Webinar 1: The Core
Webinar 1: The Core

Get to the "core" of the issue in your swing and understand how THE GOAT makes his swing s ...

Webinar 2: Core Power & Putting
Webinar 2: Core Power & Putting

In webinar 2, we discuss the Core Power video and how to grip the club properly so you can ...

Webinar 3 - Compression & Clubface Control
Webinar 3 - Compression & Clubface Control

Control & compression, that's the name of the game in ball striking and when you follow th ...

Webinar 4 - Fascia & Effortless Power
Webinar 4 - Fascia & Effortless Power

This is a webinar I did with the RSA members on how to load the fascial lines. This will h ...

The GOAT Code - Ep 1 - How the Hands & Wrist Create Speed
The GOAT Code - Ep 1 - How the Hands & Wrist Create Speed

Welcome to The GOAT Code Podcast! In this first episode we cover the most important topic ...

The GOAT Code - Ep 2 - How Tour Player Equipment Deals Work
The GOAT Code - Ep 2 - How Tour Player Equipment Deals Work

Have you ever wondered what happens when a golfer makes it through Q School? How the equip ...

The GOAT Code - Ep 3 - 69 yr Old Increases Swing Speed 15 mph in 30 minutes!
The GOAT Code - Ep 3 - 69 yr Old Increases Swing Speed 15 mph in 30 minutes!

Do you think that you're doomed to never swing the golf club over 100 mph. Well, Steve tho ...

Larry's Lesson - Pt 1
Larry's Lesson - Pt 1

The #1 most important thing you have to learn in the golf swing is how to release the club ...

Larry's Lesson Pt 2
Larry's Lesson Pt 2

Larry's Lesson Part 2

Larry's Lesson Day 2 - Part 1
Larry's Lesson Day 2 - Part 1

Starting in Day 2, we begin to work on Larry's body movement to sync up with his hand spee ...

Larry's Lesson Day 2 - Pt 2 - Using the Hackmotion
Larry's Lesson Day 2 - Pt 2 - Using the Hackmotion

Now we begin to use the Hackmotion to make a huge change in Larry's shut faced takeaway an ...

Larry's Lesson - Day 3 - Pt 3 - Swinging w/ Speed
Larry's Lesson - Day 3 - Pt 3 - Swinging w/ Speed

In the final part of the lesson we start getting Larry to pick up his pace to naturally re ...

How to Swing on Plane w/ The GOAT Code
How to Swing on Plane w/ The GOAT Code

Have you been searching for the right feeling to get the club to naturally swing on one pl ...

How the Hips Move in a Throwing Pattern
How the Hips Move in a Throwing Pattern

How the hips move in a throwing pattern in the golf swing.

How to Compress the Ball & Get Shaft Lean Lesson
How to Compress the Ball & Get Shaft Lean Lesson

Do you struggle with casting the club and losing lag? No compression on the ball? This gol ...

Bryan's Journey - Introduction
Bryan's Journey - Introduction

Follow along as Bryan works through The GOAT Code From Start To Finish And Documents The E ...

Bryan's Journey - Trail Hand Putting
Bryan's Journey - Trail Hand Putting

The first submission of Bryan's trail hand putting work. You'll see some practice, the su ...

Winter Golf Training Program - Setup
Winter Golf Training Program - Setup

Our premium golf training program for winter months

Proper Muscle Activation
Proper Muscle Activation

Understanding how to properly activate muscles is critical for producing effortless power ...

Golf Grip Checkpoint Tips
Golf Grip Checkpoint Tips

For years, golf instructors have put band-aids on your golf grip and your golf swing by m ...

Should You Splay Your Feet At Setup
Should You Splay Your Feet At Setup

In a perfect golf setup, should your feet point out or be square to the target? This premi ...

Connect to Your Core - Get in Box
Connect to Your Core - Get in Box

This video gives you a drill to get connected to your core and "in the box." It is imperat ...

Fix Your Setup For More Power
Fix Your Setup For More Power

Did you know that a simple setup change can increase your distance off the tee? In this ...

The Golf Grip and Being Out of the Box
The Golf Grip and Being Out of the Box

Another video to disspell some of the common swing myths. This one deals with the old adag ...

The Gorilla Grip
The Gorilla Grip

Here’s a golf instruction myth about the grip that can’t die soon enough. The myth sta ...

Problems Caused by Poor Ball Position
Problems Caused by Poor Ball Position

Having the ball in the wrong position will not only cost you accuracy, but as this video t ...

How Your Setup is Causing Your Left Arm to Bend
How Your Setup is Causing Your Left Arm to Bend

I bet you've never heard this explanation for why your left arm is bending at the top of y ...

Phase 1 Follow Along
Phase 1 Follow Along

Learn how to practice your golf swing productively and follow along with a pro in this pra ...

DEAD Drill Step 1 - The Backswing
DEAD Drill Step 1 - The Backswing

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

DEAD Drill Step 2 - The Transition
DEAD Drill Step 2 - The Transition

The DEAD Drill transition is DEAD simple. One move to have a powerful and dynamic transiti ...

DEAD Drill Step 3 - The Post-Up
DEAD Drill Step 3 - The Post-Up

The Post Up move is where all the magic happens in the golf downswing. If you've never rel ...

Flip vs. Release in Golf
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
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
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
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
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
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
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 ...

Golf Impact - Part 2 of 7
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
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
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
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
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 - Bonus

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

Overview of the Push Release
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 Swing Sway w/ the Wall Drill

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

Weight Shift Sweep Drills
Weight Shift Sweep Drills

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

Intro to Weight Shift in the Golf Swing
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
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
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
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 - Weight Shift

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

Step 1 - Weight Shift - Drill Only
Step 1 - Weight Shift - Drill Only

Step 1 - Weight shift drills

5 Minute Golf Setup w/ Weight Shift
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
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 ...

How Attack Angle Affects Compression
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 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
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
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
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
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
How to Cure the Shanks in 3 Steps

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

Phase 2 Follow Along
Phase 2 Follow Along

In Phase 2, you learn how to take your straight shots you learned in Phase 1 and add effor ...

Bonus Challenge 1 - Curving the Ball
Bonus Challenge 1 - Curving the Ball

Bonus Challenge 1 is about learning how to curve the ball in both directions. This challen ...

Getting Stuck on the Downswing
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
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
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
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
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
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
Square the Clubface Early

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

Hitting a Fade
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

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

Hitting a Draw
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
How to Hit the 3 Yard Draw

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

Phase 3 Follow Along
Phase 3 Follow Along

It's in Phase 3 where you will start to really experience power AND control like never bef ...

Bonus Challenge 2 - Trajectory Control
Bonus Challenge 2 - Trajectory Control

Bonus Challenge 2 is where you become the master of your own destiny by learning how to co ...

How to Fix Golf Reverse Pivot
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 ...

Cure Reverse Pivot w/ the Necktie Drill
Cure Reverse Pivot w/ the Necktie Drill

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

5 Minutes to Master Rotation
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
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
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
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 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 - 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
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 - Core Rotation

Step 2- Adding body rotation

Step 2 - Core Rotation - Drill Only
Step 2 - Core Rotation - Drill Only

The drill only for Step 2 - Body Rotation

Clamshell Drill - How to Cure Early Extension
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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 Your Golf Swing Fast and Easy - Live Lesson
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
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
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
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
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
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
AXIOM Lag in the Golf Swing

Producing incredible lag has never been this easy - or fast

Increase Lag - Impact Cube Drill
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 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
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 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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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 - Dump Truck and Drag Racer

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

Bonus Challenge 3 - 9 Ball Challenge
Bonus Challenge 3 - 9 Ball Challenge

Bonus Challenge 3 is the culmination of all that you have learned. You will learn how to t ...

AXIOM Introduction
AXIOM Introduction

Have you been looking for a wait to learn a tour pro swing through a simple feeling so you ...

The AXIOM Golf Video
The AXIOM Golf Video

What if you could learn a swing just like the tour pros, increase your distance and consis ...

AXIOM and the DEAD Drill
AXIOM and the DEAD Drill

How does the AXIOM work with the DEAD Drill to build a consistent golf swing? Find out how ...

AXIOM Golf Discover Your Natural Rhythm & Tempo
AXIOM Golf Discover Your Natural Rhythm & Tempo

At last, a simple way to have perfect rhythm and tempo on every shot.

