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 ...

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 a 4-Step Sequence that will teach you how to become a "Lag Monster!" Reshape your golf swing to make lag your primary speed source!

  • Work with each arm separately to reshape the golf swing for lag
  • Each arm will relearn how to swing the club correctly, from backswing to follow through
  • Use an impact bag with each arm to focus on form at impact
  • Swinging freely, check that the divot is bottoming out consistently for each arm
  • Add a ball in front of the impact bag with each arm, then work on hitting balls without the bag
  • Introduce the right arm back into the left arm's swing as a "passenger" at first, and vice versa

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Kyaw Thet
Hi Craig, Based on my current status, do I need to train my right arm independently?
January 6, 2021
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Kyaw. I don't believe so. But, a few trail arm drills will not hurt you.
January 6, 2021
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Fred
Do you get the same amount of lag with the driver?
November 28, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Fred. You will still have a lag angle with the driver. Some players however due to the wider arc of the swing may not have as much.
November 30, 2020
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Mohnishkumar
Hii Craig, hope u r doing well,as Chuck said in the video before moving to the takeaway,back swing and downswing stuff,you should train your each arms separately,so right now I'm working on my weight shift by following the drills.So my question is that should I do the reshaping your swing drill first or should I master my weight shift first.
September 15, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Mohnishkumar. Master the weight shift/body movement first.
September 15, 2019
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David
Should my left wrist cup, bow or stay flat during the down cock movement? Actually I have the same question for my right wrist?? In this and the down cock videos it looks like Chucks left wrist bows a bit to me.
September 13, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello David. The trail wrist will tend to hinge back on itself a little. The lead wrist from setup all the way to release is losing cupping. As you downcock the lead wrist will be flat and start to gradually get more into a bowed position the closer you get into the strike.
September 13, 2019
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Michael
As I work thru this drill all seems good till I add the right hand in it feels good bit I catch the ball toward the toe is my over the top tendances doing this for
June 15, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Michael. Exactly. You need to shy away from releasing it early and shoulder spinning. Keep the trail shoulder back longer and delay the release of the lag with the trail arm.
June 15, 2019
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Andre
In releasing the club, various videos make references that you need to "stop" the core while others suggest you "slowdown" the core. Understanding we are talking fractions of seconds, what and when do you feel resistance (stop or slowing) from the core to release the club? Is it simultaneous with posting up? Is it when you feel squared to the ball? Or should it happen fractionally sooner in the down swing?
March 18, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Andre. When you post the hips will clear and the deceleration process will start. The body will decelerate and the club will accelerate. A good way to practice the sequence and stalling of the body without spinning chest would be Play the Best Golf of Your Life in 6 Weeks 4 of 6 Video and Arms vs Body Release will delve more into the subject. Also, Rotary Golf Downswing Overview.
March 18, 2019
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Andre
Makes sense. This eliminates all the other options and variables. Very helpful Craig. Thank you
March 18, 2019
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Robin
What is wrong when i do the one arm backswing, then the weight shift, and then turn the arm of, it just seem to go pretty hard into the ground in front of the ball on a too steep angoe of attack
March 1, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Robin. I would check thumb push and release. Take a look at the Frisbee Drill and Left Hand Release Drill. Also, Angle of Attack Video. The release will inherently shallow out the path through the strike.
March 1, 2019
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Pete comstock
I just received my new impact bag and stuffed it with towels. I was following your drills, left hand, right hand and then both hands when the bottom seem on the bag split. I spent big $ to not get through your drills once. Please advise what to do about this. Pete Comstock
February 1, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Pete. I am going to Contact Customer Service for you. Apologize for the issue.
February 4, 2019
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Phil
This is a great drill for teaching the L side to control the downswing. However It's very hard to have the R wrist "snap" the club down without it causing the R arm to take over. It seems to go against the whole Vijay swing, and whenever its part of my swing thoughts I lose a lot of lag. If lag and big muscles generate most of the clubhead speed, seems like this idea is low reward/ hi risk. Maybe I am mis-interpreting? Phil
January 24, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Phil. Both arms have a role in the swing. You are correct that you don't want the trail taking over the lead. But, some players need to retrain their improper trail arm motion. Also, players with excessive lag can use a little trail push to help get rid of some angle. The lead side however must always stay in control.
January 25, 2019
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Scott
Craig. What do you think about myself going through this set of drills while working on core rotation rather then the 9:3? Seems like this might be a good way to get a feel for the release without getting too technical at this stage? I’m fine either way.
January 24, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Scott. The drill above is great to turn the brain off for lag and sequencing. However, after seeing your 9 to 3. Let's stick with that clean up right now. Cause you don't have that far to go before you get the thumbs up.
January 24, 2019
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Jeff
How much should the impact bag weigh for optimal resistance? And, is it okay to put something of weight in front of impact bag so it doesn’t move all around - or does that defeat the purpose of the exercise?
January 6, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jeff. You may place something in front to keep it from moving. Most people fill the bag with old towels, or sheets. No need for it to be a lead weight. There isn't an optimal weight. Just something soft, but enough to create resistance.
January 7, 2019
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Jeff
Training the arms independently with this progression/drill has me taking the club back more with my arms instead of my core/obliques. Thoughts on that?
January 7, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jeff. You may still be using core/obliques. Weight shift and rotation will help you reach the top making it more effortless. You could be allowing for momentum to help you. Take a look at Proper Muscle Activation and My Golf Backswing Secrets Video.
January 8, 2019
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Jeff
So still use core/obliques/weight shift/rotation to take it back with this drill. Just easy to push/pull with each corresponding arm I’m training based on nature of the drill. Also if I’m left- handed and play golf right-handed, I should train my trail arm (right) more seeing it is weaker arm - correct?
January 8, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jeff. Definitely spend more time training your right arm. Yes, still use weight/core etc. to take the club back. It is easier to get off kilter with push. But, the primary focus of the drill is for lag. Just be aware to not shove the arms across the body.
January 8, 2019
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Ronan
Hi, Nice video. But i'm at the moment working on my reps for core rotation, and working on my takeaway, should i keep doing so or work a bit on this video (its winter time!) and come back to step 2 after? Ronan
January 1, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Ronan. I would focus more on Step 2 first and then come back to creating more lag. Work on the swing from the inside out. Once, you can do Step 2 without thought correctly you can revisit.
January 2, 2019
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Scott
I like this video and I am trying to make sense of it compared to the drill work for weight shift (lesson 1) which there is primary focus on using the left (less dominant side) to make the swing. I have always had not issue swinging with just my left hand but it is when my right hand gets involved that "the hitting" begins. What I noticed after about 30 reps with just the right hand swing is that when I brought both hands together I felt like I was releasing the club with much more ease (not competing forces) and almost no grip movement during the release. Is there value in performing my Step 1 drills as follows: Left only, right only and both hands on the club? Thanks, Scott M.
March 15, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Scott. Both arms have a role in the swing. Most players do not need to train their trail hand because it is already too active. With Step 1, I would stick primarily with lead until the lead arm is dominant. The further down the road you get with RST you will be able to start adding back the trail hand. For the drill above working on the lag. You may still use both.
March 15, 2018
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Duncan
Just watched this after watching "over view of the downswing" which stressed weight shift (OK common to both), rotating hips and posting up - using big muscles and with arms and hands quiet. Now this video seems to be saying: concentrate on arms and hands and don't rotate - or at least not as a conscious move - just allow club to pull you through! Confused.
March 7, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Duncan. This is to help get the feeling of training the wrists (lag). You need to do all of the above pieces you listed. This is solely focusing on feeling the change of direction with weight shift and lag increase.
March 7, 2018
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Duncan
Still confused Craig: It's the rotating hips on downswing I need to be clear about: do it as a conscious part of swing (I've heard people say "clear the hips out of the way") or have a feeling of been square at impact only rotating - not as a conscious move - after impact as arms pull you through?
March 8, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Duncan. Sorry for the confusion. Happy to help until it is crystal clear for you. You need to post up into impact to clear the hips and fully contract the lead glute (You Hit the Golf Ball with Your Legs - Step 2 - Core Rotation). After impact the momentum of the release will pull you through.
March 8, 2018
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michael
Chuck, Great video. I need your help . I am a lefty, 8-9 handicap. My big problem is my lead arm - left - either breaks down or chicken-wing and I do not get extension through my impact to finish. My instructor wants me to focus on half-swings and trying to maintain a bowed wrist through finish half-way into the air and in front of me. This is difficult and I am wondering if there is a better drill to achieve a straight arm/flat wrist and extension with my left arm through impact? Thank you Michael in Virginia
March 2, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Michael. Trail side takeover and improper release are the culprits for the chicken wing. Take a look at a few videos for me. Side Bend in the Golf Downswing, 5 Minutes to the Perfect Release, and Cure Chicken Wing.
March 2, 2018
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michael
Craig, Thank you so much have watched 5 minutes to Perfect Release and will go back to work on drills. The Side Bend video is fantastic - makes so much sense and the insight on keeping the right shoulder back is so clear and easy to understand. Few teachers present these concepts - if they did golf instruction would improve greatly. Thank you
March 2, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Michael. You're welcome and thanks for the compliments.
March 2, 2018
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michael
Craig, Can you also suggest similar videos for driver - when I am driving it poorly I tend to jam myself and swing gets short and cut off - no extension. Thanks, Michael
March 2, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Michael. One swing for all shots. Only need setup adjustments. Problem will be the same as with the irons. Make sure you adjust setup though (Proper Tee Height Video).
March 2, 2018
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Diane
Hi Chuck, this video is awesome. A complete beginner, I have been learning rotary swing for some months now. At first I really struggled with weight shift and reverse pivot. I got over that and could hit balls reasonably well, but was seeing no improvement and realised I needed to master core rotation and stop swinging with my arms. At Christmas I invested in an Orange whip and impact bag and I have been working with this video to just experience the overall swing movement. I had tried single hand swinging at various times last year, and even with a pitching wedge it was a struggle to swing one handed - I now realise that was because I wasn't on-plane. Now I can confidently single-hand swing with each hand and finally get the club to release. With the core rotation in place all I have to do is hold on to the club and as you say it pulls me round! Honestly never thought I would get this at one point. I will continue practising with this great drill.
February 25, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Diane. Thanks so much. We really appreciate your positive post about some RST Swing Rebuilding Success. Keep ingraining proper reps. It will continue to get better and better.
February 26, 2018
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Pete
Great video as I am very right side dominant. I find when swinging right arm only, I frequently hit a hard pull to the left. What am I doing wrong?
February 24, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Peter. Sounds like you over rotate the arm manually will some lack of lag. Take a look at How Swing Speed Affects Compression. Stabilize the trail arm movement.
February 24, 2018
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Mark
I have been working slowly thru the RTS program for the last 6 weeks, have over 10,000 reps in and have just begun the "add the trailing arm" videos. My setup has definitely improved and is consistent for the first time in my life. The rotation and takeaway drills, I feel, are going really well. But, when you sent out the email this weekend with this "reshaping" video, it was very timely for me. I have always had a super-dominant right side swing. I have been doing fine with the left side work, but as soon as I add the right hand it still was all falling apart. But, the "reshaping" video that emphasized a more wholistic look at the swing came at the right time for me. And, I had never before tried to train the right hand all by itself. It is a bit counter intuitive to train the right hand, when I need to dial it way back...but boy did it make a difference. After just a few practice sessions I played today and shot in the 70's for the first time in 6 months. More importantly, about 50% of the shots I hit, I achieved great lag and a solid release for maybe the first time ever. Lots to work on, but very excited to keep at it! Thanks so much for the great way you have put this all together!
February 19, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Mark. Fantastic. Great to hear the progress. Both arms have a role in the swing. If the lead side is mastered. No issue with doing some trail arm training to get it under control.
February 19, 2018
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Colin
I've been trying to increase lag as well as trying to shallow my swing. Irons and hybrids are fine but when I try shallow the driver I get lots of game losing hooks. I've read somewhere on the site what's likely to be the cause of this issue but can't remember in which it was mentioned. If I try to video it'll go straight! Any ideas?
February 17, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Colin. Typically, the hook is being over dominant with the trail hand through the release and improper lead wrist motions. Take a look at the 2 Finger Release Drill.
February 17, 2018
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Colin
You may be right but it's driver related and only happens when swallowing the club in the backswing.
February 17, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Colin. Make sure you make setup adjustments (Proper Tee Height Video). Also, if you get too shallow (stuck) you will overuse the trail arm to help fire your lag leading to a flip hook.
February 17, 2018
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Colin
Any chance of turning off this double spacing in comments - they're so much more difficult to read?
February 17, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Colin. I can ask, but not able to do that from my end.
February 17, 2018
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Caleb
You mentioned to turn off the left shoulder, to let gravity take over, so the left shoulder should not pull? Where does the pull pull come in and where should I feel the pull come from? Meaning should I feel like I am pulling my hand or from the shoulder joint? Or no pull at all?
September 30, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Caleb. It is a blend of using gravity and the pull from the lead lat/obliques. The lead lat about halfway down will pull a little to bring the arms in front of the body. But, it isn't a big pull or yank. A gradual blend of using gravity and a little pull. You will tend to feel like it is pulling from the last three fingers of the lead hand.
October 1, 2017
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Caleb
cool, that's what I thought
October 1, 2017
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William
Hi guys, did chuck ever put up the video on the site talking about : "turning the shoulder muscle off and letting gravity give you speed, and if so which video is it? Thanks. Also, I must have watched this video 50 times and it seems I pick up something new every time. Fantastic video for a right arm dominant guy like myself. My question is if Gravity is the force we want to use for the first 3/4 or so of the downswing, then why do tour players have faster swing speeds than me, since Gravity is the same for every one? I am not trying to say I expect to have the same swing speed as tour pros, rather I would just like to understand why I am so lousy. Thx very much.
September 4, 2017
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Chuck (Certified RST Instructor)
I had an injury that prevented me from completing the research. It's not all gravity, just more gravity assisted, but the hip rotation is critical for helping produce some of the speed and acceleration of the arms, then the throwing motion of the right arm can do the rest.
