side. Is this something that you can change depending on what is comfortable to you or is it crucial to have a certain space here?
February 4, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jim. The key is to have the trail arm working in front. Some players will have the trail elbow graze the side or work clearly in front. Rory starts from a little deeper than the typical Rotary Swinger. Therefore, being a little closer to his side during the downswing.
February 4, 2015
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Steve
Ok just watched "Key to Creating Lag" again. Great video. Thanks for the help. My swing definitely suffering from significant lag deficiency. Question: where you mention "closing" the left shoulder to help create the proper conditions for lag, can I think of this as in...keeping my back to the target for as long as possible? (That's a concept/swing thought I can process a little better.)
February 2, 2015
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
Steve, If that helps you keep your shoulders closed longer, than certainly. If you check out the Sang Moon Bae Hips for lag video, it has another take on the same body movement that might hit home for you as well. You should be able to find the video using the search function. If not, look up Sang Moon Bae under the tour pros section of the site. Best of luck to you! R.J.
February 2, 2015
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gordon
I have the impression that this is one of the more complex phases in the golf swing sequence, much going on in a very subtle manner! No wonder then that I am struggling with it and therefore have a couple of questions where you may be able to help. Firstly is it correct that the Checkpoint discussed in this video, hands in front of trsiling thigh, is the "squat" position described elsewhere? Secondly could you clarify for me the correct postipns of the shoulders and of the hips at this Checkpoint. Last but not least, I have been told that my chicken wings problem is being caused by an overly dominant right arm (I am rh). How should I rationalise this with the guidance in the video that the right arm should in fact be felt and active to reach the desired Checkpoint? Is it the case that first it is the right arm, which then at and after impact should defer to the left arm to complete follow through and finish without the ignomy of a chicken wing finale? Thanks in advance for your insights, regards, Gordon.
January 21, 2015
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Gordon -- First off, I want to apologize for us not responding to this comment sooner. I am not sure how, but it slipped through the cracks. We are generally really good about getting these comments/questions answered rather quickly. To answer your questions... 1. When you work to sit or shift to the lead side and allow the arms to fall, the hands will be just outside and above the trail thigh. The squat is described in the tush line video, the squat to square video, the tiger squat video. 2. When you squat and sit into the left side, the hips should move back to a square position, which will in turn unwind the shoulders so they are still roughly closed about 45 degrees or so. 3. If you are right arm dominant in the downswing, this is probably not going to be the best drill for you. I would first focus all of your attention on 5 minutes to a perfect release, then work into a good 9 to 3 drill and then stack in 9 to 3 lag building drills. You need to learn how to control the clubface from the lead side and have the trail arm play nicely down into impact and through the hitting area. This will allow you to feel what extension is supposed to feel like and then you can work back up to the top of the swing and work on sequencing. Hope that helps.
January 27, 2015
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gordon
Thanks Chris. I will follow your advice regarding which videos to follow up on. The RTS video archive is so comprehensive it is easy to wander off and get lost watching tip after tip! Regards, Gordon.
January 28, 2015
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hank
The right arm is coming straight down as the weight is shifting simultaneously? Not shift and then drop the right arm?
January 8, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Hank. It is a blended move. As you shift the momentum change will help you increase the lag and the arms will start to come down by pull/gravity. Take a look at Re-Shaping Your Swing for Lag in the Introduction Section.
January 8, 2015
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Donna
Does the How to Create Lag drill where rotating the right arm near hip high apply to the driver? My driver face is often open at strike which is costing distance.
December 9, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Donna. You probably need more lead arm control to square up the face. Use the Left Hand Release Drill in the Downswing Section to release the club. Try the Re-Shaping Your Swing for Lag in the Introduction Section combined with the lead arm release for more lag and squaring of the face.
December 9, 2014
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John
This drill is really working great for me with my irons as I see not only distance improvement but most important, consistency. But I seem to be having trouble performing this drill with my Driver. I get great contact but every shot seems to go about 30 yards left of my target.
November 30, 2014
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
John, Is your path a straight pull or is it starting straight and tailing off to the left at the end? R.J.
November 30, 2014
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John
Hi RJ It is definitely a straight pull I love the contact ball carries about 230 yds I am making a conscience effort not to spin out with my shoulders.
December 1, 2014
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
John, Then your release is good but your path is outside to in. Work on making sure that you lead arm is swinging under your lead shoulder, this will eliminate the path issues. R.J.
December 1, 2014
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John
Thanks RJ I'm Not quite sure what you mean by under my lead shoulder. can you explain it differently.
December 1, 2014
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
John, Like in the stance when you're looking down the line, you want your arms to hang directly under the shoulder joints, not reaching out towards the ball. The same can be said for the downswing. You don't want your arms to be flying out away from you, especially from the top (shoulder spinning). Essentially, you want your hands lower and closer to your body than what you're currently doing now. Almost as if you were letting your left arm just hang under the left shoulder as you swung. R.J.