Justin Rose AXIOM Force Plate Study
Justin Rose AXIOM Force Plate Study

Want to see proof of the AXIOM in tour pros with irrefutable data? Then look no further th ...

AXIOM in Jessica Korda
AXIOM in Jessica Korda

Top ranked LPGA star Jessica Korda is a wonderful example of power and simplicity as she d ...

AXIOM in Jon Rahm
AXIOM in Jon Rahm

A perfect example of the AXIOM can be seen in tour pro and top ranked Jon Rahm. This compa ...

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

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

Golf Takeaway | Overview
Golf Takeaway | Overview

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

AXIOM Refine Your Takeaway
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 a Perfect Golf Takeaway with Just a 2 Inch Movement!

Learn how to pull in this video: Pushing vs Pulling in the Golf Swing Learn the simplest ...

Fix Inside Takeaway - 4 Square Drill
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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'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
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
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
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
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
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
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
AXIOM Body Backswing

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

AXIOM Refine Your Backswing
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
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
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
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 Golf Backswing Secrets

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

How Much Shoulder Elevation
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
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
Understanding Arm Elevation

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

Fix Overswing/Across the Line - Flying Right Elbow
Fix Overswing/Across the Line - Flying Right Elbow

If you want to cure your overswing/across-the-line swing, you first need to diagnose the c ...

Live Lesson - How to Fix Your Arms by Fixing Your Legs in the Backswing
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
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?
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
Simplify Your Backswing with Shallow Arms

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

Stop Overswinging | Get Your Backswing Under Control
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
Fix Hip Overturning in Your Backswing

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

Fix Loose Lower Body w/ Laser Beam Knee Drills
Fix Loose Lower Body w/ Laser Beam Knee Drills

Lower body stability is key for power and accuracy in the golf swing. This drill will help ...

Torso, Hips Over Rotating in Backswing
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
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
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
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
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
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
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 ...

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Golf Downswing, Rotary Golf Downswing Overview

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Mastering the setup, weight transfer and takeaway are critical to a great golf swing. But mastering the golf downswing is the most important and the most challenging of all. Because it happens so fast and requires so much precision, mastering the downswing will be the crux of learning to become a great ball striker. Be patient with it, the rewards are many and great! However, don't focus on the downswing until you can properly transfer your weight and perform a proper takeaway as these key pieces setup of the downswing.

Most golfers get very excited and want to focus just on the golf downswing because that's the only time you hit the ball. But the reality is, much of the downswing is a response to how you swung the club during the backswing. If your backswing was awful, you don't have much hope for a good downswing and impact position.

The good news is that we have a ton of golf instruction videos on the downswing that walk you through exactly how to get in to tour quality positions and do so with speed and effortless power.

  • The downswing, is the crux of the golf swing
  • The hips can't move as fast as the upper body
  • The main focus of the golf downswing is shifting weight to the left heel
  • The weight shift is NOT a push from the right
  • Sit into the left glute, then pull with the left oblique

All right, So, quick overview of the downswing in RST and what it's really all about.

And what we're going to teach you how to do to hit the ball a long ways with this little effort as humanly possible.

In fact, that's the most common thing that I hear every day in lessons is, I don't feel like I did anything.

It doesn't feel like I'm working hard enough to hit the ball very far, And that's because we're extremely efficient in our movement with RST.

And we look at very heavily the physics involved in what's moving the club and what's creating leverage and speed and rotation and all these things.

In the swing, so that we can create a lot of speed with very little muscular effort.

The big key to that is the swing has to be big body movement, Big muscle, movement driven.

Rather than what most every single other golfer on the planet does, is they focus on moving the club with their arms and their hands and their shoulders.

When you swing from here up, your golf swing will be immediately capped.

You'll never be able to swing, which most people get stuck at, faster than about 92 miles an hour.

You simply don't have enough muscle mass to create enough horsepower to move the club more than about 92 miles an hour with the driver, and that's why most every amateur on the planet is stuck at that speed.

They never get past the triple digit number, But my students with the RST are going to be well over 110 miles an hour when they follow these movements.

The way that we prescribe them.

Because it's incredibly efficient to do so.

You'll be shocked how much speed you can pick up with how little effort you have to put into the swing.

And again, it all starts with the big muscle movements and then the downs, where we've obviously we've talked about the backswing and the takeaway movements.

It's all big body movement.

We're not really even worrying about what our arms or hands are doing.

They're being moved by the body.

The downswing is especially true of that.

What we're going to do in the downswing is we're going to really focus on big muscle movement because we're trying to recruit muscle fiber in a specific sequence.

You need muscle fibers to be loaded in order to move that club fast.

It's that simple.

It's all about it comes down to an economy of scale when it comes down to muscle movement.

Once you're firing with your arms and shoulders, you've only got so much muscle up here.

And even if you're a bodybuilder, you're not going to be able to recruit enough pounds of muscle to swing the club faster than about 90-92 miles an hour.

How much muscle mass does it take to swing over 100 miles an hour?

It's about 32 pounds of muscle.

I don't know about you, I don't have 32 pounds of muscle up here in my arms and shoulders.

I definitely don't have it in my forearm.

So pushing against the shaft and holding on to the club really tight it's the most inefficient way to swing the club.

But I do have 32 pounds of muscle when I use the muscles in my butt, my glutes, my quads, my hamstrings, and my back.

I've got lots of muscle relatively when I put all that together in the right sequence that it's very easy for me to swing over 100 miles an hour.

And you're going to be able to do it too as you start understanding all these movement patterns.

So the first thing from the top of the swing, actually I'm going to do it without my arms again because we don't need to worry about the club, right?

We're focused on big motor movements so we take our club and our arms out of it.

And the first thing I'm going to do here is what?

Shift my weight.

That helps change the direction the club is moving this way to start going the other way without me doing it with tightening up my arms and hands.

The club's got momentum.

It's being swung back here relatively quickly and now you're asking it to change directions and start going this way.

Well, I can take my grip and tighten up and start making the club go this way, but of course that's going to cause me to cast it.

So that's the last thing that I want to do.

So as I start down, what I'm trying to do is shift my weight, use this big muscle mass and that's what's moving the club and my hands and arms can stay relatively relaxed.

And as I do that, I've now created some momentum going this way and as I start to rotate my pelvis this way, again I'll take the club out, now all of a sudden the club has been moved about seven feet in the downswing without me doing anything with my arms or hands or shoulders.

So now as I start down and shift my weight, look where the club is.

I'm literally trying, like I said in the RST overview, to do nothing with my shoulders.

I'm not trying to turn them at all.

If anything, I'm trying to imagine that I'm doing the opposite.

I'm not trying to do really anything with them, But as I start down, I'm just letting them relax and you'll notice as I do this.

And I'm just focusing on the big muscle movements of my trunk and my core, the club is brought down all the way into the hitting area without me doing anything.

So now all I have to do is post up and that is what snaps the release of the club.

Not me doing anything with my arms or hands at all.

The big key focus that you're going to learn as you start going through all these videos is that you're going to focus on shifting your weight, rotating and posting up.

That's the whole movement.

Not trying to do something with your hands or try and drop the club down on plane or any of that stuff.

Watch what happens to the club if I just focus on what I told you.

I'm going to shift my weight, turn my hips and post up.

Watch what happens to the golf club.

I go to the top, arms are where I want them, I didn't have to do anything.

Shift my weight, rotate my hips, post up.

The club fell down on plane and as I post up it would get into a perfect impact position again without me doing anything with my arms or hands.

They're staying soft, they're staying in reserve so that they have speed to release.

When your arms and hands and muscles get really tight you can't move them very fast and tighten yourself up here and try to move as fast as you can.

You just simply can't.

From here up, you're going to feel very relaxed in the rotary swing, and you're not going to feel like you're putting any effort into the swing.

And that's going to be the hardest mental hurdle for you to overcome when you start building a tour caliber golf swing like the Rotary Swing Tour is.

In fact more tour pros use the RST fundamentals than any other swing method out there because these are based on fact, they're based on science.

Now they may use all kinds of different variables of RST and look a little bit different, but when it comes down to the fundamentals of how you move your body, the sequence that you do it, the impact positions that you achieve, how you use lag and leverage for speed, every single tour pro uses these fundamentals or they wouldn't be a tour pro.

So I get asked all the time, which tour pro uses RST?

Well they all do or they wouldn't be out there.