September 5, 2017
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William
Thx chuck. In this video, and in a couple of others dealing with creating lag, it seems you are emphasizing keeping the body more squared into impact (hips and shoulders 30-40 degrees open) rather than having the hips and shoulders wide open (almost 90 degrees for example). So just to be sure, when you say hip rotation is critical you still mean within the context of the hips being open 30-40 degrees at impact? So if I am understanding correctly, you are referring to the initial unwinding/weight shift of the hips and the transfer of that energy that is transferred into the arms, creating more arm speed. Is this on the right track? Thank you very much.
September 5, 2017
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Chuck (Certified RST Instructor)
Yes, you only need the hips 30-45 degrees open at impact.
September 5, 2017
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James
Will the whole left arm be shut off while the left oblique and hip rotation by posting up provide pull through and rotation through impact?
September 21, 2017
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don
Are you using your core to pull the club thru and working with gravity. Don
July 7, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Don. Yes, that would be correct.
July 8, 2017
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GC
In terms of body / effort / energy allocation for 1. distance and 2. accuracy how would I allocate between my right hand / arm and left hand / arm?
June 17, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello GC. For your swing a lot of the focus needs to stay on the lead arm. Your trail arm already over works. Let your trail arm be more reactionary. Even when you think you won't be using it. The trail arm will creep in. Let the lead be the vast majority of where your power and accuracy comes from.
June 17, 2017
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arthur john
When I keep my right to keep my left arm from bending my right arm /wrist becomes too dominant at impact causing cup in left wrist . It turns over ok but slightly cupped. When I become more competent with my video uses I will send it for a review. Any ideas except practice more with left arm only. Arthur john
May 6, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Arthur. I would practice letting the trail go to help it not interfere, but enough on at the top to maintain the width. Take a look at the Play the Best Golf of Your Life in 6 Weeks Series. Especially videos 3 of 6 and 4 of 6. They will help you with having trail on going back, but letting go coming down.
May 6, 2017
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arthur john
Thank you, very good. I watched them an am working my way through them properly. I can see my left wrist bowed at impact but it cups just after and I am not getting enough forward shaft lean. I will send review when I become more efficient with the tools. A.john
May 7, 2017
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Christopher
Awesome video! Watched it last night and helped a lot with my round, even though I have loads of reps to do, just to understand the mechanics of the swing (and how right hand dominant I've been) helped a lot. Is there a good way to try to prevent uncocking the wrists too early? I am trying to avoid pushing into the club with my left thumb on the club (which is how I've always started my downswing, causing a lack of power as my wrists starting uncocking straight away). I think the issue is my left thumb naturally is pushing back against the weight of the club, especially at the top of the swing when the club is horizontal (and so the weight of the club is resting a lot on my left thumbs, so at the start of the downswing it is wanting to get rid of this pressure by pushing against the club grip if that makes sense!) Thanks again for the excellent video!
March 12, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Christopher. If there were a quick tip that stopped lead thumb pushing. We would be out of business . It takes lots of practice and awareness to not put undo pressure on the shaft and start the swing from the lower half. The more you concentrate on being relaxed, passive upper half and lower half leading the way. The less the thumb will push.
March 13, 2017
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Robert
Just so I understand you properly re: your right hand ping pong analogy-- at the bottom of the swing, are you covering the ball from a palm up to a palm down position, like you would if you hit an over hand spin shot in tennis? Thanks, Bob
February 7, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Bob. Yes, the trail hand will rotate over like a ping pong motion. Take a look at Right Arm Release in Golf Swing.
February 7, 2017
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Colin
I understand that these drills are mainly training the arms individually but I notice that you tend not to have axis tilt when demonstrating. As you stress the importance of axis tilt, do you think the drills should be done with or without axis tilt as the 'feel' (for me) is very different when it comes to a full playing swing (with axis tilt). By the way, my golf has improved considerably - I'm more consistent, hit it properly and generally know what I've done wrong when I hit a bad shot. I know some elements are not engrained as they should be but I'm enjoying golf again - Thanks
February 5, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Colin. Chuck has tilt in the video and you can easily see the secondary tilt in the downswing. Some axis tilt would help you train the proper move and blend it closer to the real swing. Glad to hear you are becoming more knowledgeable of your swing and improving.
February 5, 2017
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sambhu
Is it safe to infer that hitting with the right hand ( for a right handed golfer) , especially with 5 iron and up causes weak shots and blocks to the right?
January 16, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Sambhu. Yes, if the face remains to open. But, some players are strong enough to flip the trail hand over. Which would lead to more of a closed face and hook.
January 17, 2017
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Brian
Hello, Terrific instruction, I appreciate the push pull idea and the need to keep both arms relaxed or tension free. In the latter part of the drill Chuck showed the reintroduction of the right hand release for increased speed. Can you tell me just WHEN/WHERE the right hand/arm takes over and the left hand becomes the passenger?
January 8, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Brian. Ideally, the lead hand will be the driver all the way through the strike. The trail arm only adds a little power. To understand better what you need to do with the trail hand. Take a look at the Right Arm Release in the Golf Swing, Sledgehammer, and Throw the Ball Drill.
January 8, 2017
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Shane
When I swing without a ball on video I have desired lag angles when I go to hit the ball I cast too early. I can't figure out why been doing lag drills for months.
December 31, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Shane. You more than likely pick up the pace, or still try to hit at the ball too much. You need to forget about the ball for right now when placed in front of you. You have to let the ball get in the way of the motion. Focus on the swing mechanics and not the ball. I would suggest uploading a practice swing and ball swing to the online review portal. Let one of our instructors diagnose if there is a major issue.
January 2, 2017
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sambhu
Is Chuck using a 7 iron?
December 20, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Sambhu. Yes.
December 20, 2016
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Leslie John
I just joined & after watching Chuck's intro video I went out to try all those things, less the beg of tricks...FANTASTIC! I am 83 and have been playing since 1980 my lowest HC ...along time ago was 13 while I was still working (weekend golf only, little time for practice). Late last year I had two surgeries, the second open heart (won't bore you with details) Returning to golf this year was welcome change but for some reason never found my old swing, which may not have been the greatest but used to work. My swing speed reduced, less energy but fit. Changed all my clubs to min weight and swing weight I could handle. During the year tried stack & tilt & the "static" version of LAG with reverse K. None left me with a good feeling since the results on the course always changed too much. I went through the one handed exercises with& without balls, after which could not resist hitting some balls.The result was stunning, it was like dancing. I noticed that the balls were either straight or small curve to left, but sometimes a little too much to the left, due to my grip. On my RH the forth finger cannot be used to grip the club well enough to have a true neutral grip. I have to rotate it right & under, so that the last two fingers are resting on my left. I use a standard size grip but after this experience considering going back to the soft undersize (Winn). I tried it on my old club and works better. I probably do not have to explain, but just in case it is not clear; as soon as my RH become more active (stronger) balls start to go left, due probably by circumventing the flailing action, which is a NO NO. I'll have my grips changed (done it twice this year, once with oversized) and carry on. Regards Les
October 19, 2016
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Les, welcome to the RST family and thanks for submitting this post. Glad you are getting such great results and sounds like you are on a great track with your swing. Let us know if you need any assistance along the way and we will gladly help you out.
October 19, 2016
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Joseph
This is great but how do you get the downcock and the turning of the right arm into the bag (eventually into the ball). I can't quite get that sequence and I feel that's where the "lag" is hidden.
August 10, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Joseph. Focus more on the lead arm usage. Allow the trail arm to help preserve the lag and not fire it too soon. Take a look at the Frisbee Drill.
August 10, 2016
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Joseph
Hi, Thank You for this. Additional questions: 1. Does this take longer with a Driver - with my 7 iron I was generating 90 MPH, with my Driver it was 100 MPH - I feel the lag generate better with the iron than the driver. My 7 iron was 80 previously. Less effort 2. How often should I do this drill. I start doing it for about 2 hours - working hard to get the feel (lol) and muscle memory
August 10, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Joseph. It might take a little longer with the driver because most players like throwing the longer club from the top. For every practice session your goal is to get 100 minimum quality reps to start the process of learning and neuromuscular training. After about a 1000 you should be pretty proficient. 3000-5000 to master.
August 10, 2016
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Joseph
Thanks great information. Is the "feeling" when holding lag that the butt end of the club comes down near your left quad as your "squatting" in the downswing and then releasing with adding that little whipping motion during the rolling of the arms? Regards,
August 11, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Joseph. You should feel an increase in wrist set and that the lag is maintained well into the trail thigh. You will feel whipping motion by allowing the lead wrist to release (Left Hand Release Drill). Take a look at the 4 Steps Lag Builder Video for follow up information.
August 11, 2016
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Andy
Very interesting comparison between swinging a golf club and swinging a ping pong paddle. I didn't realize that your wrists accounted for more than half of your club head speed generated. Ping pong paddle=6.5 oz, Golf Clubs=8.25 oz-10.75 oz
July 17, 2016
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Lots of efficient speed can be had through leverage!!!!
July 19, 2016
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Bunsun
I've been working hard on getting more lag the correct way and it's working; however, I now have a most unusual problem for me - hitting the ball too high. I've spent a long life time as a relatively low ball hitter and now it's the reverse. I feel like I'm losing distance due to the increased height. Any thoughts on how I can lower the ball flight and still keep and release the lag? (My ball flight is usually very straight and the higher ball flight is with most all clubs.) Love the site!!!
June 29, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Bunsun. Take a look at the Exaggerated Hands Ahead and the Knuckles Down Drill. Thanks for the compliments of the site. Use that new found lag and get to that compressed impact position.
June 30, 2016
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Skyler
Hey Craig. When I'm just doing a 3/4 backswing for a pitch, do I still need to create that same lag? I'd have to bend my wrists earlier on the backswing. I still struggle with FAT SHOTS/Chunking on 1/2 to 3/4 swings. All arms? thanks
April 18, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Skyler. Take a look at Perfect Pitch Shot Setup and Perfect Pitch Shot Technique. There isn't a need to create a ton of lag on a pitch because it will be more geared towards finesse than overall power. You don't want to cast by any means, but a big down cock is not required. You will tend to set the wrists a little quicker on a pitch and it will feel a little more shoulder/arms/hands driven.
April 19, 2016
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Christoph
when I swing left hand only, the impact on the ground (if I manage to hit the ground, because usually with the left hand only the plane tends to be quite shallow) is much farther away from the body then with the right hand on the club. since the right hand grips lower than the left, it works kind of like an "extension brake", keeping the club on the same distance to the body as at setup. but with the left arm only, during the downswing the weight of the club head pulls away from the body (centrifugal force?) and therefore makes my left arm fully extend, which is longer than the natural arm hang at setup. However, in the videos on the site when Chuck and the others swing with the left arm only, the movement of the club is exactly the same as with both hands. what am I doing wrong?? and what do I need to focus on in order to fix this?
April 3, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Christoph. Yes, the Centrifugal Force is what is pushing away from the body with the lead arm. I think the issue is in the release. It sounds like you are hanging on to the energy too long. You have to release the angle at some point to keep the arm from continuing through. Work on the Perfect Impact Part One and the Vijay Release Drill. Once, the club releases better gradually make it longer back into the motion described here.
April 3, 2016
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Jason
the weight shift felt during the left arm only drill.......... is the the same feeling I am looking to have when both arms are used?
March 5, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jason. Yes. You need to feel the weight shift initiate the downswing.
March 5, 2016
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Michael
If you find that your swing is not bottoming out at the same location each time what might be the possible issues that we can address and utilize the appropriate drills.
February 29, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Michael. Weight Shift and Lead Arm Pull. Use the Taking a Divot Video to balance a good weight shift and shaft lean to have a consistent downward strike. Also, the Frisbee Drill for good weight shift, lag and sequence into the strike.
February 29, 2016
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gary
Have watched this video 25 times and this is the reason I joined. Best video on the internet by far. This one and 5 minutes to a perfect release will change your game. Great job RST!!!
February 2, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Gary. Thanks for the compliments of the site. We agree. This is one of the most important videos on the site.
February 2, 2016
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Greg
So at the top of the backswing the left arm just drops with no effort to rotate the shoulders open, and the weight shift causes the arm to drop. Is that correct? If you let the arm drop from the top then its direction is somewhat across the target line with the release squaring the club face to the target line. Correct?
January 11, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Greg. You use weight shift, gravity and the lead arm to start bringing the club down without spinning the shoulders (Winter Downswing Video - How to Swing from the Ground Up Video). The release will square the club face to the target line. However, on the way down it should be pointed a little more away from the target line. Shallowing out or coming a little more from the inside plane. LADD Video.
January 12, 2016
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Rob
Hi guys. I am working on holding my lag in my downswing. At 9:50 in the video, you mention not trying to pull my arms hard to start the downswing. This is something I have always done and I have never been able to hold any lag. So, as I shift my weight to my left side and squat to square, I should just let my arms be passive and let gravity take them down? Do I then accelerate my swing , by pulling with the left arm, as I get near impact? -Rob
December 31, 2015
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Steven (Certified RST Instructor)
Rob-You're exactly correct. As your shifting your weight left gravity will mainly pull the arms down and then you can pull with the left and fire with the right at impact. But the first move is gravity taking over and letting your arms fall.
December 31, 2015
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Gavin
Hi, great video! I am interested to know what sensation I should have in the down swing. You mention that the right arm adds speed to the swing but also that the left side is the dominant side. Also pushing with her right side can cause casting which is something I suffer with. I hope this makes sense Regards Gavin
December 17, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Gavin. You should have a good sensation of weight shift and swinging the lead arm. The vast majority of players need to feel their trail side is turned of in the downswing. Take a look at the Frisbee Drill and the Winter Golf Program Downswing Video to help with the proper sensation and turning the trail side off.
December 17, 2015
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Gary
Question - in the downswing does the left arm just drop down in front as if its just falling in front of the body from the top? Meaning just dropping down parellel to the body ? If your not sure kf my question please ask for clarity as this is very important to me because i thought the arms swing away from the body to create a in to put plane? Thank you for your help
November 17, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Gary. If I am gathering the question properly. When shifting to the lead side and starting the move down. It will feel like the lead arm is falling to the parallel positioning. Your goal isn't to create a big in to out plane. But, more or less have a good zeroed path into impact.