December 1, 2014
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John
Got it Thank you RJ
December 1, 2014
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
John, You're welcome R.J.
December 1, 2014
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JOE
what's the best way to drill pushing my left foot into the ground before pulling down .. i have 2 screws in my left ankle and i am having a hard time trying to get shifted or planting ? thanks for the help by the way, i was a 20 when i started and i am at 15 now .. just a few mo.
November 6, 2014
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
Joe, Congrats on your success thus far. I would probably say that doing drills like the Throw the Ball drill that help us naturally sequence our lower body without having too much emphasis on the squat/driving the heel into the ground might be successful for you. When you're pushing your heel into the ground, you don't have to feel like you're trying to leave a hole in the earth. If you watch Chris Tyler's new video of Jeff Flag, you'll see that you only need an inch or two of squat and a couple of inches of lift from extending the left leg in order to generate a lot of power. With the state of your ankle, I would do a less exaggerated move with pushing your heel in, but don't cut it out all together. R.J.
November 7, 2014
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Mark
This should tie in nicely with the Squat to Square video right?
September 25, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Mark. Shifting properly and not spinning too soon is a great way to maintain lag.
September 26, 2014
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DENIS
I am right handed at everything EXCEPT golf. This means my right wrist is stronger than the left. All my golfing life I have had a problem with incorrect weight shift and throwing my torso at the ball. In another video RST promotes a release of the lead hand early in the downswing with the glove logo moving from a position of facing the camera to facing the ground. In this video you recommend the release of the trail hand in the downswing. Perhaps it does not matter which hand does the releasing. However, should this releasing of either or both hands occur when say the shaft is parallel to the ground on the downswing or earlier. A little confused! My fault no doubt.
September 12, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Denis. With your over right hand dominance, stay focused on releasing the lead hand properly. Your trail hand will more than likely do its job of adding speed. Focus hard on the Release Drill Videos and take a look at the Vijay Release Drill in the Advanced Downswing Section to understand not wanting too much trail hand dominance.
September 12, 2014
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Tom
I can see the first 4 steps of the drill, but can the 5th step happen without having to mentally think about it? Having to "think" about a slight rotation seems like it would cancel concentration needed elsewhere.
September 9, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Tom. Yes, the 5th step can happen manually. However, some players love getting into that high lead shoulder position and need to feel some zeroing of their plane into the strike with the shoulder down and rotation.
September 9, 2014
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ralph
I noticed that your students legs come together instead of staying wide. Shouldn't the knees stay wide for maximum lag
August 31, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Ralph. You definitely don't want your knees touching into impact. As long as you don't push from the trail side leg and use the lead side pull correctly. The optimum gap will remain.
September 1, 2014
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George
Just got my first video review yesterday. I was given five videos to watch primarily on the take away and rotating my shoulders by pulling instead of pushing. I watch them allege the drills and then went out and played league night golf. Wow what a difference. For the first time every drive was straight and down the center. No more spins and slices. I scored a 38 which easily could have been a 34. The really good news is that I just started this program. How cool is that. Thanks big time
August 8, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey George. Thanks. That's fantastic. Keep it Up!
August 8, 2014
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David
I tried the drill and have had no luck. I "feel" like I am getting the right arm position and lag that is mentioned in the drill, but on video I am still casting the club big time. I am still spinning my shoulders and the club casts in the lower portion of my downswing..... Any pointers to achieve success?
July 30, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello David. If you are spinning the shoulders and casting in the lower part of the downswing. Practice the Re-Shaping Your Swing for Lag in the Introduction Section. Also, the 9 to 3 Lag Building Drills in the Advanced Downswing Section. Use the Re-Shape to keep the trail side passive on the way down. And the 9 to 3 to maintain the lag more into the strike.
July 30, 2014
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Juan
Hello, have a confusion about what to focus on during the downswing. Should it be the right arm/hand like the " throw the ball drill" Should it be the right arm/hand like this video to produce LAG and position the right hand before impact, or Should it be the left arm/hand since the golf swing is left dominant like the vijay drill swing that you recently published? How do you make it compatible all this different concepts in the downswing? Thanks
July 23, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Juan. The Key to Creating Lag Video focuses on the notion most people are right side dominate and need to feel where the right arm will be. That's why we have videos pertaining to the right and left arm on the downswing. Teaching the positions the right arm will go to. Predominately controlled by what the left is doing. The right arm will maintain the lag and fire on the downswing. The weight shift (momentum change), pull from the left (physics), and supple wrist will increase the angle on the way down. You have two arms, both have a job to do in the swing. Most golfers "tend" to be more right side dominant and so focusing on the right arm isn't needed as that skill is already developed, but both arms have to work together.