They have to have these basic scientific principles in their golf swing, or the ball is not going to go anywhere, and it's not going to go anywhere very consistently.

So as you start learning this stuff there's lots of different things.

You'll see, we've done lots of Tour Pro reviews on the swing, where we point out what the RST fundamentals that they're using are.

So that you can start kind of picking these things out for yourself and learning, you know, through observation of other great players.

What you need to do in your swing.

And what you're going to find is that they all follow these fundamentals in the downswing.

They shift their weight, they rotate their pelvis, they keep their arms and hands relaxed, relatively relaxed, and they post up on this leg to release the leverage that they have in their swing.

You don't see any tour pros cast in the club, that's all this right side dominant movement that we talk about a lot on the website.

So So as you'll keep learning this stuff, you'll see that you're going to develop literally a tour caliber or better.

Because I mentioned in the overview, most of these guys get injured because they're ignoring some of the key fundamentals of RST.

You can play golf injury free, hit the ball further than you ever have, and be more consistent as you keep going through these videos and learning the RST fundamentals.

Must be Premium Member to Comment

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Rob
I do notice that DJ in a thread below has his shoulders quite open in the impact position. My question is: Is it possible to have your shoulders too open at impact? I am finding that my release is being impeded post impact and believe that my shoulders may be too open leading to blocks. Is this possible??
April 21, 2021
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Rob. Very possible it can happen. With a trail push release a little bit open is ok, but with lead side swinging release you need the shoulders square. Take a look at the Tape Drill and Overview of the Push Release to understand the difference.
April 21, 2021
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Rob
Makes total sense Craig, as my tendency is to push with the trail side without even knowing it is happening. Back to the swing lab for me. Thanks
April 21, 2021
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Peter
What should you suggest to prevent pausing too much at the top and can't seem to start the downswing into the left side. In other words, getting stuck at the top even though the backswing technique looks really good. Can't seem to initiate the weight shift down into the left heel until way too late resulting in the arms stuck at the top for way too long.
October 15, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Peter. Try the drills in Perfecting Your Golf Impact 4 of 4 and Starting the Downswing Before Completing the backswing Videos.
October 15, 2020
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Peter
Thank you. Question on the Starting the Downswing Before Completing the backswing Videos - I tried to find them on the website and wasn't successful. Could you give me the exact names of the best ones you recommend.
October 15, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Peter. Start Downswing Before Completing Backswing/Perfect your golf impact - 4 of 4.
October 15, 2020
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Peter
Thank you.
October 16, 2020
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Jim
Hi Craig. Everything looks good in my swing until I get in front of the ball. On my backswing my head slightly moves up and on the downswing it drops down. It doesn't happen when I am doing the drills. Do you know what is causing this?
October 8, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jim. The head moving up tend to be improper loading, or flattening of the shoulder plane. Downswing it will drop as you squat and add some knee flexion. I'm thinking with the ball you pace picks up and the arms start to take over the top of the backswing.
October 8, 2020
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Jim
Thanks Craig. That makes sense. I looked at some videos and you are correct that my shoulders are flat. I appreciate your response. Thanks.
October 9, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jim. Happy to help.
October 9, 2020
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Gavin
Hi Craig, Any update mate?
October 3, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Gavin. When you reply to your own comment. The system doesn't notify me there is a question. My apologies for late return.
October 5, 2020
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Gavin
Hi Craig As per below, I'm trying to squat, post and push the left hip back, I have been looking at other Pros swings as per DJ below and looks like I'm missing the right side push?
September 28, 2020
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Gavin
Swing below
September 28, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Gavin. DJ is having to make counter adjustments for some of his swing positions. Because of how shut he is at the top. He needs to push to keep from hooking the ball. You don't require more trail side push in your image.
October 5, 2020
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Gavin
I'm losing posture though right, to me that's because I'm posting up
October 8, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Gavin. Losing posture is caused by the early extension. Think of You Hit the Golf Ball with Your Legs and Clamshell Videos. Properly clearing the lead actually drops the spine angle.
October 8, 2020
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Gavin
DJ
September 28, 2020
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Gavin
Hi Craig I have been working on the drill as requested, the feel I have is trying to leave the club at the top while squatting-pulling down with the legs only using nothing else or that is the feel I have, I have attached a still not sure if it helps. Should I also be trying to pull with the left arm to keep lag? I'm guessing at this point I should be more posted or finished the post move? I seem to be getting good speeds with 116mph Swing Speed and 169mph ball speed 304yds Carry, the irons for instance a 5iron I'm getting 106mph swing speed and 144mph ball speed around 228yds, in comparison Does that seem right? I think I tend to do the squat move better as I'm closer to the ball.
September 23, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Gavin. Your numbers are pretty good. The weight shift/core will help pull your lead arm into impact. So it won't solely be gravity. It is a blend of both. You may feel some lead lat aiding to pull the arms in front. Slightly less stance width and a little more weight, but better than the last review.
September 24, 2020
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Gavin
Thanks for the response Craig. Do you have an image of Chuck at this stage to see how stacked over the ball he is? Also, I think there should be more lag?
September 25, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Gavin. You have plenty of lag. Just arms a little out of sync. I don't have a Driver FO. But, an older swing would be in the Using the Core Video.
September 25, 2020
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Gavin
Image attached
September 23, 2020
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Gavin
Hi Craig What was that video number and title you wanted me to watch from my online lesson, I checked the road show lessons number 9 didn’t look like the one. Cheers
August 25, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Gavin. That was the roadshow. You will notice in the video that Chuck wants the student to aggressively use the transition to make the ratio of lower body to arms more 2:1 feeling. I need you to do less with the arms in transition and more with being dynamic pressing into the ground to bring the club down.
August 25, 2020
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Gavin
Whats the number and the title, they all have numbers and titles. Cheers,
August 25, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Lesson 9 - How to Shallow the Golf Club Like the Pros with One Move
August 25, 2020
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Duc
Hello. I know this is posted to the wrong video, but I couldn't get the comments option to work on "the delcelerate your hips video at impact". Chuck makes a lot of sense, but as I post up and push down and forward with my left leg to post up and push my left hip back, I feel as though I'm also pushing my weight back more than I should. How do I balance the drive to push that left hip back during the post up yet still be able to keep my weight shifting forward?
August 17, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Duc. When you begin posting up you shouldn't have a lot of weight transfer left. You still have some, but not the dynamic move of weight that there will be in transition. I would check to make sure you are getting enough in transition before posting.
August 17, 2020
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Duc
thanks for the quick reply. Yes sir, I should have most of my wgt on my left leg, but I guess when I post up and push back at the angle Chuck talks about on the video, I'm pushing up and back with my left leg rather than straight up. So it feels like I'm pushing myself back onto my right/trail leg. Does that make sense?
August 17, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Duc. Gotcha. That sounds like you are over cooking the motion. You don't want to hyper extend the lead knee, or so forceful the weight falls back. Take a look at You Hit the Golf Ball with Your Legs and Perfecting Lower Body Stability.
August 17, 2020
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Jim
Hi, what generates hand speed? How do I get a good lag that isn't too slow? Is it a faster transition, more leg drive in some way?
July 19, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jim. Lag will be created by the change of direction during weight shift. And, the snap will be provided by a powerful post up move. Take a look at the 9 to 3 Lag Building Drills and How Swing Speed Affects Compression for some good drills. This will help you tackle both items.
July 20, 2020
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Rayan
Chuck, Chris, anybody, Please help me learn how to “hit through” the ball. I notice when I practice my swing without a ball I swing all the way through with very good speed, but when a ball is there my swing does NOT continue through the ball with similar speed. My swing appears to slow down at impact. Are there any drills I can do the help me remedy this problem.
July 7, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Rayan. After impact it really doesn't matter. However, take a look at the Two Club Drill. Learn how to feel the momentum of the club pulling you through.
July 7, 2020
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Rayan
It doesn’t matter after impact, I get that, but my speed slows down “at and through” impact. What I’m trying to figure out is how do I NOT lose speed “at and through” impact, because Shouldn't your speed continue at and through impact, and then slow down after impact? Sorry for the confusion.