November 17, 2015
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Gary
I guess what I am trying to say is the plane of the arms close to the body by letting them fall by gravity? Hard question to ask but I am trying to understand if the arms just fall in front of the chest ?
November 17, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Gary. The fall of the arms help keep the club on plane. The lead lat is the primary muscle to pull the arms in front of the body. You can see the lead arm's main movements in the LADD Video.
November 17, 2015
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Gary
Ok so its a combination of gravity and the lead lat? Gravity keeps it pn plane while the lead lat pulls it through? So the arms do nothing but fall while the lead lat pulls it through? This is important to know as i have a tendency to want to pull the club down from the top and through the hitting zone with my arms. Please confirm this thank you in advance
November 17, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Gary. Yes. Combination of gravity and lead lat. If you keep rotating through the shot or just pull the arms the club will never release. Left Hand Release Drill Video.
November 17, 2015
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Gary
Thanks - question - after practicing it with and without the bag I feel that from the top it now feels as if the lats are pulling the club and the arms are dropping naturally into the impact zone. The club seems to be squaring itself up by the gravitational pull of the lats and rotation of the body through the impact zone and beyond. Its as if the hands are just going along for the ride by them holding on to the club. Is this the entire correct feeling I should be experiencing? Thanks
November 18, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Gary. I like how you feel the simplicity of the motion with gravity and pull. However, the only thing you might want to keep in check is that the club is squaring up due to wrist rotation and not the body. Ultimately, you want the wrist rotation to freely release the energy and rotate. The body doesn't square up the club. If you are feeling the rotation as in the Vijay Release Drill or Left Hand Release Drill. All should be well.
November 18, 2015
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Gary
Question - how many reps of each drill per day and for what duration? Thank you
November 17, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Gary. If you could get about 100 good reps a day with each arm. Once, you hit a thousand you will be pretty proficient at creating the proper motion. Then, use both arms following the same protocol and be on your way to a great swing.
November 17, 2015
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Gary
Ok so you are saying only do one arm drills at 100 per each arm per day until both arms are familiar with the move or feels coordinated then move on to the 2 arms segment?
November 17, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Gary. Yes. Start small with training specific arms and gaining good coordination. Then, move to a blended two arm motion.
November 17, 2015
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mark
Hi just starting out wth RST and a couple of points : 1. I'm starting with the rebuilding for lag drills/hitting balls with the left arm only. Even short swings with left arm only I'm pretty useless with inconsistent and poor contact. Does this indicate I'm right arm dominant in normal swings or just have poor coordination - I'm 10 handicap ? 2. There doesn't seem to be a specific RST swing other than generating more lag and being left arm dominant, and appears to be more of a collection of videos on all aspects rather than a systematic step by step approach ? Have I missed something ? Loads of great content and tools though Mark
November 16, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Mark. The step by step approach to rebuilding the swing will be the 5 Minute Series in each section. The other content is to help with pitfalls or specific areas you may be struggling with. It sounds like you are very right side dominant. It will take time for the left hand to become coordinated. If your sole focus is only on building lag. Start with this video. Understand the goals and shape of the swing. Use in conjunction with the Frisbee Drill, Wide Narrow Wide, Key to Creating Lag and the Impact Series (Specifically Part 4).
November 17, 2015
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mark
Great thanks Craig
November 17, 2015
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Gary
Mark if its any help I feel somewhat the same. Alot of great information if your brain functions in the manner they teach it. I found myself jumpinh around video to video and finally i decided to go righg to the beginning which is the intro page. Work from there ir eventually puts you on track. I do agree that the system could use some A-Z structure to make things simpler. I do hope they get there as there is a ton of valuable info here. The other recommendation I made was a step by step practice schedule for people to follow at all levels. Hope it helps Gary
November 17, 2015
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Gary
Question - I am somewhat confused by what the arms are suppose to do in the swing. Please explain Backswing Are the arms swung back and elevated with the muscles in the arms or are they moved by the shoulders or turn of the body as it rotates back? Are the arms suppose to feel dead and hanging or explain what the feeling is? Downswing Do the arms drop naturally from the top meaning gravity alone or are they helped along by the muscles in the shoulders, arms or torso? I need to understand am I suppose to help the arms into the impact zone or just let them drop and swing freely? Also is the feeling as if they drop as the head stays back and the head remains back until after impact? Thanks Gary It seems that in many videos it talked about the arms falling naturally by gravity. Clarification would be helpful as to the sequence and feel.
November 16, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Gary. In the backswing, the arms arm moved with the rotation of the body and elevated vertically to the top. (Role of the Right Arm Video and Understanding Shoulder Elevation/4 Square Drill) The arms should feel relaxed and ready to engage. The arms on the way down are brought down by a blend of gravity and pull from the lead arm. The head will move a little forward in the downswing, but stay behind the ball. 5 Minutes to the Perfect Downswing.
November 16, 2015
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Gary
This explanation doesnt really answer my questions. I asked if the arms help the backswing and downswing at all or do they simply hold the club and are moved by other body parts? Telling me gravity does not help unless its all gravity. If the left arm assists what percentage and at what point?
November 16, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Gary. What I was trying to state above "the arms are moved with the rotation of the body" was in response to your question of "are the arms swung back or are the moved by the shoulders or turn of the body as it rotates back." The arms/hands hold the club. The primary horizontal motion in the swing is created by the body. The vertical motion is created by the arms. The arms won't swing the club back other than create up and down (vertical movement). Other than the folding of the trail arm which will bring the lead arm slightly across centerline. You don't won't to try and swing the arms to create momentum for a proper backswing. That's moving the club to move the body, not vice versa. The gravity and pull denomination will change throughout the downswing. You will use a little pull from the lead arm and weight shift to increase the wrist angle and start bringing the arms down. The further you move in the downswing the more the lead lat will be dominating to pull the arms back in front of the chest/body into the release position. A little pull from the start to get the change of direction and the pull will increase in dominance over gravity the closer you get to the ball.
November 16, 2015
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Gary
Ok now we are getting closer. So the arms only are used for elevation in the backswing which is minimal. In the downswing gravity is prevelant at the start of the downswing as the hips shift laterally and once the hips clear the left arm takes over and moves in front of the body as the shoulders stay square? Once the club drops into the impact zone the lag is then released and the club is extended into the impact zone by gravity, centrifugal force which creates the release. Does this sound correct?
November 16, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Gary. The sequencing and notes sound correct to me.
November 16, 2015
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Gary
Question - hello it appears that Chucks head is moving laterally/turning during the backswing. is this ok to allow your head to move off the ball as long as the body doesn't sway with it? For some reason when I take the club back my head turns and moves off to the right. Is that ok? I noticed when watching Nicklaus his head moves back and turns very similar however he does this as part of his setup prior to the backswing. Does it matter as the way Chuck is displaying it in this video is a natural feeling for me? Thanks in advance Gary
November 16, 2015
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Steven (Certified RST Instructor)
Gary-there will always be a little lateral head movement but we strive to minimize that by using the push vs pull method, focusing on pulling. Try to not let it move during this drill by pull back in the backswing.
November 16, 2015
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Gary
Hello questions 1. How many reps and for what duration do you suggest I do the left and right arm drills? Is this something to do daily? how many reps etc. Please explain an appropriate amount of practice time for these drills before going to a full swing? Thanks Gary
November 15, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Gary. The goal for any practice section is to get 100 quality reps in. Once you get to about a thousand with each arm you will be pretty proficient at creating the move. Then, blend with both hands the same process.
November 16, 2015
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Reg
Hi, How Do I take the RST method to the golf course. At the moment, wanting to keep up with the other golfers, I find myself losing the sequencing of the RST method. I find myself standinding over the ball thinking, load back leg,pull left side to weight shift etc. Should I slow my swing to 50% and don't worry about hitting the ball a shorter distance ? And focus on sequencing ? Also focus on the 9 to 3 drill & Re Shape your swing for lag drill.
November 13, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Reg. On the course you need to just play golf. You can't over think and enjoy the round. Just pick one and/or at most two thoughts. It could be "load the glutes, pull lead arm, soft wrist, smooth tempo." Leave the swing work to the range. Little and simple focuses on the course. Rehearse in the practice swing. But, hit ball and target over the real one without major thought.
November 13, 2015
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Reg
Thanks Craig & Steven for your comments.
November 12, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
No problem. Here to help. Thanks.
November 12, 2015
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Reg
Hi, Is weight shift on the downswing just a natural reaction of the body, I find that I've been obsessing about weight shift when playing and have been hitting bad or inconsistent shots. The body seems to react on the downswing without even thinking about weight shift.
November 12, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Reg. Some players already shift their weight due to natural ability and coordination. You could be over doing the weight shift.
November 12, 2015
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Reg
Hi, Been to the driving range today, I seem to be hitting the ball to the left or even pushing the ball left. Feels as if I'm turning out of the swing. Should I be trying to keep my chest square at impact and let the momentum of the club bring me up to a finish position and should I be swinging more to 1 O'clock to stop hitting the ball left.
November 12, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Reg. You want to shy away from spinning the chest or shoulders open too much. They will be square at impact. Let the release and momentum carry you to a full follow through.
November 12, 2015
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Steven (Certified RST Instructor)
Reg- You can feel that your keeping your chest square at impact and let the momentum pull you up into the follow through. That is how we get there, just by momentum. and for pulling the ball left. pull more with the left arm or check out some lag/release videos. If you are pulling left there is a good chance that your losing lag and have an improper release.
November 12, 2015
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Reg
Hi, With regards to training the right hand. You said that you re-introduce your left hand lightly and then you can now really release the right hand into the bag. If your now releasing the right hand, would this not now lower the pivot point making the club shorter, hence less distance as you mentioned in the Vijay release drill. Reg.
November 9, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Reg. Yes, if you became a total right side hitter or swinger it would change the pivot point.
November 9, 2015
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Jeffrey
Hi. I'd like to piggyback on Gary's question below. My biggest swing issues come from being very right-side dominant. Patrick has been reviewing my swing videos for a while and has repeatedly advised me to work on this. I've finally taken his excellent advice and am making progress, doing hundreds of left arm only swings, then some with the right barely touching the club and being the passenger. My question is: Given my issues with too much right side, what should my eventual goal and swing thought be for my right arm? I assume it shouldn't always just be a passenger, as I need it for some speed/distance. Should I just think of it as "throwing the ball" or snapping as I get to my trail thigh (as in Golf Swing Release Drill Video)? I find that when I try to apply any speed from my right hand, that my left wrist hinges during my release (even though it's bowed/flat with knuckles down at impact), and I know that wrist is supposed to stay bowed or flat. Basically, I'm having a hard time finding a balance between using my right arm too much and being right side dominant (huge problem for me) and not using it enough and losing speed/distance (being a short hitter is also a big problem). Thanks for your input and all your great videos/instruction!!
September 27, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jeffrey. Thanks for the compliments of our site and instructors. You should think of it as the Golf Swing Release Drill. If you are over active with your right arm. You are probably still using him more than you think. More than 60% of your power comes from lag and release. If you are always losing it due to right side dominance. Master the left side first. You might lose a little speed in the beginning. But, will start to gain a lot of face awareness. Straight and in the fairway. Once, you can get the ball in play consistently and confident with a balanced swing. Patrick will help you add power with the right.
September 28, 2015
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gary
I have a hard time with both right and left hand are passengers one at a time but what is the feeling when both are part of the swing in the full swing? Also there are videos that talk of "knuckles under" as part of the release as well as the right forearm rotating over the left. Thanks, Gary
September 26, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Gary. When both are on the club. You should feel a good weight shift, pull from the lead arm and the right hand going along for the ride. You can learn how to better sync them up so the right hand can add a little more speed. Golf Swing Release Drill Video. But, the vast majority of players over use the right and the feeling of letting him follow works best.
September 26, 2015
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sambhu
All things being equal(good set up, back swing etc), does this video imply that by just bumping weight to the left AND( not implied by the video but in general known fact) keeping the head behind the ball.the arms would strike through the ball and gain velocity due to centrifugal force? So head behind the ball is a important condition?
September 11, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Sam. Yes, the head needs to remain behind the ball because it will help with velocity gain.
September 11, 2015
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Jason
is downcock passive created by weight transfer and a light grip? is that what "soft wrists mean" also, still confused about left arm chest relationship at address; if sitting on top of pec, shoulder protracts and you come out of box if sitting on true side of chest, is it too trapped to swing freely? any good visualizations for the correct left arm pec relationship at address?
September 10, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jason. Some players in the early going have to manually create downcock. However, the goal would be to have the wrist soft and using momentum change (weight shift and lead side pull) create the lag. The Golf Grip and Being Out of the Box, 5 Mins Perfect Setup, Gorilla Grip and Hinging from the Hips Video are your best bet to find that ideal left arm. Not completely on top or directly on side.
September 10, 2015
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sambhu
I had posted that there were too many videos on the site leading to confusion. But this is one of the best that really helps one build a swing from scratch. Could you suggest couple of other videos to add to this to make a complete package for a intermediate golfer( 10-16 handicap)? I don't mean to criticize and this is a honest query.
September 10, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Sam. For the downswing, this video combined with the 5 Minutes to a Perfect Downswing and 5 Minutes to a Perfect Release. You will be well on you way to a solid move into impact. They will help with weight shift, lag, sequencing, impact and release.
September 10, 2015
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Nick
When I hit the ball with left arm only, contact is fine but it always starts right and moves further right. I understand that we aren't trying to hit the ball perfectly, but is this an issue? When I use both arms things seem ok...
August 13, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Nick. It sounds like a lack of release and when you have the right hand on it helps square the club. Square up the club with the left, not the right. Left Hand Release Drill in the Downswing Section.
August 13, 2015
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Ravi
In working on the right arm only I seem to be grounding the club just before the ball almost every swing. What am I doing wrong?
August 8, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Ravi. The trail arm gets rid of lag. You are probably just losing it too soon. No major worries. To exaggerate maintaining the angle a little bit. Take a look at the Step by Step Right Arm Drills in the Advanced Downswing Section.