July 23, 2014
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Jim
Having a devil of a time maintaining lag. I can't seem to maintain it down to my inner left thigh with the club horizontal of higher. I have been told many times that I have no or very little wrist cock in my backswing. Been compared to Steve Stricker and not in a complimentary way. Would it help if I set my wrists more to create more angle to hold in the down swing?
July 22, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jim. The amount of wrist set going back could be a variable in your problem. However, I wouldn't think a big culprit. There are tons of players that lack wrist set that create a good amount of lag. Nevertheless, the reason you don't have wrist set could be an issue. Grip pressure, tight wrist, etc. I would suggest work on keeping more supple wrist and try to use momentum change to your advantage. Take a look at the Start Downswing Before Completing Backswing in the Faults/Fixes Section Weight Shift. Understand the weight transfer, but how the shift will help with lag.
July 22, 2014
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Earl
WHAT IS THE LEFT ARM DOING DURING THIS SEQUENCE? I THOUGHT THE LEFT ARM DID MOST OF THE WORK?
July 20, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
The left arm is still working. The pulling side will still be in control. Both arms have a job in the golf swing. This video is for people who are very right side dominant and need to teach how the right arm will work. To get over the pushing hurdle.
July 20, 2014
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Earl
IS THIS THE SAME SWING FOR THE DRIVER?
July 20, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Yes, Greg it is the same.
July 20, 2014
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Ola
Hi guys great video! I've been working on the pullingmotion earlier instead of the pushing motion this kind of speaks against that. Now i should pull the right arm again which I've tried not to do. Tnx Ola
June 30, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Ola. This is for the feeling of what the right arm will be doing. You want the pull from the left side on the downswing. However, some players are very dominant with their right side and need to feel what the right arm should be doing. Keep the focus on the left. But, understand this is how the right arm is traveling to maintain the lag.
June 30, 2014
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JACK
Great video on scapular rotation and great video on lag. How, exactly do I post my swing using the iPhone video? Jack
June 20, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Jack. Just copy the video files from your phone to your computer and upload it from there. Click the Contact Us link at the bottom of the page. Customer Support will be happy to assist you.
June 20, 2014
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patrick14
It seems that if I keep my hands higher at my right thigh I seem to compress the ball a little better. It almost feels like I'm carrying the handle of the club to this point. Is this the right feel
May 31, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Patrick, just make sure that when you start doing it a full speed, that it's just not a feel of carrying the handle. But, all the proper muscles engaged to sequence the downswing move to retain the lag.
May 31, 2014
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James
What is the best way to keep the shoulders shut and or passive? I have worked on this for a long time and have never been able to keep them from spinning open and getting the club stuck behind them and flip into impact.
May 19, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey James, this is a common problem and is generally caused by a ton or right side dominance. I would work on getting the top of the swing, take the right hand off the club, and the use the left side of the body (obliques) to rotate the torso as the left arm falls and swings through the hitting area. Then gradually start to add the right arm back to the mix very lightly and hang onto the club a bit longer each time you get the correct feeling. You can also try and keep the back to the target as long as possible and allow the hands and arms to fall straight down as you are pulling from the left side. Good luck.
May 19, 2014
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jason
I watched the second half of the video and it seems like working on pulling my right arm down and keeping my shoulders shut might be a good place to start. Any other videos or swing thoughts would be appreciated.
April 22, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Thats a good starting point. I would take a look at basic program downswing video and then sequencing the downswing so that you understand all of the rest of the moving parts so that you dont just get arm involved.
April 22, 2014
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jason
I have this same issue. It seems to be getting better but at impact my hands are slightly ahead of the club head and shaft is pretty well vertical. I would like to get them up near my left leg at impact. Any specific drills for this?
April 22, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
5 minutes to a perfect release, master it, then look at the 9 to 3 lag and speed building drill.
April 22, 2014
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Ronnie
it seems no matter how much I try I cannot get distance with my irons, I work hard on the impact area, but I believe my hand speed is to slow. I am 60 yrs old, and have a constant hand speed of around 70-75 mph. Is this my distance problem? Thanks Ron
April 19, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Ronnie, lag and release are critical to club head speed along with making sure that body has been used effectively to build power during the move. I would focus on making sure you are getting as much out of the body as you can first and then come back to lag and release as soon as you have nailed all of that down. Sorry for the delay in response. We will be much quicker about this moving forward.
April 21, 2014
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brian
Where should the club be when it gets back to parallel to the ground? On the toe line? And how extended should right elbow be at this point? When I do this drill and put the shaft on the toe line, sometimes the strikes get a bit heely, so I want to make sure it is the correct position and that something else is causing the strike to be a bit off.
April 7, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Brian, when the club is working into the hitting area and is parallel to the ground, it will be working down the toe line. the right elbow should still have flexion and should be getting ready to release just after this point as outlined in 5 minutes to a perfect release. We are still working to get that video up for you at the moment.
April 7, 2014

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