July 12, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Raylan. No apologies for the confusion. I would like to see a video to confirm why the speed is being lost. It sounds like you are flipping and not releasing. Therefore, the momentum doesn't carry through. You don't need to try and hit through the ball. You want the speed snapped into the strike. Try to make sure the speed is delivered properly with How Swing Speed Affects Compression Video and Throw the Club Head at the Golf Ball. If you have a review due up soon I would be happy to put full concentration on this point.
July 12, 2020
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Rayan
Craig, thanks for the quick reply. I will definitely look at the two videos you mentioned. I do have some video reviews available as I haven’t used any this year. Thanks, I‘ll be submitting one within a week from today. Again, thank you and Rotary Swing for all that you do. Greatly appreciated.
July 12, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Rayan. Absolutely. Our pleasure to help. Just remind me in the notes on the review.
July 13, 2020
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Greg
Hi In the 4-5 minutes time of this video - talking about post up ... I struggle with this ... am I looking for a 'straight' knee ..or a knee that is 'locked up' ( approx 10-15 degrees further ) Thanks for help on what I need to look for ... Greg
July 6, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Greg. Straight leg, and not locked out. Think about it like standing straight up and down talking to someone. No need to hyper extend.
July 6, 2020
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bob
I squat to square just fine but hips stay square thru impact. Any suggestions on how to overcome this power robbing move? Or lack of movement?
July 5, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Bob. You Hit the Golf Ball With Your Legs and Perfecting Lower Body Stability Videos should provide some aid.
July 6, 2020
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Mark
Just to be clear, it is the left oblique that turns the hips in the downswing, and the glutes are used purely for vertical movement/support?
June 9, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Mark. The glutes will be used more for hip stabilization and the pull of leverage from the ground. The obliques will aid in the hip rotation.
June 9, 2020
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Nick
Thanks Craig, you’re right, this will be a game changer for me. The video addresses all the issues in my swing. I’m anticipating having to make sure my weight shift and post up cause my hands to move vertically down. I don’t want to start pulling them down independently and ruining the sequence.
May 24, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Great Nick. Yes, don't forget about the body. But, I think that drill will be the cure for you.
May 25, 2020
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Nick
In this video Chuck demonstrates how the club responds to the weight shift and post up by falling down into the delivery position. When I do it, even when my top half is completely relaxed and my shoulders are held back, my hands come out towards the ball. How should I practice this?
May 23, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Nick. Take a look at Roadshow Lesson 10. Instruction Tab ---> Free Roadshow --> Lesson 10. Watch the whole thing. 30 mins into will be a game changer for you.
May 23, 2020
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Mayur
Hello Craig, Just wanted to start a new feed. When it pertains to the downswing, I am finding it hard to sequence everything. I do the squat and transfer of weight pretty well, but I cannot seem to keep my spine angle. Most of my drives were going very well, but I was blocking them to the right on the last two holes I played. Lastly, should my head stay behind the ball during the downswing or should it move in front of the ball?
May 14, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Mayur. The head should stay behind the ball. I haven't seen a Face On, so it would be tough to tell with the hips. But, i would imagine your arms started lagging behind your body turn with some trail hip push. I have seen from Down the Line the dramatic increase in secondary tilt. Take a look at the Level Shoulders Drill.
May 15, 2020
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Mayur
Will do. At the start of the downswing, is it correct that the weight shift happens while the head stays still? Or should it move a little to the left?
May 15, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Mayur. As you transition to the lead side the head will have to move slightly as you are pulling the weight back.
May 15, 2020
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Mayur
Hello, I was hitting some golf shots today. I think my backswing is fine for the most part; however, I still tend to hit the ball fat. Should I focus more on bringing the club out in front of me on the transition?
May 13, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Mayur. The added lift at the top forces you to wait a lot in the downswing. You must be very passive during the transition phase. The issue is you are very dynamic with the body. Good/dynamic body coming down with high arms/right elbow fly cause you to get stuck and push with trail arm too much into the shot.
May 13, 2020
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Mayur
Hello Craig, thank you for your quick response and great swing review. What do you mean by lift?
May 13, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Mayur. Your arms tend to have over elevation. The hands/arms get disconnected from the box. If your trail arm wasn't so high and behind you wouldn't get as stuck coming down.
May 14, 2020
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Mayur
How does this position look, Craig?
May 14, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Mayur. If you uploaded a picture. It seems it didn't post.
May 14, 2020
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Mayur
How about now?
May 14, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Better. Still some lead arm across the chest trending to get deep. More below.
May 14, 2020
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Mayur
I see. So, what video would I need to watch in order to fix it?
May 14, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Mayur. 5 Minutes to the Perfect Backswing, 5 Minutes to the Perfect Backswing Pitfalls, and 3 Functions of the Right Arm. Those are the mechanical versions. Simple drill would be the Winter Golf Training Program - Backswing Video.
May 14, 2020
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Mark
I have been working on full swings into a net. I feel like I am learning a good feel for the sequencing of the hips and arm lag. Once in a while I inadvertently add push from my right lat and bicep, right around the point that the club gets back to horizontal (at least thats how it feels). When this happens it I smash the hell out of it with awesome compression and (apparently) straight. So I am guessing that this is desirable, but only as long as you are getting near/to release. Is this correct? Is there a video/drill for teaching your brain to do this naturally at the right moment?
April 24, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Mark. Take a look at Throw the Ball Drill and Right Arm Release. Trail side will add power, but only if lead is mastered first!
April 25, 2020
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Mary
Hi Chris I am doing the current boot camp which is fabulous. In my last review you recommended looking at a video of student Tom S. Chuck and you recommended he do FAST FULL SPEED with core so he would not use his right shoulder on transition. I can not find the video.. Thanks for your help Mary
April 19, 2020
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Hi Mary, thanks for the comment and so glad to hear you are enjoying the camp. Here is the video I spoke of...https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gR0AO8KXYdw Looking forward to helping you as much as we possibly can.
April 20, 2020
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Steven
I am having trouble keeping shoulders level down to impact. Also difficulty getting left side stacked at impact as I tend to angle back from the hips up to the head, especially with shorter clubs. Any suggestions as how to stack up? Best drills? Thanks.
March 29, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Steven. Take a look at Level Shoulders Drill. Sounds like you may be adding some trail push.
March 30, 2020
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Todd
Craig et al, At the beginning of a round I’m starting strong with the driver. Somewhere along the way, I start consistently driving low but straight drives. Unfortunately the low trajectory eats yardage as it has early ground contact. I make sure I’ve got axis tilt and forward ball at set up. An experienced golfer told me that he thought I was “popping up early” in the downswing. I don’t know if I’m posting early or what....any emphasis areas that I can do to ensure Im hitting up on the drive or other drills to help with this? Thanks
March 23, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Todd. It sounds like early posting, but the main issue people have with driver (if setup correct) is they don't allow the driver to swing through and catch the ball at its new location. Make sure you allow the club to swing through and strike it on the up swing. Take a look at You Throw the Club Head at the Golf Ball Video. Proper setup and let the club do the work.
March 24, 2020
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Ron
Chris, Hi! Congratulations on your marriage. I have a question regarding swing reviews. I have not submitted any since becoming a member of RST in August of 2018. This is strictly on me and the fact that I'm somewhat challenged when it comes to technology. When the dead drill surfaced awhile back I did participate in the original group. I've arrived at a spot now that I would like to begin to submit videos of my swing. Should I start at set-up and progress on through the steps or would you recommend me doing something different? Thank you, Ron H.
March 19, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Ron. I will pass on the good word to Chris. Yes. Start with setup and send some drills. Most efficient and best way to use the swing reviews.
March 19, 2020
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Robert
This has nothing to do with this video but all of the videos. I have been a member since last summer and most of the videos are distorted. What I mean is that the videos either stop or the video is scrambled which makes watching it very aggravating. I should have informed earlier on but there isn't any way of contacting you other than to comment on these videos. Is there anyway of correcting these problems?
March 18, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Robert. We have had any repost of errors on videos. If you are getting distortion that sounds more like a bandwidth issue. However, most errors with the site are corrected after clearing cache/history and re-logging into the site.
March 18, 2020
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Richard
does that answer mean the post up aids the opening of the hip until we come to the end of the post up with right foot still grounded causes the brakes to be slammed?
March 2, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Richard. Yes. As you begin the post the lead leg will straighten as the hip move away from the from the ball. When you are fully contracted with the glutes and trail foot is behaved. The proverbial brakes will slam and let the club snap through.
March 2, 2020
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Richard