August 8, 2015
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Shane
My question is how many reps on average at each progression before moving on to the next step in the drill?because I have done this drill sequence a few times without any real noticeable change in my swing on video or even results in ballstriking. My last review I was told I need to just hit small left hand.only shots because of the lack of left hand pull in my downswing..pretty sure this drill will clean it all up for me but it seems like I just been running thru it too fast to gain any lasting improvement or too really re shape my swing .what are your thoughts?
August 7, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
It usually takes 100 good repetitions to start making a change and 3000-5000 to master. However, after about a 1000 you should start gaining some really good awareness for what you are doing.
August 7, 2015
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Mitchell
I'm trying to make sure I use this program in the right sequence. When doing this drill is ok to combine it with "how to swing from the ground up"?
August 3, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Mitchell. Yes, you need to understand how the arms work into the strike. No worries at all. This video is very key to the RST Sequence.
August 4, 2015
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Damien
Hello So if I understand this right after shifting weight you basically let your arms go and let them swing into impact using gravity. At impact you the actively release your right hand to add speed. You are not actively pulling your arms through
July 31, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Damien. Yes. You will use a blend of pull and gravity in the downswing, but you want to stay relaxed and release that energy at the ball. The right hand does add speed, but make sure your master the left hand control first (if right handed player).
July 31, 2015
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Damien
Hello Craig When I pull from the left i still seem to bring the club to far around to the left and open my shoulders up, which then results in a pull left or a bad duck hook with the driver. What am I doing wrong or how can I sequence so the pull actually takes the club more down the line or in to out??
August 1, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Damien. You need to stay in the shot more. Usually it is due to trail side push. The Long Arms Drill in the Advanced Downswing Section will help. If it is a lead side issue. Take a look at the LADD Video in the Downswing Section.
August 1, 2015
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larry
This is a great video for my swing faults. I over turn on the downswing causing loss of lag and my body gets out of position. However, I do not understand how to get in the one or two cheek position at impact with a quiet body. How does the momentum of the release open the hips 15 to 25 degrees? How does the body get turned and yet not consciously turn? I think my desire to get my hips open at impact is killing my swing. Thanks Larry
July 19, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Larry. The hips do need to be open at impact, but you want to do it through lead oblique pull versus trail hip push. To get in the correct positioning use the How to Swing from the Ground Up in the Introduction Section and the How the Lower Body Works in the Downswing Section.
July 19, 2015
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jeren
in right-arm only, left-arm only, and both arms drills, as well as on many shots on course, I hit behind the ball, sometimes a foot or so. Should I be straightening my left leg after shifting left to avoid grounding or is that a corrective that will cause me trouble as I build my stroke? Thanks!
July 16, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jeren. Straightening the lead leg will help clear some room for you and pull leverage from the ground. However, I still think the cause would be lack of shift and shaft lean at the strike. Take a look at the Taking a Divot Video in the Advanced Downswing Section to get the feel of the proper strike again.
July 17, 2015
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Brandon
Elbow pain? Wrist is relaxed but elbow hurts after a while of left-arm only releasing the club. Feels like I'm snapping a curve-ball, but with the left elbow instead of the right. What am I doing wrong?
July 7, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Brandon. Make sure your lead arm stay straight going back while doing the drill. I can see how allowing it to bend too much would lead to problems. Also, take a look at the Left Elbow Impact Alignments Video in the Advanced Downswing.
July 8, 2015
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david
What are your thoughts on David Leadbetter's A swing?
July 7, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello David. We had a lengthy discussion about this in one of the other forums. Here is a little summary of the discussion. One of the major reasons to not make a narrow or collapsed swing as is advocated in the A swing is muscle fiber recruitment. If you don't load a muscle you can't use it, that should be obvious. So, when you fold your arms and set your wrists to move the club to the top, there is no need to turn your core very much as the arms are doing the vast majority of the movement. Therefore, the primary power source has been shut off and the wrong muscles have been loaded in the wrong sequence. Imagine a baseball pitcher using just their arm to throw a ball and you can understand the detriment here in laymen's terms. It takes about 32 pounds of muscle mass to generate 100 mph of club head speed. Unless you're a body builder, you won't have that in just your shoulders and arms. But you will have it in your trunk. That's why RST and most all powerful golfers on the planet have a wide swing, it recruits more muscle fiber and loads them in the correct sequence so they can unwind in the correct sequence like I discussed in the Dumptruck and Drag Racer video.
July 7, 2015
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david
Thanks Craig. Would you please advise how I can access the forums you mentioned. Regards David
July 7, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello David. Under the Using Your Wrist For Speed Part 5. In this section Advanced.
July 7, 2015
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Pino
WOW! I am a chronic shanker at times. Training each armseparately taught me to stop over rotating the shoulders at impact. After an hour if training each arm my swing is faster more efficient and more balanced causing me to return the club to the address every time. No more hosel rockets. Thank you!
July 2, 2015
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Steven (Certified RST Instructor)
Pino- Glad to hear things are now going well. Keep up the good work.
July 2, 2015
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Pino
I should have not posted this. I was shanking everything after 4 holes completely embarrassing.
July 2, 2015
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Steven (Certified RST Instructor)
Pino-check out the how to cure your shanks video and also focus on a release drill to help square the face.
July 6, 2015
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Sanjay
I am looking for new Video Chuck sent to my email on I think 06/30/15 about release with left hand with lots of lag. Accidentally, I deleted it and can not find it. Can someone help me find that video? He also shows three armature who is able to have lag after drill. Thank you.
July 1, 2015
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Steven (Certified RST Instructor)
Sanjay- I believe that your talking about the Frisbee Drill in the weight shift section. Here it is: https://www.rotaryswing.com/videos/full-swing-basics/weight-shift/frisbee-drill-for-lag-and-golf-swing-weight-shift
July 2, 2015
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Sanjay
Got it. Thank you.
July 3, 2015
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Preston
In my last review, I was told by my instructor to kind of let the wrist fold on itself to keep the lag. Which way is it suppose to fold (thumb getting closer to the forearm ...the side of it? Or the knuckles getting closer to the top part of my forearm.? Also... he said to swing from my right shoulder socket? wouldn't that mean swing from the right side? I have a problem keeping my wrists and forearms soft, when i try to do that , my hands tend to come a part or off the club and in effort to keep and retain the lag, I shift way to far left.
June 28, 2015
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
Preston, like swinging a hammer, you want your thumb to move closer to the inside edge of the forearm, towards the pit of your elbow. You don't want to hinge your wrist, which can get you more lag, but hinging the wrist will get your club out of control and off plane. If your wrists and forearms aren't soft, then it's likely that you're gripping the club too hard. Loosen up that grip. It should feel like if you were to lighten it up any more, the club would fly out of your hands. That's why we have golf gloves, for extra grip, not to protect from blisters. R.J.
July 8, 2015
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Kevin
Where is the research Chuck is talking about : "turning the shoulder muscle off and letting gravity give you speed, which video is it? Thanks
June 14, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Kevin. The research is still a work in progress. We try to make sure we don't release any information unless we have 100% fact based research behind it. As soon as all of the information is processed to perfection. We will release it.
June 15, 2015
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Preston
In the video, Chuck says to basically turn the arms off and let gravity do the work. Is the only pulling in the downswing from the hip and oblique and none from the shoulder, arm or wrist. I am not sure how one would square up the clubface if there is no active movement in the arm or wrist to square the face at impact. Does the left wrist square up, bow, and maintain forward shaft lean at impact just because of gravity and a pull from the left side? I guess what I am saying is, does the weight shift, pull from the left hip and oblique automatically square the face up?
June 11, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Preston. You still need some pull from the lead arm. Most players over do using force in the downswing and not allowing help from gravity with lag. Weight shift, a little pull from the lead arm and gravity aid in increasing the angle. The lead wrist does square up the club. Take a look at the Taking a Divot in the Advanced Downswing Section to understand more about the shift, lag, and shaft lean at impact. Also, Left Hand Release in the Downswing Section.
June 11, 2015
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Ken
I have had 2 back surgeries and 20+ hand surgeries but still play to a 3 index. A problem for me is getting length in my backswing and because of that I've lost lag and distance. Would it be a good recommendation based on this lag video to "feel" more closed to the target at the top and let the loose arms gravity drop in front? Am I understanding the drill correctly. If so, I believe it is something I did pretty successfully years back. Thanks
July 6, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Ken. Yes, a good feeling would be the shoulders staying closed relative to the target and allowing for gravity/pull with lead arm to bring you in front.
July 6, 2015
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JONATHAN
My instructor made a comment about sending in video of me doing the drills. Does this mean i dont need to worry about sending in a full swing video, or do the instructors always like a full swing included? And does that mean all parts of the drill? there are a lot of "parts" to this particular video.
June 9, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jonathan. Myself and other instructors like to see the drills in reviews sometimes because we can check to make sure the practice is perfect. If you can splice together a full swing and practice that would work. But, if he wants the drill. Just upload the full drill with both hands from this video.
June 9, 2015
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George
This video has been recommended for me off and on for about 8 months. When I go through the drill progression, I think I am reasonably able to complete the first few parts (left arm only into impact bag and bottoming out at the same spot) as Chuck demonstrates. When it gets to hitting the ball into the impact bag, things go awry. When I swing left arm only into the bag with a ball in the way, I take very deep divots with big chunks of turf being taken out. With the right arm only, the ball isn't collected into the impact bag, but is usually sent dead right, missing the bag entirely. I probably have about 500+ reps or so with this drill and the same thing keeps happening. Any suggestions?
June 8, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Patterson. Is the deep divot with the lead arm before or after the ball? With the trail arm you are probably aren't allowing the face to rotate. But, that necessarily isn't a bad thing since we have focused on releasing the lead correctly. For right now with your swing lets just stick with that lead arm motion, but get it corrected.
June 9, 2015
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George
I'd say the divot is at the ball more than anything. Maybe a touch behind. Without the ball, my divots are shallower and bottom out pretty much at my lead foot
June 9, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
When the ball is there you aren't letting it get in the way. I hate to say that to sound too cliche'. But, you need to keep pulling and maintain lean. The only way to hit it fat with the lead arm is to fire the angle a little too soon and attempt to whack the ball (if weight has been shifted correctly and stacked). If without a ball there isn't an issue and then with a ball there is. The only thing that changed was the ball. Thats why you have to let the swing dictate the shot and steering the club into the ball.
June 9, 2015
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George
Ok got it. I have also noticed that at impact (into the bag) with either the left or the right, as well as both together, my shoulders are open to the target line, and I do feel like I'm pushing off my right foot. Could the feeling of keeping my back to the target be of some help?
June 9, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Yes, the feeling of the shoulders staying a little shut is good or back to target as you let arms work.
June 9, 2015
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George
I'm still having a tremendous amount of trouble with this drill. When I take my backswing to the top, shift, and let my arms drop, I am hitting the ground 6 inches to a foot behind the ball, both left hand only and both hands on the club. This is especially exaggerated with driver. When I try to hit balls after going through these drills, I either flip the right hand into impact and send my ball 30 yards left, or my left shoulder flies straight up and I hit a weak and high slice. Any suggestions?
June 14, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Patterson. Upload them on your next review. The only thing I can assume by what you are describing is you are allowing only for gravity (drop) and no pull at all.
June 14, 2015
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George
Upload me doing the drill, or hitting shots? What is the best video for getting the feeling of staying on top of the ball, or covering the ball? I think that is the best way to describe what I am feeling: a lack of covering the ball in the downswing and impact
June 15, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
If you can splice together both would be beneficial. To see the difference in the swing and drill. Taking a Divot Video, Knuckles Down, Level Shoulders, and Transition Drill all in the Advanced Downswing Section.
June 15, 2015
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Steve
James has me working on this drill to help me improve lag and stop scooping at the ball. My question comes from Chuck's saying in this video that there will be a "natural downcock if the left wrist stays supple" in this drill. When I do this drill, it takes much effort to maintain, much less increase, lag during the transition into the downswing. I feel like I'm fighting the weight of the club, so my left wrist isn't supple at all . Also, I'm a left-hander playing right-handed golf, so I'm struggling while using my dominant side. Can you suggest where I'm going wrong? Thanks, Steve.
June 5, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Steve. Your grip pressure may increase, but you need to remain soft in the wrist. If you can create a little angle just keep pulling with the lead arm. You don't need to force angle to maintain. Stay relaxed, but engaged. Take a look at Proper Muscle Activation in the Introduction Advanced Section and the Downcock Pump Drill in the Advanced Downswing Section for more help.
June 5, 2015
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Darran
Does anything change since i play golf left handed but i am right handed in everything else?
June 2, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Darran. No, but actually a good thing. If you play left handed, but naturally right handed. Lead arm dominance should be easier for you.
June 2, 2015
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David
I just recently joined this site and so far I like what I see. For the first time in a long time, I'm hopeful that I can actually improve my game.. Anyways, I'm getting ready to videotape my swing so I can upload it to the website. In the video, you said that you should start with the "Re-shape your golf swing for lag" before starting any of the other drills such as the takeaway or backswing drills.. I'm a little confused on where to start. Wait for the analysis from a RST instructor regarding my video or start with this video?
May 27, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello David. Overall, to start revamping the swing this video teaches you the concept of what we want to do into the strike. However, being new to the site I would focus on getting the correct setup and let your instructor choose a more advanced drill or video that you need to conquer.
May 27, 2015
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Shane
Ok.. so compared to my usual move this swing should feel more armsy so to speak ...also would the right arm sledgehammer video go together with this video?
May 20, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Yes, it will feel a little more armsy. Most players tend to over do the body motion getting in the way of the swing. The sledgehammer is good at getting rid of the trail side throw. Keep the trail shoulder more passive.
May 20, 2015
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Shane
I really like this video ..because I struggle with being a little on the flat side in the backswing from lead side push then getting stuck on the downswing and hitting a block or overotating from the right side from the top and hitting a pull or pull hook ...when I do this drill I immediately the feeling of the right hand and arm working more under with my shoulders seemING more close in the downswing more than they ever do in my real swing..how do I ingrained the feelings from this drill and am do I have the right feelings?
May 20, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Its sounds like your feelings are correct. Work through the process. Once, you can do both arms pretty consistently add both. Then, add with a ball into an impact bag. You will start to trust and ingrain the move.
May 20, 2015
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JONATHAN
I have been working for about 6 weeks on the take away and backswing and finally am in a good enough position that we are starting the downswing and this is the first video lesson recommended for me. Should i completely separate the drills, or is it ok to work on the take away and then incorporate this series? The site talks a lot about stacking, but this particular video makes it sound like i should perform the moves separately.
May 19, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jonathan. Give proper time for training. Start training separately. Once you get pretty adept at performing the shift with a little lag. Then, you can start to combine some motions.
May 19, 2015
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Charles
I am having very difficult time keeping my right hand passive. I get the concept and can get it during practice swing - but when I have the golf ball in front of me, my right hand seems to take over. I tried few other drills in the video but what is the best drill to keep my right hand passive during downswing?
May 19, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Charles. Its all bout awareness. Not easy. This video and the Proper Muscle Activation Video in this same section will probably be the best bet.
May 19, 2015
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Sergio
Hello. I've working on these lag drills for the last days, and I notice that in the excercises I can get a nice lag, swinging with one hand only or even with both, but when I make a real swing with a ball, the lag dissapears, as if my body doesn't remember the drills from minutes before. I tried to slow down, to hit a smash bag, but no success. Should I continue with the same drills until my body sometime starts doing the same during the real swing, or should I try something else? thanks in advance, regards.
May 17, 2015
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
Sergio, keep at the drills. Eventually, your body will be able to do it at full speed. But also push yourself, there are speeds between slow and full speed. When you feel like you have it doing it slowly, pick up the speed about 20% until you get it there, then pick up the pace again, and so on. Also, when you're trying to hit a ball, it's likely that you're getting tense, which will cause the wrists to uncock prematurely. Make sure your grip pressure is light and relieve yourself of all tension when you're trying to hit a ball. R.J.
May 17, 2015
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Randy
Hi guys. I've been using the site for a good while now to try and correct my bad flipping habits. I've made quite a bit of progress (see previous comments from me), but still fight the flip quite often. I could use some clarity / help on a couple of points with this video in combination with the 5 min to perfect release video and the Vijay drill video. 1. Does the left wrist really ever cup in the swing? I'm making good progress thinking about 'knuckles down' and so forth, but could use some help with a check on the release - at what point, if ever, does the left wrist cup in the release / follow through. 2. Is it bad to try to 'think' about ensuring that my left hand hinges / cocks at the top of my swing? I think that part of my flipping issue comes from not letting the wrist stay supple through takeaway / backswing. Thanks in advance for any thoughts. You guys are awesome. I tell everyone about this site.
May 15, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Randy. We appreciate the referrals and compliments. The lead wrist will begin to cup after the release. Or, once you pass the 3 o'clock position into the finish. There will be a re-hinge. You need wrist hinge/set in the golf swing at the top. It isn't bad to think "remember to set the wrist" as long as you don't try and overly hold the angle. (5 Mins to Perfect Backswing Pitfalls - Advanced Backswing) It will feel like flipping a coin over the trail shoulder. Also, Using the Wrist Efficiently Video in the Introduction Advanced Section.
May 16, 2015
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Randy
Craig - I think the backswing pitfalls video was a huge breakthrough. Tell me if this makes sense: I'm thinking that improper / lack of a true shoulder turn and keeping my arms in front of me would be a major contributor to why I get stuck behind. Once I started focusing on that, I saw in video that the lag and forward shaft lean suddenly became so much easier. I also started to hear the whipping sound I've been searching for. I'm Hoping this was the missing piece for me. Let me know if you have any comments in response. Otherwise, I thank you again.
May 18, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Randy. That makes perfect sense. When the arms travel too horizontally in the golf swing and get deep. Creating/maintaing lag is much harder. Being wide and in front is a major key to keep from rotation as being your only source of power. When the arms get deep the trail arm usually gets stuck coming down. Sounds like you are on the right track.
May 18, 2015
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Randy
Great help and great suggestions. I'll check them out for sure. Thank you again.
May 16, 2015
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Fred
I am fairly new to the RST site and also not that familiar with a lot of golf terminology. I was wondering if the RST instructors have put together a glossary of terms used in the various videos. It would be a great reference, if available, to better understand the description in the videos. An example would be Wrist Cock, or Hinging. If you have one available, please point me in that direction. If not, please consider developing one. Thx!
May 9, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Fred. To my knowledge we don't have one. Great suggestion though. We will put it in the think tank. However, for your wrist question. Chris has a great video called Using the Wrist Efficiently Video in the Introduction Advanced Section that covers a lot of terminology.
May 11, 2015
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Fred
Thx! Will take a look at that video. Another suggestion would be to include links to pertinent videos in the body of the Practice Points or Articles when appropriate. Right now, seems the only way to find related videos which aren't included in the group to the right, is to search for them. Adding direct links would be helpful.
May 11, 2015
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Miguel
Can irons that are too long make you hit lots of fat shots? And will this drill help me shallow my swing?
May 8, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Miguel. Yes, irons that are too long can lead to the club bottoming out too soon. This drill will help you shallow out the swing and add more angle. However, take a look at two more for me to master using the weight transfer and the lead arm more correctly to get on plane. Stop Coming Over the Top and the LADD Video in the Downswing Section. Both will help with steepness.
May 8, 2015
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Miguel
Ok thank you
May 8, 2015
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Jesse
I have been trying to address a persistent pulling problem with virtually all my shots, but more pronounced with my high irons. This past weekend a friend noticed that I wasn't shifting towards the front to initiate the downswing, which caused me to come into the ball from left to right [I'm a left-handed golfer], as evidenced by the direction of my divots. I started to consciously shift my hip towards the target to initiate the downswing, and this did straighten out my shots; however, as the round went on, I started getting very sore on my front hip from the shifting. I had this same experience when I tried to do the wide narrow wide drill as well. Can you advise how I can do this very critical move without aggravating/putting strain on my hip? Thanks!
May 4, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Jesse. You need to use the glute and hip properly. Shifting and pulling the lead oblique to pivot. Take a look at the Stomp Drill in the How the Lower Body Works Video in the Downswing Section.
May 4, 2015
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Jesse
Got it! Thanks for the prompt reply, Craig!
May 4, 2015
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Caleb
Chuck, Did you ever finish your research video on the gravity of the left drop?
May 2, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Caleb. Chuck has a ton of research on this topic and still compiling the information. We like to look at the swing very objectively and want to make certain for a fact the data and numbers are 100% correct .
May 4, 2015
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Greg
Hi any update on the gravity comment for related video's - skimmed thru comments since 2021 ( a lot . and this is the first I have seen ... Chuck's comment on 85% of Pro speed is gravity has my interest ( as the worlds slowest swing speed holder ) ... Thanks Greg
February 6, 2021
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Greg. I don't have any information right now. I know that a lot of the arms research has been completed. But, I don't know the details yet. Some of it is in the video : Arms Research Introduction.
February 6, 2021
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Caleb
Sounds good! Please let Chuck know that I can't thank him and his staff enough for all of the perfect instructions over the past 3 years (going on); it has gotten me from a 12.5 to a 7.2 index and the lowest of my life and I will be turning 65 next month!!!
May 4, 2015
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Nicolas
when we re-shape a swing to use the left arm or/and to improve the release, do we need to stop play at golf course because during a round of golf the old reflexes will comme back ? if we want to change the dominant side (right to left), may be we must stop to play golf on the course ? What is your opinion for that ? Thanks. Nico.
May 1, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Nico. The most common opinion is one day of playing deletes two days of practice. I don't want to tell you to give up on playing because I know everyone has a limited amount of time and you want to have some fun. Nevertheless, if you can devote more quality practice sessions in the beginning it will speed up the process of removing the trail side dominance.
May 2, 2015
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Randy
Just wanted to say that this video plus the RST & Physics video have been transformational for me. I can't thank you enough for this content. While I feel like conceptually I've been understanding what needs to happen in the swing, I've been struggling greatly in getting lag to happen...how to figure out the "trick" to get it to all come together. These videos are it. Due to casting and all kinds of junk, I haven't hit a drive over 210 yards in years. Incredibly frustrating. This morning, I hit a beautiful, effortless, 260 yard draw down the fairway of a par 5, and then followed it up with a 220 yard 3 wood onto the green for an eagle opportunity. It's been so long since I've done that. I'm beside myself. Thank you so much, RST. I can't say enough about this site and the overall approach.
May 1, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Randy. Awesome! Thanks for the follow up post on your progress. Keep getting the long ball.
May 2, 2015
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Ron
Hi Craig, Great video, it has opened my eyes. Left arm drill is good, which surprises me because I tend to break and chicken wing and have thought it to be the left wrist buckling. However my problem is the right arm. Using both hand I can take the right off before impact and it's good, leave it on and I buckle. On self analysis I believe that my gut is the problem, I'm trying to lose it but at present it seems the right elbow contacts my gut and causes sort of early release. Somehow I need to stop the elbow contact, any suggestions? thanks Ron
April 30, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Ron. Check two things. Make sure the trail arm isn't getting too deep at the top of the backswing. 3 Functions of the Right Arm Backswing Advanced Section. One of the first causes of the early fire is the trail arm gets deep. Also, take a look at the Step by Step Right Arm Drills in the Downswing Advanced Section. See if you can get the trail arm working in front of the body more.
May 2, 2015
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Stephen
Hi Craig, I am probably overthinking again, but, When performing the left hand only aspect of the Re-Shape Your Golf Swing for Lag video. My wrists appear to cup at the top of backswing when I shift to the left. I feel that I lack the control of the club. However, I get a natural lag produced, when I perform this drill. I am not reaching the normal position that you would get when you have the two hands on the club. Occasionally I get insufficient lag; I think this is due to my hands locking out at the top of backswing. I feel that the club is too heavy for my left wrist when my arms are soft. This causes my hands to over cock. Consequently a bad downswing is produced going into the impact bag, which looks as if I am flipping the club. How much wrist cock (radial deviation) should I have, and how far up do I swing the club when performing this drill. I looked at the how we use the wrist effectively drill to try and gauge how much wrist angle that is needed at the top of the backswing. Chris refers to the down-cock pump drill. However the down-cock pump drill is done with two hands on the club. I can perform the left hand release drill competently. However, when performing this left hand only swing drill. There seems to be a lack of control going down into impact. When performing this drill I try to feel the things that I have learned, i.e. shifting weight and pulling my oblique’s in the downswing. Do I need to pull with my oblique’s as he does not mention it in this drill. Could you help me with some of these Issues? Thank you again. Stephen.
April 28, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Stephen. I didn't see too much issue with your left arm only swing. Just that the wrist needed to be a little looser. When drilling this it is ok to feel a little "loosie goosie." You are trying to exaggerate and get the club moving closer to you. Its hard to say the exact degree you need in wrist set at the top. It's not max set, nor lack of any set at all. You will try to swing from the normal elevation point at the top coming down. I think you are overthinking again. The goal of me recommending this video is simple. All I care about is you training/feeling when you shift and start to pull the lead arm down that you have an increase in lag/angle versus being static or going away. Just like the Frisbee Drill that you performed well. You can add a little oblique pull if you would like. The idea though is to just give up a little control and get the club moving closer and increasing lag. No need to increase the cupping down for the lag. There isn't a lag monster I'm trying to pull of this.
April 28, 2015
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Lee
Craig, thank you for the recent review. I had a question about how to do left arm only swings without messing up the backswing as far as starting to push with the left shoulder instead of pulling with the right shoulder as you should? I found that to be hard not to do since I was focusing on doing left arm only as instructed in the previous review. I am thinking I must have been doing it wrong or missing something. Thanks.
April 28, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Lee, You can use the lead arm only going back and still rotate from the right. I understand you caution though as you don't want to add anymore push from the lead side in your backswing. For comfort purposes, just start at the top and come down for right now. Work on the backswing drills we talked about today.
April 28, 2015
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Jason
Per video review feedback I am working on these drills. I definitely see the difference in my swing when use these drills. I videoed myself doing the drill and noticed the club face was definitely coming through open, and not because I had too much lag. Is this common? I'd imagine this is probably because my release is incorrect and was built for my old swing path. Any thoughts?
April 23, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jason. If its not because of too much lag it probably is the culprit of your old swing. Take a look at the LADD Video in the Downswing Section so you can keep good lead arm training with getting the face a little squarer working into impact.
April 23, 2015
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Jaime
This video hit home for me I was absolutely stripping my wood and driver off the tee box today my buddy said " man that was smooth didn't even looked like you tried." My very next words were rotaryswing.com thank you so much guys!
April 20, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Jaime. Fantastic. Love reading the good news. Keep up the good work!
April 20, 2015
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Anthony
I am confused with the role of the right side in the downswing. This video talks about the left arm and right arm and other videos talk about the importance of the left side in the downswingbut but what does the right side do in the downswing or is its role only in the backswing and does nothing in the downswing.
March 14, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Anthony. The majority of players need to concentrate on the trail side leading the backswing and the lead side dominating the downswing. Trail side over use can be a swing killer. With that said, the trail side on the downswing helps you store lag (wrist angle), add speed (firing the trail arm correctly and keeping the trail scapula in place), and a braking system (trail foot) to help create a snap effect through impact. If you focus solely on on trail, then lead during the beginning phases of your RST Move you will not lose any progress. Its still the same way I feel and think about with my swing.
March 14, 2015
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Anthony
Craig, thanks, just one calcification , in the last sentence you mention lead during the beginning phases of your RTS move, could you please clarify " beginning phases of your RTS move".
March 15, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Anthony. I was meaning that while you develop your RST move. If you focus on using the trail side as main goal going back and then lead side as main focus coming down. It will not inhibit any of your progress during the initial period of changing your swing. I would worry about how to maximize firing the trail arm and braking with your trail foot until you can do the basic principles first.
March 15, 2015
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Anthony
Thanks Craig, I played today and my main problem is I have a trail side which always overpowers my downswing . Which videos are the best to watch to help me fix this. I feel like I can't make any progress until this is fixed.