in some videos it seems like the post up move helps or even causes the hips to rotate or open and in others I get the idea that the rotation takes place than the post up actually slams the brakes which causes the release or snap of the club,can you clear me up so I understand how to preform these movements?
March 1, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Richard. The hips are always rotating into impact in the downswing. Take a look at Closed Hip Slide and You Hit the Golf Ball with Your Legs. The post up clears and slams on the brakes to trigger the release of the club.
March 2, 2020
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Bret
So is it accurate to say on the downswing there is zero manipulation of the hands/wrists/arms and it’s 100% a result of the big muscles and gravity pulling everything into place?
February 4, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Bret. Yes, the big muscles pull the arms down. The release happens due to club design and the body slamming on the brakes. You shouldn't be trying to manipulate the arms/plane/etc..
February 4, 2020
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william
hello how are you? working hard 9 to 3 drill have 1 question. i have the movement right do i start down swing by pulling down with the hosel first let the club square by turning of the body. when i try square the club by rotating the arms i hit it fat or use to much right shoulder.
January 29, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello William. You let the lower half start to pull the club down. The squaring will happen because the body slows down and the club head accelerates independently of the body. Take a look at the Frisbee Drill and Arms vs Body Release. Don't worry about squaring the face so much from the top until you get the sequence correct of the body pulling the arm down onto plane and with lag.
January 29, 2020
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ryan
im having major issues on the post up. it looks so easy, yet every time i do it, my left shoulder goes up. if you are straightening your left leg, and moving your left hip up and back, how is it even possible for the left shoulder, not to do the same thing? I cant seem to figure this out yet in chucks videos, he seems to be able to keep that left shoulder down. it doesn't make sense to me. also it only seems to make sense that as you straighen your left leg, you are going upwards, so how does your head not move up as well? so confused.
January 18, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Ryan. Take a look at You Hit the Golf Ball with Your Legs Video. Posting Up properly will actually help you retain spine angle and stay more stable into impact. Your lead leg is straitening, but the hip is moving rotationally back behind you. Think about the trail hip line. You don't appear to sway off the ball laterally because the hip is rotating even though you are shifting weight. If the lead shoulder is very high after post up the only way for it to get there is excessive secondary axis tilt and/or you moved them there.
January 18, 2020
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ryan
Craig, i think i just had a EUREKA! moment. so as my straightening my left leg, im not actively pulling my hip up for the 'up and back' move.. the up part is happening by the straightening of the leg.. so really, only have to think about rotating the hip. so the rotation plus the straightening of the leg, gives it the up and back of the hip! is this correct?
January 18, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Ryan. Yes, you don't need to force the up movement by the hip. Sounds like you need to focus more on the pulling away as the lead leg straightens.
January 18, 2020
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ryan
thats what i was doing wrong,.. i was trying to pull my hip 'up and back' when really u just need to rotate it.. and straighten your leg..
January 18, 2020
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Raymond
Just want to say THANK YOU CHUCK for providing this valuable info. I struggled out there and all my golf buddies want to help me and everyone of them just confused me more. They meant well and a couple of them are really good golfers but they don't know how to translate their understanding of how to swing into words that make sense to me. They had me twist my body this way and that way and it just doesn' work. I just watched the 9-3 drill and started using it out on the course and surprised myself at how much easy the golf swing really is when u sequence the movements correctly. They think ur selling a product and it doesnt work and I should listen to them because they play with me and see my swing every day. Therefore they know better. Well I never listen to them and just by applying ur info, my swing have gotten better. Their ego were a lil hurt every time I hit the ball well and not using their suggestion but hey that's their problem. LOL
January 1, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Raymond. Many thanks. I will relay to Chuck. Happy New Year and thank you for providing us with an opportunity to improve your game. I can promise you we aren't trying to sell a product. Lol. All of us are just tired of seeing frustrated golfers not being told the facts about the swing. We teach a swing based solely on science. Will be hard to prove us wrong. .
January 1, 2020
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M. (Certified RST Instructor)
Hi Graig, my question is: How far in front do your hands have to be from your thighs at the post up moment in downswing, above the toes of your rear foot, in front of foot or at same location as in set up? Thanks for helping!
November 26, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Marcel. I don't want you to try a force a position as this will be more working through a spot in the swing as a byproduct. But, the hands will be roughly just in front of the toes and pretty close to the chin line.
November 26, 2019
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Paul
With my backswing being all core (the BOX) I am not using my shoulders and get a Massive turn, I find it hard to begin with weight shift and hips to start downswing. So, instead its a right side dominate but no arms and my drives are very far and all fades. My irons too. HELP. Now that I’ve been sold on the BOX, I can’t start down easily because my Right Shoulder glide and box is so wound up!
November 2, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Paul. You want to recruit all the good muscle fiber on the backswing, but release the tension at the proper time. Take a look at Keep the Rear Shoulder Back Video. Work hard on not spinning from the top feeling the lower half pull the shoulders into position. Followed by making sure you release with the arms and not the body. Arms vs Body Release. The DEAD Drills are very good at working you through progression of the body to --> release.
November 2, 2019
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Paul
I found the culprit— I had a flying R elbow with my massive BOX TURN/GLIDE. When I keep my arms closer together there is no flying Right elbow, and I can begin easier with a weight shift and LEFT LAT. I need to work on the release. Thanks for the hel;p.
November 3, 2019
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Aaron
Just got my swing reviewed by Chris and his comments were spot on based on seeing my swing on video and what others have said. My major problem as of late has been hooking/pulling basically everything, but especially fairway woods/driver. I have difficulty 'feeling' what a proper downswing is supposed to feel like from top to bottom. I'm a very 'armsy' swinger. I like swing thoughts (so please feel free to send me some) even though i can never remember them all.
September 16, 2019
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Hi Aaron, make sure you mention this stuff to me in your notes when your are due for your next review so I can take a close look at why this is happening. You could be battling with too much secondary axis tilt and using way to much right hand and arm down at the release, which can shut the face down pretty quickly. I would try and make sure you are less tilty at impact and get the right hand to feel as though it is coming off the club, much like the lose the right hand drill. Hope that helps.
September 18, 2019
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Christopher
Wish there was some drill or good explanation to teach the squat / hip bump / turn / post up properly. Have corrected so many things and come a long way in golf with RST and this is the only thing I cannot grasp no matter what , it just doesn’t translate to me and my body. Not being able to do this wrecks my swing and any consistent play. I get many thin shots and shots that go straight then literally curve right hard.
August 29, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Christopher. The DEAD Drill and Step 2 - Core Rotation is exactly geared to that. You need to perform the motion in front of a mirror body only first. Don't over complicate the goal. Watch yourself so you can start to blend the feel and real.
August 29, 2019
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Christopher
Can’t find the dead drill video anywhere on the site.
August 29, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Christopher. It was sent via email to all the members. It is on our YouTube page.
August 30, 2019
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Ronan
Hey Guys, Do you have to litteraly feel that the right hand is only supporting the club at the top of the backswing, and no more involvment than that ? Ronan
August 29, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Ronan. Yes, that's the feel you are looking for.
August 29, 2019
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William (Certified RST Instructor)
thanks that helps. Could i ask you the same question for the release. Having a hard time getting the feel of it. ive been repping the 5 min to perfect release alot but when i start adding in the weight shift my hands start arriving late to impact and are releasing late
August 22, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello William. This one is a little different. My advice/feel is completely contrary to what most golfers should feel. I already pull so hard I feel I release it straight from the top. The vast majority of players would come completely over the top is they did this. It sounds like you need to add a little more hips to trigger the proper release and you need to delete that tension. Go to Chris's video Play the Best Golf Of Your Life in 6 Weeks 2,3,4 of 6. This will help you start releasing at the proper time with added component of body.
August 22, 2019
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William (Certified RST Instructor)
Hows it going craig. What do you personally feel is the first move when you start your downswing. In other words what do you feel that you are moving first. I know that its supposed to be knee then hip, but sometimes the feel and real are different as you know. thanks
August 21, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello William. Hope all is well today. Yes, sadly feel and real are two different things. And, what I feel may not be necessarily what you feel. Feel can be a little subjective and tough to teach. We try to stick in the objective territory. However, I personally feel pushing my left foot into the ground. When I reach the top and start transitioning I want to feel my lead foot push into the ground to make sure weight gets transferred and I settle into the lead glute.