March 15, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Anthony. A few to help. Using this video Lead arm only. Proper Muscle Activation Video in the Introduction Advanced Section. LADD Video Downswing Section. Stop Coming Over the Top Video Downswing Section.
March 16, 2015
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Colin
I'm slicing again since I started shifting my weight to start the downswing. I used to start the downswing with my arms and be able to guide the club with my left hand. Now I'm finding it hard to do that. I'm losing power because of the slice but I also don't seem to be not getting as much power from my right arm/hand as I used to. I want to start by shifting my weight because that's clearly the correct way but I'm struggling - I don't quite understand how training the hands and arms individually will help me when it comes to the full swing. (not that I don't trust you). I need the left arm to keep from going over the top and the right arm for power/speed but I don't seem to be able to coordinate when starting the swing by shifting my weight. At the moment I don't seem to do either. So I've got a slice and no power!
March 11, 2015
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
Colin, it is possible that you have too much lag now that you've been re-shaping your swing for lag. If you get too much lag and don't release it in time, you'll see a slice without much power. There's a video regarding this thought - "how your lag affects your club path". What I have been doing to work on my release is training my hands individually without a club, but both hands at the same time, one inch apart. You're still isolating the movements but you get the feeling of them working together without one affecting what the other does. R.J.
March 12, 2015
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Colin
I'm a little confused. I'm slicing again since I started my downswing by shifting my weight to the left because, when I pulled from the top (before I shifted my weight), I could make sure that my left arm was the dominant arm and now I'm finding it difficult to stop going over the top. I want to shift my weight first because this prevents me hitting from the top but I'm losing distance because of the slice and also I don't seem to be getting as much speed from my right arm/hand. I don't really understand how I can guide the club with my left arm after shifting the weight whilst still retaining the power from my right hand/arm.
March 11, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Colin. After you shift, if you are very passive with the right arm and pulling from the left you will retain lag. With your history of hitting from the top. You are more than likely pushing with the right arm and firing it too soon. You need to feel very dominant with the left side and the right side is turned off. You will maintain the angle and release the club again with good speed. Take a look at the Proper Muscle Activation Video in the introduction Advanced Section.
March 11, 2015
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Alan
When Chuck says that he is getting a little down cock or lag in the swing, is the wrist cocking only ( where the back of the wrist is flat) or is there also some hinging of the wrist?
February 13, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Alan. Adding more cock/set, than hinge.
February 13, 2015
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Alan
So with either arm you are trying not to pull hard with the arm and shoulders, right? The goal is letting gravity and the coil of the body pull the arms and club down and around the body, right?
February 8, 2015
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
Alan, yes, if we pull too hard with the arms it could cause us to lose lag and come over the top when we try to attempt a full swing. Ideally, we want to save our upper body efforts for the last 3 or 4 feet before impact. R.J.
February 8, 2015
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Peter
I will never be a 'monster' anything, except for maybe my face or my body shape. But this video, perhaps more than any other, has given me a 'feeling' of grip & wrist 'looseness'. More fun (to me) than anything, is that I can do it without putting strain on those healing soft tissues in my back. Hey! I'm a golfer, again. Not just a out-to-lunch theorist. Thanks! pk
February 2, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Thanks Peter. Happy you are on the track to progress!
February 3, 2015
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Peter
Hey guys, great videos! After 55 years, a study of the swings of Els and Love III put me on to shifting left to begin the downswing. It greatly improved my consistency and helped my shape, but I couldn't further increase my lag. So I still ,though consistently, hit my mizuno 59 seven iron 140-145. My Ping G20 driver is probably in the 220 to 250 range. Your site gives me hope I can continue to reshape and add more lag and release! Video tips would be appreciated!
January 5, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
I'm glad you are enjoying the site and feel you have hope to increase your lag. My suggestions to better your improvement. If you have the capability to to record your swing (either smartphone, ipad, camera, etc.) Upload it to our review system. One of our instructors will be happy to help find the culprit to fix your lag issues. Secondly, take a look at the Faults/Fixes Section - Losing Lag. A good list of videos to help you start re-shaping your swing.
January 5, 2015
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WILLIAM
In the video and in the comments there is a reference on some research Chuck is doing about how fast the arms come down using gravity alone vs. pulling down. Anything further on this yet?
December 23, 2014
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Sujit
Excellent video. So overall once you have both hands on the club and are hitting a normal shot on the course, is it correct to feel the left hand more than the right hand (i.e. become more left hand dominant to ensure the lag remains)? Or is it an even feeling between each hand?
December 15, 2014
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
Sujit, If you can be more left arm dominant that would be a good thing. When it is in respect to only the arms in the golf swing, the left arm is the steering wheel and the right arm is the gas pedal. So, you have to make sure that you're steering the car in the right direction before you worry about how fast you're going. We have some great videos on the site in the downswing sections that talk about the role of both arms in the downswing. Let us know if you have any questions! R.J.
December 15, 2014
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thomas
Craig, two questions. 1. do both left and right arm in a training session or stay with left only for several training sessions? 2. How many quality repetitions of each?
December 9, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Thomas. It depends on what your goal is and the needs of the swing. Most right handed golfers do better with training just the left arm only and learning how to keep the right passive. I would focus mainly on the left and if you can get a good session of 100 perfect repetitions you will start to plant the seed of change to make permanent.
December 9, 2014
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Jack
Question on lag. I have been told wrists do not provide speed but allow speed by staying loose or supple.
December 7, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jack. Take a look at the Hip and Hand Speed Video in the Advanced Downswing Section. The wrist help you create angle which you can store energy from and release into the strike. Also, the 5 Minutes to the Perfect Release in the Downswing Section will show you how effortless speed can be generated.
December 8, 2014
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James
I have a problem when doing this drill. Doing the first step with left arm only into the impact bag, my left elbow develops some pain. It is similar to "tennis elbow." I try to make sure that my forearm does not rotate too much and my left elbow is pointing down the target line but it is still painful. I just turned 56 and have more aches and pains than before but I believe this is specific to using my left arm only with the impact bag. I have no problems with left arm only and no impact bag or both arms with impact bag. Any suggestions. Can I skip that first step or use a different drill? I have been using your system for a few months and have been putting in a lot of work and my game has already changed dramatically for the better. Thanks!!!
November 23, 2014
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
James, If you have had previous injury with the elbow, you might have discomfort regardless, but if you can help it, try to let the joint relax a little bit at impact to take some stress off the joint. The joint doesn't have to be completely stiff, the point of having the elbow pointing down the target line is so that shock can be absorbed if you catch too much ground (which is what the impact bag can feel like), but if you have the joint really stiff, then it will resist absorbing the shock, if that makes any sense. Also, you can take some of the weight out of your impact bag, it could be that it's packed too tightly. The club should sink into the bag a little bit on impact. If it's just smacking off of it as if you hit a punching bag or hitting a basketball with a baseball bat (don't know if you've ever done that), then it will cause shock in the joints in your arm regardless. I hope this helps, we certainly don't want anyone to get injured. R.J.
November 24, 2014
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James
Thanks R.J. My Impact bag is not packed too tightly but I'll try to relax my elbow joint when doing the drill.
November 24, 2014
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Jacob
Hi folks, thanks Chuck for this great video. When I started with the left hand I noticed that I tend to cup the wrist when try to exaggerate the downcock. Is downcocking with a flag right wrist (I'm a lefty) just something I need to train myself to do?
November 20, 2014
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
Jacob, Yes, you should have a flat left wrist in the downswing until your hands pass your back leg, the lead wrist bows to get forward shaft lean so, you certainly shouldn't be getting any cupping. Check this video out http://www.rotaryswing.com/videos/full-swing-advanced/downswing/exaggerated-lag-hands-ahead-at-impact R.J.
November 20, 2014
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Gavin
Hi guys have been trying this out, but find it really hard to keep the angle into impact dump it early. I do find if i make more of a lateral move to wards the ball and keep the club following it's better but can't feel anything at impact
November 17, 2014
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
Gavin, Relax your grip and let your body pull your arms down, instead of your shoulders, if you're having trouble maintaining lag. Too tense of forearms or too tight of grip or overactive arms/shoulders are the main reasons why people can't maintain lag throughout the downswing. R.J.
November 17, 2014
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Gavin
what do you mean the body?, I remember at a point where the swing would just happen and I had no time to think about anything, but now it seems in slow motion and i can manipulate just about anything i want. I just want to get back to let the ball get in the way
November 17, 2014
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
Gavin, The obliques and the lats, pull the torso through the swing. The point of thinking about what you're using to produce the golf swing is so that you can make the proper movements and reproduce those moments enough times to ingrain them into your brain so that it's possible to make those movements without thinking about them. In the Full Swing Program Introduction section, I suggest watching the Truths about instruction parts 1 - 5. That will give you an in depth look of what I am describing to you. R.J.
November 17, 2014
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Hub
Based on the full-swing videos, what do you recommend as the best viewing sequence, or basic progression to get the most out of the Rotary Swing method? So far I have viewed the videos as they are presented on the right side of the screen. Using this approach, it appears that some videos are more advanced than others.
October 29, 2014
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
Hub, I would watch the introduction and the "5 minutes to the..." for each section (setup, weight transfer, takeaway, bbackswing, downswing, follow through). Then as you have specific issues with your swing as you go along, watch the corresponding video to your issues, which you can either see from watching your swing on camera or your RST instructor will give you videos to watch after a swing review. R.J.
October 29, 2014
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Moe
this one handed swing puts quite some strain on my hand and wrist... and could you describe the role of the left thumb for me please? does it actively control or just ride along? my left thumb which is snug to the hand on the center of the shaft (maybe a tad left of it) wants to leave the rest of the hand and move to the right side of the shaft (towards the tip of my forefinger), to gain more control... have i been getting the grip wrong (im trying to emulate 'yours')?
October 21, 2014
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
The role of the left thumb is to not allow the shaft to slip in between the thumb and the hand, same with the right thumb. Asidre from that, it shouldn't be thought about as far as trying to grip the club in the swing. The last three fingers on the left hand and the middle two fingers on the right hand are responsible for the grip pressure. Primarily the last three on the left hand though. If you are experiencing pain issues, it's likely that you are gripping too hard with parts that aren't meant to be gripping. R.J.
October 21, 2014
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Moe
im a bit unsure about when to add this into my training. im starting from scratch and like the idea of gettin a glimpse at the big picture, but at the same time want to get the basics down first... ive been working on setup and grip and im now adding weight shift and rotation... now should be a good time right? or should i get more into detail with backswing and the other stuff first to not ingrain completely wrong movements with this? thank you
October 18, 2014
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
Moe, Knowing the shape of the golf swing and how it should feel while you're doing it will assist you in completing the rest of the drills on the site. It's in the introduction portion of the Full Swing program because it's important to feel how a golf swing should feel before we try to put together the pieces. This will help you flow with your swing and not be too mechanical when doing drills. Good luck with your golf swing re-programming! R.J.
October 18, 2014
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joseph
Sixth attempt ... this video refers to "other" videos. Please a list of the "other" videos ... I wouldn't know where to start looking on my own.
October 16, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Joseph -- Really sorry to hear that you are having a problem with the comments on the site. I have our programming team looking at it right away. You aren't by chance trying to use any special characters in your comments?
October 16, 2014
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joseph
Been trying to submit a comment ... fifth try ... previous tries resulted in error. What's going on???
October 16, 2014
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
Joseph There might have been a momentary lapse in connection between you and the site. I was posting a comment just a few moments ago and was not having any issues. Is there something that I can help you with aside from the comment board errors? R.J.
October 16, 2014
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bryan
I'm only working on the left arm with this drill at the moment but I'm curious how the left wrist is suppose to hinge here. When I keep my wrists supple and shift my weight my left wrist cups coming down. Is this the correct motion of the left wrist here? I also feel lot of the club's weight shift to my left thumb when this happens. This leads to the wrist cupping.
October 14, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Bryan. You don't want to excessively cup the wrist on the downswing. There won't be too much addition. The key is making the angle a little greater and maintaing it longer. Take a look at the Using the Wrist Efficiently Video in the Introduction Advanced Section. Also, the Left Thumb Pain Video in the Advanced Downswing Section to make sure you aren't pushing against with the left thumb. The Downcock Pump Drill in the Advanced Downswing Section is good as well to help with the lag.
October 14, 2014
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bryan
Thanks Craig. I think were I'm getting confused here is with the looseness that seems to happen when I keep my wrists really supple. It really only happens if I'm only swinging with the left arm only here. Is the left arm only swing to give the idea of the free flowing nature of the swing and not suppose to show the feeling the wrists should have. When swinging left hand only I feel my grip tightens up significantly if I'm trying to prevent the cupping.
October 14, 2014
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Tim (Certified RST Instructor)
Bryan, a common fault I see with my players when I have them swing left arm only is that they want to initiate and control the motion with the left hand. The left hand is holding onto the grip of the club and ultimately its position and orientation will determine the squareness of the club face at impact, but the motion we are creating is a "swing" and the arm swings from the shoulder joint. Start the motion with elevation from the front of the left shoulder and feel how the arm swings very free and easy when it is moving up and down from the shoulder. The wrist will react to this motion by cocking upward on the swing up, and then when you let the left arm fall freely from the top it accelerates very quickly, mostly because of the force of gravity. The left wrist will remain cocked upward and in some cases will actually increase the wrist angle, depending on how supple and flexible your wrists are. The angle will naturally be released at the bottom do to the other forces in play. The key to left arm only work is to get the motion working from the shoulder and not from the hand. Hope that helps...
October 14, 2014
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Paul
Through the video lessons I have been asked to work on flattening out my down swing to stop coming over the top and control the down swing with my left arm. However I am having trouble with the concept of letting the left arm fall and the club face squaring up. I think in an effort to flatten out my swing plane I am rotating the left forearm clockwise from the top which has the left palm facing the ground. I am assuming that is not the correct feeling and why I cant square the face up. Cheers
October 9, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Paul. Take a look at the LADD Video in the Downswing Section. Chuck will discuss your exact feeling of falling and being able to square the club.
October 9, 2014
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Carlo
Hi Craig, I'm a new member thanks very much for this help. Very helpful! Does the down cock happen because you consciously try to increase lag w the wrists, or it happens naturally because the wrists are relaxed? If wrists are not relaxed, will down cock decrease?