August 21, 2019
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Julie
What should the loft of my driver be? Right now I am playing with a driver that is 12 degrees. I hit the ball about 212 yard carry and 235 yards Total . My ball flight is Pretty high and I would like a more Penetrating flight. Thank you.
June 25, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Julie. I would need more information to give you the correct loft. Swing speed, AOA, and other factors play into the precise loft. It sounds like your swing speed is low 90's which is probably why you have a little more loft. You need to work on increasing the speed and changing your AOA (Angle of Attack) to get the preferred ball flight.
June 25, 2019
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Julie
O.k. So should I keep the 12 degrees of loft? Thanks
June 25, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Julie. For now you are more than likely okay. As your mechanics and speed become improved. Then, I would start to check the loft.
June 25, 2019
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Julie
O.k. Thank you
June 25, 2019
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Chris
Hi Guys, Am I correct in saying that a good weight shift back to the ball (downswing transition) will feel like the weight is in my left heel (RH golfer) - when making the squat move?
June 17, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Chris. Exactly. I usually tell the students lead heel/lead glute will be the awareness.
June 18, 2019
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John
as the weight moves to the left leg is the weight on the inside or outside of the left foot. I keep my left knee in and the weight on the inside of the foot to avoid sliding, but wonder if it is costing me club head speed.
June 5, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello John. The weight will be on the inside/center of the ankle joint on the lead foot. Sliding to the outside will cause issues.
June 5, 2019
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charles
What s the trigger to keep my left arm straight after impact. My,left arm bends?,
May 19, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Charles. Take a look at Cure Chicken Wing and Side Bend in the Golf Downswing. The key is to release the lead side properly. When the trail hand takes over too soon the lead arm will bend.
May 20, 2019
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David
In a recent video Chuck did with a young lady on sequencing he emphasized that the lead leg was to be fully posted up when the hands get in front of the trail thigh and then release from there. In this video it looks like it is closer to impact that the lead leg gets fully posted. So if you video from face on where should your hands be when your lead leg gets fully extended and lead hip is pushed up and back?
May 12, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello David. The post up will be finished right before impact to help decelerate the body and allow the release to fire/accelerate. The drill has you complete the body motion before the release to help with sequencing. The movement is going by so fast I don't want you focused on trying to place a certain position. Think about it as shift, post and release. Shift the weight, begin to post and by the time the post up is nearing completion with the hands in front of the trail thigh the club will release. You won't have any active hip motion from here.
May 12, 2019
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Anthony
On the downswing, I feel that in order to release the club and hit the ball squarely, momentum from the swinging club causes pressure to move towards the front of my left foot (big toe). When I try to have "All" of my pressure move toward the left heel, I come across the ball and at best toe it. Can you elaborate for me some additional facts about weight vs pressure in front of the left foot?
May 3, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Anthony. The toes will provide some stability and support. But, the weight shoulder be over the ankle joint. It sounds like you are getting way back on the heel and spinning the body/shoulders open. Once, you plant the lead heel/ankle. You have to make sure not to spin the shoulders too much and the hips. Work on the Keep the Rear Shoulder Back and the Moving the Fulcrum Video for the shoulder spin and How to Swing From the Ground Up for the weight placement.
May 3, 2019
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Robert
I am toping the ball too much on the downswing that and shanking the ball at 45% to the left, what may it be.
April 23, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Robert. Tops are usually from lack of weight shift and improper lead shoulder position. Take a look at Sitting Into the Left Side, Moving the Fulcrum and Taking a Divot Video. The shank is usually lack of release and hip push. Take a look at How to Cure the Shanks in 3 Steps.
April 24, 2019
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Eddie
Hey there! Lifelong golfer. Good player , long knocker until I blew out a disc in neck lifting weights. Lost right tri and lat and picked up a fatal flaw in the initiation stage of downswiNg in an effort to regain lost distance. In an attempt to increase length of backswing i ended up lifting the club at the start of the downswiNg. It felt like the swing was longer but wasn’t. Consequently I am too steep and I just can’t loose the lift. I tried everything ..eg thinking about skipping a stone across water, squeezing the elbows. Elbow to hip. Help!
April 17, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Eddie. Take a look at the Frisbee Drill. You need to have hyper focus on weight shift starting the transition and pulling the arms down. Starting with lead arm only will start to curtail the initial lift to start. Also, understand what creates proper plane. How to Fix Plane and Path Video.
April 17, 2019
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sambhu
Is sitting onto left glute and pulling with left oblique same as posting on left leg?
March 25, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Sambhu. Sitting into the left glute will be the shift/squat into the lead side. Posting will be using the oblique to clear the hip out of the way.
March 25, 2019
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Jeff
Please tell me what I should be seeing in my videos during self analysis as is pertains to certain points of movement and where the club shaft is during that movement as viewed from a DTL video. Squat to square: as the arms, which are doing nothing, are moved as a result of that move---where should the club shaft be intersecting the body viewed from DTL?? Rotating the hips in order to open them up--where should the club shaft be?? would I be correct if I said that the club shaft should be bisecting the trail arm's forearm?? (on plane) When posting up: the club shaft should be staying on the same plane as the forearm in the above move as the club head moves towards the ball??? When I record the downswing and then look at the video on my iPad as I practice I want to know if I'm performing this correctly by looking at these checkpoints.
March 11, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello William. It would be hard to describe in words the exact positions. As we relate it more towards the elbow plane line versus using specific body points. Yes, it will be slightly on top of the trail forearm after you shift and start to post up halfway down. And, it should stay on plane as you enter the strike. But, I don't want to give false specifics based on someones body type. My suggestion. Upload a swing for review. Ask the instructor to show you exactly how your plane should work back and through pertaining to your swing. Therefore, you will know exactly how to diagnose. I will be happy to do that for you as well if you upload a swing.
March 11, 2019
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Rich
I need to address some observable conflictions with the idea of “tension” or strong muscle contraction, so that I can apply the moves better. If I completely relax the arms and use the core to turn back, I can literally leave the club dangling down. So there must surely be some effort of the arms to move the club back. Once at the top, I’m aware that the arms are in essence – although very briefly – balancing the club so that it doesn’t just flop back. I’m sure somewhere this will be correct and it is the shift to the left which stops it “flopping” at the top. But then, how does Matsuyama maintain such a long pause at the top? Surely he is contracting his arms and shoulder to keep the club at the top for so long (and then he releases or relaxes). Finally, “pushing down with the heel”. Patrick Reed, Justin Thomas, Bubba Watson, can all be seen to be on their TOES through impact. I don’t mean to sound like a doubter but when I see these things conflicting with what I read and watch on RST, I need some further understanding. Thanks,
March 8, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Richard. Take a look at Patrick Reed - Right Foot Brake. You should see that he really doesn't have a lot of trail foot movement into impact. The foot comes up after the release. Also, watch Who Cares What Tour Pros Do? Video. Just because a pro is doing a certain move. That doesn't make it right, or bio-mechanically efficient. We want all of our players to not only be good, but safe swinging the club. There is a difference between being dead and relaxed/ready to work. Take a look at Proper Muscle Activation. I don't want the swing to be floppy with the arms. Enough tension to support and work. But, not overly steer and manipulate the club all over the place. Engaged and ready to fire. I agree. Limp noodle is going too far to the extreme.
March 8, 2019
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Rich
Re the footwork, I was meaning the left foot. I've seen the video about the pros and I get that, it was more that my reviewer was saying I had too much tension when I'm only griping at like a 4/10, much less felt like as you describe, a limp noodle with no control of the face. Thanks
March 8, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Richard. Gotcha. Some players allow for their lead foot to move a little. Preferably, I would like for it to stay down. But, not the biggest deal breaker. Tension is a tough cat to tackle. Because it's about having tension in the right place at the right time. Engaged and ready to work, not overly soft.
March 8, 2019
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Richard
My question is in regard to movement of my right leg in the downswing(I'm rt handed). instead of rolling into the inside of my right front with rt knee moving toward left knee my rt knee kicks out toward the ball. I still maintain my spine angle and hips stay back but my rt leg kicks out. I think this ultimately slows hips from turning a creates a flipping of my hands.
March 2, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Richard. Typically, the trail knee driving towards the ball will create early extension. When you do this you start eating up space needed for the downswing. Which can lead to flipping the hands to get unstuck. The trail leg should follow the lead side. Work hard on Role of the Right Foot and Early Extension Video.
March 2, 2019
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Victor
Hi Craig, it's me again. After watching so many videos, I am starting to get a bit confused on the term weight shift. After I completed the backswing and cocked my wrist properly, by weight shift does it mean I need to move my hip horizontally to the left like ←, or even a bit like ↙, horizontally? Or does the weight shifting motion itself already involve rotation? Like ↶ + ← ? I need to let my conscious mind know how my hip should move during weight shift, thank you so much!
February 25, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Victor. Weight shift in the downswing will be lateral and rotational. I think a good visual for you would be the Closed Hip Slide Video. After watching that video. Let me know if you need more detail.
February 26, 2019
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Victor
Understood, thanks for your reply again! I shall let you know if I have further question after watching that video.
February 26, 2019
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Richard
I am not clear on when the hips rotate on some videos especially road show with students Chuck seems to try to get them them to shift weight than immediately post up and other videos like this one he mentions shift weight then rotate the pelvis and after that post up.I realize we are talking fractions of seconds here but I think it makes a difference for me to understand this area just prior to impact as much as possible.
February 20, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Richard. As you shift/squat the hips will have to rotate to square (Squat to Square Video and Closed Hip Slide Video). Once, the hips reach square and weight has been shifted. It is time to post up.
February 20, 2019
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John
Hi Craig, In your reply you say rotate to square. Does this mean you hips will not be open at contact? It looks like all the pros are open at contact.
February 21, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello John. As you shift from trail to lead side the hips will square (they will be closed in the backswing). From there you will post up to 30-45 degrees open at impact.
February 21, 2019
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Daniel
There is a mountain of advise about keeping the arms in front of ones self on the backswing. Then the downswing concentrates on using the big muscles to pull the upper body down through impact. As much as I work on weight shift and hip rotation , once I reach impact my core tends to stop rotating and the arms continue across my body and shoulder plane. This results in pulls left as one might imagine if the arms come across the body too soon. It seems if I concentrate on keeping my arms in front of myself well past impact I end up in better position and full extension. This requires concentration on something above the areas of the body Chuck mentions concentrating on in the downswing and also seems to mean that the follow through (post impact) is more important than mentioned. Should the idea of keeping the hands in front of the body be maintained to and through impact or am I missing something else? Thanks, Dan...
February 18, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Dan. The arms should remain in front back and through (Arms vs Body Release, Side Bend in the Downswing and Cure the Chicken Wing Video). If they swipe or swing left at impact, or quickly after. You will start to see some errors in the ball flight.
February 19, 2019
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Robert
Craig: Am I correct in stating that my weight shift towards the target(stomping on my lead heel) occurs while my back is still turning away from the target. At this point my lead leg is still slightly bent. Then I "post up"( straighten my lead leg) a few milliseconds BEFORE the club releases or at exactly the same time as the club releases? I thought the force of posting up is what actually releases the club.
February 16, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Rob. Yes, you will start to shift back to the lead side slightly before reaching the top position. And, after you have completed the shift. Posting up will trigger the release. The force of the post up is what triggers the club to go down and out.
February 16, 2019
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Gary
Everyone talks about getting the club out in front of the body on the downswing - how does one get the club in front from the transition to the downswing? I somehow always feel the club behind me not in front. With this happening my mind wants to throw the right shoulder out towards the ball to compensate. Would appreciate some feedback Thank you
February 15, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Gary. The lead lat will aid in pulling the arms in front. Keep working on lead side training to allow for this to happen. Left Arm Only Downswing Drill Video. The reason you want to throw with your trail shoulder is it feels powerful. The problem is you don't want power at the top with your pushing force. Most players swing their arms to the top and build tension (not rotate). The body now wants to release this tension and therefore players use a lot of arms/upper body to start transition. Tension and trail side dominance issue.
February 15, 2019
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jesse
Hey Craig, I worked today mostly on sitting in the left flute and pulling with the left oblique. I did hit some flush shots. I had a tendency to hit a lot of pulls as well. A majority of them started left of my line. Toe shots as well. Thoughts?
January 18, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jesse. Left flute? . Two items. 1) Make sure your shoulders are square at impact. 2) Gradual release and not a flip. Take a look at Moving the Fulcrum and Flip vs. Release Video.
January 18, 2019
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jesse
GLUTE lol. Awesome I’ll work on those.
January 18, 2019
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Chad
Hello, I was just at the simulator(I live in MN) and was working on downswing transition. Do you want to keep your left shoulder closed as much as possible at impact? I think I've always had an open position at impact so this feels weird but I gained about 5 mph and was making great contact.
January 17, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Chad. You want to keep your back to the target as long as possible. Love the gain in speed. Take a look at Keep the Rear Shoulder Back Video.
January 18, 2019
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Donald
I'm confused whether I should be focusing on squatting to square in the initial part of the downswing or sitting into my left glute/pumping my hips..?? Is one move better than the other or do they essentially achieve the same thing..?? Thanks and a happy New Year from Scotland..!!
December 31, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Donald. Essentially doing the same thing. The goal is to shift weight and settle into the glutes. When you do this the weight should be over on the lead side with the hips square. Squat to square I think is a great visual for the first part of the downswing. Shift into your squat and allow the hips to square.
December 31, 2018
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Ron
Should the shoulders be moving perpendicular to the address spine angle in the takeaway? Looking at my takeaway, it seems my shoulders are flattening out. Would a good thought be to feel like the left shoulder is pointing down? I'm right handed
December 18, 2018
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Ron
Thanks, I looked at the video and will give it a try today.
December 19, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Ron. I have just the cure for you. Take a look at Golf Backswing Shoulder Plane Drill Video. Sounds like you maybe flattening out too much.
December 18, 2018
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Ron
When I start my downswing, I'm focusing on squat to square as the initial move. I'm finding that if I keep my trail foot on the ground and roll over the inside of it as I swing through it seems to keep me from over using my trail shoulder. Does this make sense to you?
November 26, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Ron. Most players that push with the trail foot tend to shoulder spin as well. Sounds like it's just helping you quiet down excessive trail side push. That's a good thing.
November 26, 2018
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van
Craig, I am a little confused re the timing of the right oblique and right glute release- Do I do my best to hold on to the tension in the right oblique until I complete the move onto my left hip? Secondly when does the loading of the left oblique occur? I am beginning to think that the light bulb is starting to illuminate - to some extent at least
November 22, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Van. Yes, you need to maintain that tension when shifting the body onto the lead side. The core will be engaged and the trail glute will help stabilize the hip to shy away from early extension. The left oblique will aid in squaring the hips when shifting back to the lead side, but fire/pull more when positing up/clearing the hips.
November 22, 2018
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David
Guys, i am still not quite getting this downswing move, when it works it really works, but a lot of the time i am either moving my upper body when shifting the weight and getting ahead of the ball and blocking it or i just want to rotate the upper body like crazy from the top and so get a low left pull. I also find it happens just after i have hit a very good shot and so perhaps get a little excited i can do the same again (Tempo gets a bit quick and i "jump" at the shot)!!
November 16, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello David. When you fall into that rut. Go back to some Weight Shift Sweep Drills and the RST Tempo Drill to dial back in starting with weight shift. Combine with Keep the Rear Shoulder Back to shy away from shoulder spin.
November 16, 2018
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richard
after hitting balls for 15 min, using the proper steps, weight shift , good should rotation hitting alittle draw with my 3 hybrid, than I start leaving my shots out to the right, getting the body out in front past joint alignment or not transferring into joint alignment the cause, or does fatigue start in .. and my movements slows down too much
November 11, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Richard. Sounds like you start pushing out of neutral, or add shoulder spin. Take a look at Preventing Hip Pain and Keep the Rear Shoulder Back Video. As a side note, when working on the newer positions fatigue can set in quickly.
November 11, 2018
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Giap
I’m still confused on the release. If Chuck is saying that the post-up triggers the release then do you not do anything with your wrists?
November 11, 2018
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Andrew (Certified RST Instructor)
Correct. However, if when you video yourself you notice that during post-impact you lack a proper passive release (i.e. chicken wing) you will need to focus primarily on the release with your left hand. The Left hand power release drill video is a great one.
November 11, 2018
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Giap
If I try to let the post up triggers my release, sometimes I feel like I don’t get a much speed. What can I do to optimize my speed?
November 12, 2018
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Andrew (Certified RST Instructor)