October 6, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Carlo. Thanks. The Downcock happens with momentum change, relaxed wrists and proper pulling from the lead side. You can't force lag to be created by trying to hold it. Allow for the wrists to increase the angle by being very supple and using the weight shift/pull from the lead side. When the wrists tense up. The club starts to move away from the body decreasing the potential for the amount of lag.
October 6, 2014
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Stephen
Hi Craig When we pull from the left oblique in the downswing, do we want to feel the pull from the left lat at the same time. Does the pull by lat pull the arms into impact? Thanks Stephen
April 27, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Stephen. They both will be working. You will feel a little pull from the oblique earlier than the lat and it will decelerate sooner. Yes, the lat will help pull the arms into impact.
April 27, 2015
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Joe
This note for chuck quinton. I have learned more in two weeks from your website than in 40 years of pro lessons. I have never been able to break the 9 handicap level but have already seen better ballflite with less effort. There is SO much misinformation out there. It is hard to perform something if you don't understand what your actually trying to do. I can now see what all the instructors I have had were TRYING to get me to do but could not explain it. Keep up this great website. RotarySwing golf IS the golf secret everyone has been looking for.
September 25, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Thanks Joe. I will make sure it gets to Chuck. We appreciate the kind words. Lets keep making your swing more efficient together!
September 26, 2014
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Anthony
I am loving this drill and can definitely see the benefits, but why do so many "pros" use and advocate the use of the glove under the arm as a drill?
September 9, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Anthony. For sometime, the theory of the glove has been to keep the arms and body in-sync. The problem is it limits mobility for the club to swing. Using rotation only is an effective way to hit the ball, but it limits a lot of power variables.
September 9, 2014
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Anthony
This idea that when you swing with your left arm it doesn't cause you to rotate to a full finish is so foreign to me. I've never been able to do one arm swings consistently because of this. I never realized I was over doing it. I really think this will change everything for me. Does this mean, however, that the old standard drill of using a glove or something else to keep the left arm connected to the chest a no-no in RST?
September 4, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Yes, the old glove in the pit drill is definitely a no-no.
September 4, 2014
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George
When I swing with the left arm only and keep my wrist soft as Chuck recommends in the video, my wrist flexes or cups. At impact, won't this lead to increased loft and scooping?
September 3, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Patterson. You need to control the wrist into impact to get the proper release. Use the Using the Wrist Efficiently Video in the Advanced Introduction Section and the Knuckles Down Video in the Advanced Downswing Section to not cup at impact.
September 3, 2014
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Mark
Hi I am new to the RST. I have not yet submitted a video. I am I best getting this drill in place first before submitting a video? Kind Regards Mark
August 31, 2014
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Aaron (Certified RST Instructor)
This is a great video and drill, however you can send in a video as a baseline and work from there. Might want to have one of use check setup, grip and some of the basics before getting to this drill.
August 31, 2014
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George
I think it's in this video (it may be in another video on training the left arm independently) where Chuck uses the example of "turning off the shoulder muscle" to demonstrate the amount of speed that can be generated just from gravity. I've started using this feeling of "turning off my shoulder" just after making my weight shift, and it seems to help keep my shoulders from opening up at the same rate as my hips, and also seems to help maintain lag and have a proper release. Am I on the right track here?
August 18, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Patterson. I like where your head is going.
August 18, 2014
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George
I've been working on training the left arm for about 2 weeks. I have started to show great improvement with my iron ball striking. However, my 3 wood and driver have become noticeably worse. With those clubs, I have developed an extreme slice. Any reason why I would be able to control the irons well, but not even close on the woods? Thanks
August 16, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Patterson. It's probably because you are not used to the new angle of attack and releasing the club. Use the Driver Setup Adjustments Video in the Advanced Setup. It will help you hit the ball a touch more on the upswing and get the club rotating.
August 16, 2014
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George
I am working on training the left arm independently and am having some issues. At impact, my left wrist is cupping/flexing even more than in my full swing. Especially as I try to keep my left wrist supple as Chuck says in the drill. When I make the transition, my left wrist automatically flexes and the club face is wide open. When I hit balls, I get scoops, fats, and shanks. When I try to keep my left wrist flat and rotate into impact, my arms are so rigid I get no lag. Advice?
August 11, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Patterson. Use the Left Elbow Position at Impact Video (Advanced Downswing) to learn the release while not over rotating or stiffening the left arm. Also, 5 Mins to Perfect Release (Downswing). Learn how to release to control the lead wrist into impact.
August 11, 2014
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don
I have for so long hit with my right side and over the top I can not get out of this very bad habit please advise the best drill have way to many thoughts when I put club in hand....?? Thanks
August 10, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Don. Use the Ladd Video and the Stop Coming Over the Top Video in the Downswing Section. Learn how the weight transfer, gravity, and lead arm shallow out the plane.
August 10, 2014
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Thomas
great video,really liked the mention of the right wrist action
August 3, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Thanks Thomas!
August 3, 2014
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Leigh
Can this drill be done with the drive without the ball.
July 25, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Leigh. Yes it can. Just be careful with the shaft flex and the impact bag.
July 25, 2014
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Chuck I think this is one of the most fundamental videos of RST. I got the the takeaway under control from day one....so simple (elevation, flexion, rotation). But it wasn't till I watched this video that I full understood what you meant in the "downswing" of letting the arms drop, creating lag, letting your arms fully extend, stalling your hips, and having the arms come under you rather than around you! I am a natural athlete and a physical therapist so the RST makes sense to me but I for the life of me could not understand how to consistently hit the ball in the downswing despite watching all your videos in the downswing section ( I had almost given up). Like I said, Hands down this has been the best video in explaining the downswing and allowing me to finally get a grip on the golf swing.
July 23, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Thank you for the great feedback. Chuck and all of us here appreciate you sharing your excitement.
July 23, 2014
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Leigh
I love this drill. How about the driver? This is the club in which I am having trouble squaring up. I have been using it with the impact bag. What do you think?
July 21, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Leigh. The swing will remain the same for irons and woods. If you are having trouble squaring up. Take a look at the LADD Video in the Downswing Section to learn how to square earlier. And then the 5 Minutes to the Perfect Release in the same section to maximize the efficiency.
July 21, 2014
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Andre
hi....have to say these videos are awesome! As a 5 handicap who's been playing for long time i thought i was on a pretty good track. I've identified so many faults and learned more about the swing watching these videos in a few days than over the last ...years! looking forward to have you review both my wife and I's swing
July 13, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Andre. Happy to have you as a member and glad you like our instructional content! We are looking forward to helping you and your wife!
July 13, 2014
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Frank
Instead of weight shift only how about introducing sitting with left side? I find the sitting helps initiate the downswing.
July 11, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Frank. Sitting Into the Left Side is the Crux of the Downswing. That would only help you further incorporating it with the drill.
July 11, 2014
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Patrick (Certified RST Instructor)
Great to hear John! The video is meant to provide a macro view of the golf swing so that all the smaller details are put into context. We don't want to "lose the forest for the trees".
July 10, 2014
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John
Quick feedback - I think this is a great sequence for people who are new to the program and struggling to continue to play through the season while learning so many new things. I found my game got much worse as I started the program, probably because I was thinking about too many new things. This is helping me keep the "feel" in the game while I learn the details in a way I never learned them before.
July 10, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey John. I agree. This video really helps the student make a change, but keep the flow in the swing. Especially, when trying to play a little and improve their move on the fly.
July 10, 2014
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Michael
I have downloaded Puffin and Photo Flash but still can't play video reviews on I-Pad any ideas please.
July 8, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Michael. Please use the Contact Us Link at the bottom of the page. Contact Customer Support. They are very friendly and will be able to help you.
July 8, 2014
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Michael
Having checked it does seem that the Latissimus Doris is doing the work. Thanks Tim for your reply. Back to the drawing board then for me. Regards
July 8, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Michael. That's what the forum is here for. Good talks between fellow RST'ers!
July 8, 2014
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Kevin
In both the drills, left and right arm, we turn the muscles off in each shoulder and let gravity work as we are shifting our weight back to the target just a little. Is that correct? In the real swing, we're pulling with our left side back to the target and our arms get a free ride back down to what Chuck calls the delivery position, they do nothing. As the arms are getting pulled down, do we also turn the muscles off? i hope you understand what I am asking? Thanks.
July 8, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Kevin. I think I understand what you are asking. As you shift left from the top of the backswing. Gravity and pulling from the left shallow out the left arm and work it in front of the body. Chuck is referring to active motion. You don't want to actively rotate or spin too hard from the top. The turn off is more a passive motion. Things are happening. The arms falling and working in front. However, you not actively trying to rip them down in front or rotate with the shoulders hard to perform the motion.
July 8, 2014
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gary
comment on the extension from the left shoulder joint to allow completion of the backswing. RST talks about not pushing from the left shoulder?
July 5, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Gary. Most golfers over do the push from the left shoulder/side. There is minimal left shoulder push at the completion. Take a look at the Left Shoulder Push Video in the Advanced Backswing Section for some good insight to your question.
July 5, 2014
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William
Is the shape of the Right Arm Only a Circle, Figure 8 or a Inside Figure 8 Shape? Good Job, Chuck!
June 30, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey William. It would work on one plane.
June 30, 2014
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charles
Since I'm a guy who can't drive a ball out of his shadow, I'm keenly interested in finding ways to improve/find the motion that gives me the best chance of hitting the drive longer. I love the website and have gotten tons of good things to implement into my game, such as it is. But I am interested in any good information I can get my hands on. In the July issue of Golf Digest, one of the game's longest and straightest drivers, Gary Woodland, explains the keys to his powerful swing. In one key section, talking about the movement of the body through impact he says "Boxers don't throw punches with their arms only. The torso moves with the punch to put more mass behind the hit. Same thing with your driver: Don't stop turning your chest until it's pointing well left of the target." Okay, got that. But I've watched Chuck's video (Reshape your Golf swing for Lag) and I'm struck by how different the advice is: at 11:28 of the video he says "I am not turning coming down." The again at 11:49 he says "the body got TURNED.." Is somebody right and somebody wrong, or are both right in their own way, just two different swing thoughts. So do I try Woodland's "get the torso turning and get the mass into the hit" or rely on Chuck's advice to "let the arms and club turn the body"? I need some convincing and direction. Thanks! Chuck Sharkey
June 30, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Charles. At 11:28 its because most golfers actively drive to hard from the right side coming down. Driving too hard with the right side would steepen the shaft plane and actually cause a loss of lag. At 11:49 the body was turned to a complete finish because of momentum and swinging the club. The body didn't force the movement. Gary uses brute force to hit the ball far. Not a lot of people are as strong as Gary. We are trying to use physics to maximize potential. Charles Howell III was one of the longest hitters on tour awhile back and a gust of wind could blow him over. He wasn't using muscle strength. He was maximizing rotation, leverage and width. Boxers don't throw punched with the arms. They wind back (rotation) and release the arm for maximum blow. If the arm didn't release the energy it wouldn't be a very powerful punch or he would whiff hitting the opponent. Take a look at the Hip and Hand Speed Video and the Acceleration Profile Video in the Downswing Advanced Section for more info. In the swing we rotate back and load the right side to store energy. Then fire it into the ball.
June 30, 2014
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Rob
I love this video but have a question. Chuck seems to de-emphasize the body as the engine that hits the ball as opposed to the arms and release of the club. I have always heard to "Use the big muscles" and hit the ball by turning your body This seems to promote more of an "armsy" swing. What am I missing?
June 30, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
The arms and the hands release the energy from the body at impact. Some golfers are taught to rotate the heck out of the body through impact, with minimal hand release. However, that goes against the design of the club and proper function of the body. Its all body, body, body on tv. Take a look at some of the best players on tour. They are releasing the heck out of the club. Not fighting physics and speed. This is where effortless power comes into play. The body creates the power, the arms release to transfer it. A much less controlled move than it sounds, when done properly.
June 30, 2014
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Michael
When I do this my clubs tend to hit the ground in front of the bag or ball. I'm "cutting off the muscle" and trying to let gravity to its job but the club seems to fall in to the ground and not make it all the way through. Thought?
June 24, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey David. Any arm specific? Are you a right handed or left handed player? It might be because you are dropping the club, instead of swinging it maintaining forward shaft lean into impact. Take a look at the Taking a Divot Video in the Downswing Advanced Section. It will help discuss bottoming out at the wrong portion.
June 24, 2014
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Vince
Really interesting video. The clips at the end with Chuck demonstrating are especially good. I notice that when I try the left arm drill the swing center is always in the right place. When I do the right arm, the swing center is 8" behind where it should be. I'm also having problems with the full swing and hitting a large percentage also massively fat, basically where the right-arm-only drill is centering out at. Can't be a coincidence. Any suggestions what to look for (or better yet, to work on) ?
June 21, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Try and stick to mostly using the left side. People tend to already over do the right. The left arm helps shallow out the swing plane. The right arm if done incorrectly will steepen the shaft and the tendency will be to push the hip leading to bottoming out too soon.
June 21, 2014
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Christopher
I'm gaining a lot of swing-insight from this video. The left-hand-only drill encourages weight shift because the shift helps the club start moving. Also, it encourages me to keep my left arm connected to my upper body and not overswing. When I overswing, I lose the connection and feel a loss of control and leverage. QUESTION: I noticed that I can add speed to the club during the "left hand only" drill by squatting slightly as a way to start the club's downward motion. Does this have any relationship to the Tiger Squat video? Chuck doesn't touch on that aspect in the video. Or, am I introducing an unnecessary motion?
June 20, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
The momentum change will aid in creating more lag for potential club head speed. The Tiger Squat is more storage of the power and using good ground force dynamics.
June 20, 2014
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Kevin
Re-Shape Your Golf Swing for Lag. At the two minute mark Chuck says; " the right hand is really primarily there for speed." my question is, is this video for hitter of the ball instead of swingers, who pull and rotate through?
June 17, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Kevin. This video is for the RST swinger. The right hand adds speed on the downswing. The left hand is for control. Take a look at the Throw the Ball Drill for more explanation on the right arm in the Downswing Section.
June 17, 2014
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Kevin
Thank You, the "throw the ball drills" really helped clear things up to a great extent.
June 18, 2014
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Frederik
Hello I Just wondered, getting stuck, hasn't it not something to do with losing the tush-line. So if i early extend, should i work on that before working on specific drills for getting stuck. In relationship to that, Losing the tush-line could it be a result of a weak lower back?
June 15, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Frederik, losing the tush line can cause you to get stuck on the downswing. Working on the maintaining the tush line wouldn't hinder you. But, the tush line might not be the overall cause of why you're stuck. Losing the tush line tends to deal with not keeping the glutes engaged versus having a weak lower back.
June 16, 2014
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Iain
On the "reshape your swing for lag" video, when you talk about soft wrists does the club move in the fingers to hinge more at the top to create lag, or does the grip stay in contact with the bottom of your left hand's palm and the wrists really do flex more. I'm not sure mine are that flexible! Many thanks iain
June 10, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
You don't want the club sliding around in the left palm. More flexibility in the wrist. The grip pressure should remain controlled, but not letting go.
June 10, 2014
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Ryan
Quick question: I have a tournament in two weeks that is the most important week of golf to me of the summer. I submitted my first swing review and Craig recommended some videos, mostly regarding my left arm (I'm a lefty) and pushing from my right side in the takeaway. I am fully committed to working through the full RST program this summer guided by my swing review recommendations, but I obviously want to play well in this tournament too. So my question is what is the best way for me to get the best performance possible at my tournament in two weeks? Would it be working on something like this video for the overall feel of the swing?
May 29, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Ryan, yes this would be a good video for you. It will help you start to learn the overall shape and feel of what we are trying to achieve in the downswing. Just keep things simple. You don't want to get too swing thought bogged down before the event. Great to hear you are fully committed and good luck in the tournament!
May 29, 2014
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james
At around 3:10 in the video, Chuck states " keep your left arm straight". In his actual swings, I see his left arm folding. Is the left arm folding (not the overdone ones in the video) ok when working on the left arm only?
May 27, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey James, you are really wanting the left arm to be as straight and relaxed as possible. There can be a slight bend in it but not much as you would be introducing a new timing angle in the swing. Work to keep it straight and relaxed as much as possible.
May 27, 2014
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fionn
when swinging with the left arm only, and letting the arm fall, I come down way way behind the ball. Whatever I am doing when I get to the top of the backswing (again left arm only), my left shoulder is so low that when I let the club drop I come down way behind the ball and heavy. Any ideas ( I think I might have too much weight on the balls of my fee and not a flat enough shoulder turn), what do you think? Thank you.
May 27, 2014
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WILLIAM
I have struggled with fat shots for a long time. At first I thought the main problem was uncocking the wrists too soon, then I thought it was not getting to my left side, then I thought it was moving my head to the right on the backswing. Obviously all of these could be the culprit. I have now decided that if your left shoulder is in roughly the same place at impact as it was at address, you won't hit behind the ball. But if you tilt back to the right on the backswing, and then try to hit the ball with your arms and or hands, you will almost always hit behind it.
May 29, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Sounds like the shoulders could be a bit steep. Have you looked at it on camera and compared your normal rotation around the axis with the mentioned drill swings?
May 27, 2014
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lou
This is a dynamite practice session. What I find so great about this program is you never know what you will discover by working with the the drills. An early example for me was how much difference it made when I narrowed my stance to be in Neutral Joint Alignment, a lot of good things started to fall in place, balance and stability just got better with no more effort than a simple change in set-up. With this drill -- for the right arm, as I began to get the hang of letting gravity take the right arm down, I began to notice I was unconsciously 'sitting' very naturally into a little squat as I shifted weight to the left-- something I could not get right when consciously trying to work it into my downswing.
May 26, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
The drills in the video help unlock the potential of what the body already wants instinctively to do correctly.
May 28, 2014
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lou
That last comment can be deleted. I just realized I can access the website from the tablet as well.
May 24, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
No worries Lou. Glad you found it!
May 24, 2014
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lou
I don't find this on the mobile site. It would be great if it can be placed there available to my tablet. Thanks.
May 24, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
No worries Lou. Glad you found it!
May 24, 2014
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david
hi, any chance of some numbers re. practice. the text that accompanies the video says do 10 practice sessions with the left arm before moving on to the right. I was wondering if 25 reps a day of each of the 4 stages would suffice using the left arm only. thanks
May 23, 2014
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Yoshi
With this "down cocking" type of timing/swing, do you recommend a shaft kick point to be closer to the head? Or doesn't matter?
May 9, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
This would be a variable from one golfer to the next based on club head speed at the bottom of the arc. Make sure you see a reputable club fitter in your area and he can take a look at where the shaft kick points need to be.
May 9, 2014
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Barbara
Chuck -- this has helped me alot! I am a left-hander playing right-handed It really helps me get a good feel swinging with the left hand and putting it all togeether. Sometimes I bottom out -- not sure if thats not finishing or enough of a wrist snap? A;lso -- same idea for rescues and woods and driver?
May 8, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
That could be from pushing on the shaft with the left thumb which can cause some early casting and cause the club to bottom out early. Make sure the weight is left as well to control the bottom of the arc and not get you stuck back which can also cause some early bottom out. Same idea for all clubs in a stock shot format. Just dont try and overdo the lag into the hitting area which is very common for students on the site.
May 9, 2014
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Yoshi
This is the best video I have seen and what I need the most for my practice. Would it be possible to download/save to my PC so that I can always fall back on?
May 8, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Unfortunately there is no way to download any of the videos on the site due to copyrights etc. You should be able to access this video from the app though so that you can have it on the go when need be.
May 8, 2014
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Yoshi
Which app you are referring to? Can you tell me how to access this video from that app?
May 8, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
We have an app that you can download and access through your premium membership. You need to download it on your portable device of choice and you can access the videos on the go as needed. I will mention that the app is being rebuilt at the moment so it may not have all of the videos but will soon be released with a new update.
May 9, 2014
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Barbara
All goes well but clubhead seems to turn into ground too much once I have both hands involved with a full swing.??
May 7, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Sounds like you may be overdoing it a bit. I would suggest that you go take a look at 5 minutes to a perfect release in the program downswing section and fine tune that and then revisit this video or other lag building drills on the site.
May 7, 2014
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Hector
what does chuck mean by getting stocken? thanks
April 29, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Can you point out what time of the video he says this so I can help clarify!
April 30, 2014
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Mike
This action is one that I mastered independently--and somehow forgot!!!!! Will start on this from the beginning and do it until I can get the feel of it, again.
April 26, 2014
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michael
I was grooving this "sit" feeling yesterday at range. For me, the motion created a self belief that my head & shoulders were pointing rearward as the downward arm motion began. Arms were completely relaxed, they only 'whipped' around due to the left hip post to stop the 'sit' (fall). hope this is helps. I say 'downward motion' bc I feel the word 'swing' promotes using the arm muscles to bring club down into path. I try to envision a towel popping motion. arms cant be stiff, body weight shift generates momentum, loose arms & wrist swing loose and snap pop at finish. If yuor arms are stiff with towel it just 'swings' the towel in a circle, but you get NO pop at finish/impact
April 25, 2014
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Dan
For the left arm only drill, Chuck explains how it feels that you just let the arm fall and let gravity do its job. The question is, when do you sequence this? Is it at the same time you sit into the left side? Or is it after you sit into the left side? Or something else?
April 24, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
The downward movement of the arms will happen after you sit into the left side.
April 25, 2014
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Dan
Thanks for the reply Chris. This REALLY helps me. Is there anything that keys you into when you have fully "sat into the left side"? For example, hips are square to the target line? Or left glute/leg will start to straighten? etc...
April 25, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
My pleasure Dan. A good way to think of the sequencing would be to get fully seated left and you are driving the left heel into the ground and you are also pulling the left hip away from the target with the left obliques, the hands and arms should be falling and moving back out in front of the body by the rotation of the torso. Once you feel the weight left and you start to pull with the obliques you will be ready to fire the arms.. Hope that helps
April 25, 2014
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Dan
Excellent! Now I am ready to banging on that impact bag!
April 25, 2014
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Martin
On another video you showed the power transfer of legs releasing then slowing, shoulders releasing then slowing, arms releasing and slowing and finally hands releasing the club. In this video it seems like you are suggesting the arms release then the shoulders come through after the arms. My question is. . .do the arms and hands release then the shoulders or vice versa?
April 22, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
You dont want to start with the shoulders from the top down, you want to try and keep the back to the target as the hands and arms are falling so that at impact you shoulders are square as the hands and arms are acting independently from the body and extending through the release and down the line
April 22, 2014
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michael
Chuck, What is the length of your 7 iron?
April 20, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Just confirmed that he is at standard men's length on the current set.
April 21, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
I believe he is at an inch and a quarter short. I can double check when I see him this week.
April 21, 2014
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george
Chuck says he is letting gravity move his left arm. Is this just a part of this drill or should I try to achieve that feeling when I'm playing as well?
April 17, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Yes that is a great feeling to have in the left arm. You want very little tension in the lead arm so that it can rotate through the hitting area properly so allow a relaxed left arm and let gravity work.
April 19, 2014
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george
Chris, thanks for the reply. This brings up another question. I am struggling with squaring the face using Chuck's method of rotating the forearm but not the elbow. Does this happen naturally as a result of a relaxed lead arm, or do I have to make it happen....and if so, when do I start rotating the forearm? It seems you could not rotate early as that would make the plane too steep. When i try to conciously close it later, it only causes my whole arm to tense up, not mention the timing issues. I can do it OK at slower tempos but not faster. I'm hoping you will say to stay loose and let it square itself but not sure it could be that easy! This is by far my biggest stumbling block in RST and causes lots of pushes and slices because I'm working so hard to close the face, esp. w/ driver, causing tension, which seems all wrong. I understand the position Chuck is talking about but not whether this can happen effortlessly as a result of good mechanics and swing plane or if it requires conscious muscular effort to rotate the forearm. Thanks for your help.
April 20, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
The rotation of the forearms in the downswing does start from the top down in order to square the face early so that you aren't having to time a flip of the hands. You will get a steep appearance if you were to load the to top and just rotate the lead arm. However, when you are in full swing mode, the rotation from the body at the same time is shallowing the horizontal plane along with the rotation of the forearms to keep the club working down the plane line with a square face and enter the hitting area ready to release. Pulling the elbow down the line and rotating the forearm can be tough to grasp at first but if you start from the 9 to 3 region to get the correct feeling so that you can add more and more to the swing as you go. Make sure that you really work through 5 minutes to a perfect release, all of the steps, and then go back to working to the top of the swing and see if you get a better feel for what is going on. Hope that helps.
April 21, 2014
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jack
when using throw the right hand at the ball it looks like the hand can't be released because it still has to be bent back per video's of right hand bent back to create the fwd shaft lean. looks like the right wrist still has to be bent back when the right elbow is in front of the right hip. in other words your right wrist can't straighten so that is is parallel with the right forearm until after ball club contact. . when I think of throwing a ball at one on the ground I don't think of keeping the right wrist bent . I think of straightening the right wrist when throwing from the top of the backswing.
April 15, 2014
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Christopher
Jack - this is a great observation. I've completely mis-interpreted the "right hand throwing" video ...... until now.
June 20, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
The right wrist will have a bit of flexion in it at impact for forward shaft lean and then will extend just post impact to a flat position with unar deviation. The throw the ball drill is to show the correct timing in the release of the right arm into impact.
April 16, 2014
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Michael
After the weight shift, in order to move the lead arm into the impact position it feels that the lead latissimus dorsi is contracting to pull the lead arm around the body through impact. Is this correct?
April 13, 2014
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Tim (Certified RST Instructor)
Michael, The feeling of the left lat staying engaged is a good one. This keeps the left arm connected to the torso. It is the left oblique that actually brings the torso around and then the left arm will release. The mistake I see most often is when the player pulls with the left shoulder which disengages the lat and the left arm from the body too soon.
April 13, 2014
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WILLIAM
I am intrigued by the concept of letting the arms fall to begin the downswing (after shifting weight to the left). I can hit balls really solidly this way, and on the driving range they seem to go just as far as when I am trying to hit hard. On other videos in this series, you speak of engaging the left oblique after shifting to the left. What does this do?
April 9, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
The left oblique pull, will rotate the torso which is moving the hands and arms back out in front of the body as they are falling and releasing. It is also help pull the hip away from the target.
April 9, 2014
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steven
I've been working for about a month... My swing was total arms and very inconsistent. Now, I have a new swing.... some lag is there and I'm killing my i.e. 8 iron 150-65 when it was 100-10. BUT, my left arm seems to not going above parralel at top (big guy big chest). On camera I still start releasing a little early, and my weight shift is still a little forward rather than my left hip dropping back. Is there an ideal left arm height in the back swing if I get killer distance? Yes, I get 90° shoulder turn, but my left arm will not flatten against my larger than normal chest. Thanks -sa
April 8, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Steve, can you tell me how much shoulder elevation you have in your current swing? Where is the right elbow at the top of the swing. You may want to take a look at the "5 minutes to a perfect backswing checkpoints" video and rehearse the moves and see if you can elevate, flexion and then rotate and see if you add any more width to the swing. One thing to remember is, regardless of body type, if you are using the body efficiently and things are in sequence, that is a huge bonus for consistency and based on your new 8 iron numbers, you are in great shape in the world of distance.
April 8, 2014
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john
Have you finished research on "gravity" getting the club down? Very interested in this.
April 7, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
There was some research done and further research will continue and we will publish the data/info as soon as we have it perfected.
April 8, 2014
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Alejandro
Hello!, how is the research going ? I'm also interested in this material.
April 30, 2015
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
We have some really great data that we will try and post when Chuck is comfortable with it. We like to only post facts for you members of the site and it is important that we maintain that integrity to the fullest. Be on the look out.
April 30, 2015
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Carole
To practice left arm or right arm do you set up as though you were going to hit ball?
April 6, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Yes, keep the setup consistent on most all drills.
April 8, 2014

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