There are numerous videos on the site that go over ways to increase speed (primarily from ground force). However, I would submit a swing review, that way we can see exactly what your doing.
November 13, 2018
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Luis
First of all, thanks for the great instruction. The RST methodology has helped me a great deal. I recognize that I tend to over rotate my hips and shoulders on the downswing so I try really hard to keep my back facing the target as long as I can as I transfer the weight to the left side. Sometimes I over do keeping my shoulders shut as I come down....and the results are not pretty. Any advice?
November 8, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Luis. It's pretty hard to keep the shoulders that shut in the downswing. But, the key is to let them be pulled into impact. Focus on feeling the lead side pull the shoulders into impact with the Step 2 - Core Rotation Video.
November 8, 2018
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Luis
Thanks Craig, I'll try that
November 9, 2018
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Dan
My biggest swing fault is firing my right hip at the ball, this destroys my spine angle and tush line. If I keep my right heel down until impact I’m fine, but I revert to bad habits too often. What’s the best drill(s) to address this fault?
November 7, 2018
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Andrew (Certified RST Instructor)
Best way to go about it is to start out with 9 to 3 drills in perfect form. Then after you nail it through sufficient repetition, try to step it up to a more full shot. Check out the chair drill and losing the tush line videos for further detail.
November 7, 2018
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Jay
Ive noticed my first move from the top is a left bend "side crunch", which tips my club over the top. This must mean Im not stretching my left oblique correctly, right? At the top, should I feel this stretching, and how do I maintain that stretch so I don't side crunch anymore?
November 4, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jay. You need to keep the rear shoulder back as you pull the weight with the lead side starting from the ground up. Combine the Step 2 - Core Rotation Video with Keep the Rear Shoulder Back.
November 4, 2018
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David
Still trying to get the sequence right. I find that when i shift back to the lead side i seem to drop my right shoulder too much in an effort to get the club into the slot and then find it difficult to pivot and an up early extending.
October 23, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello David. Take a look at the Level Shoulders Drill.
October 23, 2018
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Richard
I have followed the RST 5 Step sequentially but realise the videos weren't actually made specifically for that purpose initially. You often refer to "posting up" and whilst it looks fairly obvious what that actually means I've learnt not to "assume" anything. Where or when does "posting up" actually get explained.
October 1, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Richard. Take a look at You Hit the Golf Ball with Your Legs, Step 2 - Core Rotation and Pro Power Move.
October 1, 2018
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Richard
Yep remember the snapping towel analogy but the word "posting" just came within the natural flow of what Chuck was saying. I realise its more a consequence of proper body movement, weight shift and rotation rather than a specific intentional movement. I suppose that's the whole point of Rotary Swing ! Thank you
October 1, 2018
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Gary
I have been trying to be a golfer for many years and did not understand until Rotary Swing the true golf swing. Numerous lessons but no one explained the core concepts. Now I am mentally challenged and find i am unable to not use a strong right arm on the golf down swing. Q: What specific drills would you recommend I practice to get beyond this hurdle? Many thanks,
August 13, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Gary. You need to start small. 9 to 3 Drill and 5 Minutes to the Perfect Release. Start working all the way to where you can manage a lead arm only perfect 9 to 3. It will start to help you engage the lead side properly and correct the feel of taking over too much with the trail.
August 13, 2018
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Christian
Hi, I am a left handed player and I played right in golf during my teenage year. 5 years ago a switch playing left in golf and from what I understand from this website I was better playing right cause my left hand was in a better position to control. Should I switch back to the right side ?
August 4, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Christian. Which arm/side are you strongest with? Or, lets say if you were to pitch a baseball?
August 4, 2018
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Christian
Left
August 5, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Christian. It is better to have your dominant arm in the lead position like in your teenage years. However, making the switch now could be somewhat cumbersome with the application of power since your right side hasn't been of use for awhile. But, if you feel comfortable from both sides of the ball. It may be something to ponder if you are rebuilding you full swing.
August 5, 2018
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Christian
Ok thanks
August 7, 2018
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Christian
i tried but iam lot better shooting left now, iam slicing the ball, very high and not far, compare to left that i can hit my driver up to 300 yards… i will stay left and train my right arm
August 13, 2018
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Lawrence
Craig On the downswing I feel as if the club head is getting outside the path of my hands. Am I not setting the wrist angle or not rotating the left arm enough on the backswing or something else. I know the club head is closed because I’m getting good contact but pulling shots. Larry Green
July 30, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Larry. You could have lack of lead arm rotation back (How to Keep the Left Arm Straight Video), or rushing the transition. Keep your trail shoulder back longer in the transition (Keep the Rear Shoulder Back Video). But, also understand the path the club comes down when zeroing out your plane (Trace the Plane Line Video).
July 30, 2018
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Stan
It looks like when you post up for power Chuck is moving up..why doesn't that throw off his spine angle and result in a top or whatever...he doesn't discuss how you maintain the same angle if you are moving down in rotating the downswing then a post up move...its illogical you are moving a bit down and up. Thanks trying to do this move but it throws off my spine angle or whatever it's called up and down. thx.
July 26, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Stan. Take a look at You Hit the Golf Ball with Your Legs. Chuck will discuss the spine angle issue.
July 26, 2018
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Lawrence
Craig Watching Sergio Garcia, he has a pre swing action where he takes a mini backswing and down swing while holding his upper right arm with his left wrist, is this action to program a connection or to prevent that right arm from getting away from his torso. Larry Green
July 2, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Larry. I haven't seen the pre-shot move and don't want to speak for Sergio. But, I would imagine it is for feeling connection and not letting the trail arm get too far away (staying in front of the torso).
July 2, 2018
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Tom
How do I maintain the angle in my right arm from top of backswing to my right thigh? I throw away a crap load of lag during this period.
June 23, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Tom. Take a look at How Swing Speed Affects Compression for a drill on the trail arm.
June 24, 2018
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jennifer
Everything in the downswing goes fine until I post up....then I top the ball. If I don't make a conscious effort of posting up on my left leg...then I don't top it....please advise.
June 21, 2018
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Howard (Certified RST Instructor)
Good morning Jennifer. Is your upper body also standing up when you are attempting the post move? If so, it will be more difficult to reach the ground or it may shallow out the plane too much, potentially causing a topped shot. Check to see if you are maintaining the tush line while posting.
June 21, 2018
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sambhu
Hi Should there be a rotation of the left hip after the weight shift? Or does the hip go out of the way because of the shift ? How does one rotate the hip? Any videos?
June 17, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Sambhu. Fixing Your Weight Transfer and Closed Hip Slide should answer your questions. During weight shift there will have to be some hip rotation.
June 18, 2018
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Ken
I tend to hit ball sometimes out towards the toe of club,my stance distance from ball is good plz help.
April 19, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Ken. Typically, the toe is too steep a plane or over rotation of the hands at impact. How to Fix Plane and Path and Flip vs Release.
April 19, 2018
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sambhu
I have cut my handicap down to the teens from the 30+ range thanks to your website. But I am unable to be consistent and have hard time doing what Chucks says in his video above in full swing speed mode. A golf swing lasts 2-3 sec and how does one sit on the left, post up and release in 2-3 sec! help.
March 30, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Sambhu. Love to hear the positive results. Its all about reps and training. Get the pieces proper first. Then, you need to start training the same move with some authority. But, its a process you can't just skip to full rate. Watch Progressive Nature of RST Drills Video. And, understand you start out slowly. But, then have to progressively challenge and increase the better you can repeat properly.
March 30, 2018
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gordon
When making an approach shot (70 - 100m) using a reduced 1/2 or 3/4 swing to keep the ball low against wind, with precision more important than distance, is it advisable to preload the lead side and reduce or eliminate the initial weight shift to the trail side during the takeaway? Thanks and regards, Gordon.
March 12, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Gordon. For some smaller shots you will see a slight pre-load on the lead side as you wouldn't need a big weight transfer.
March 12, 2018
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Tom
Once the club/ hands get into the "hitting position" you note that you do not use your arms or hands but rather the posting up releases the club Is there no releasing the club voluntarily with the left arm/hand
February 25, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Tom. You allow the forearms to rotate to release the club. The club wants to rotate. Your goal is to not inhibit it with tension.
February 25, 2018
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John
I have problem with correct sequencing at speed when playing but do occasionally get it right with amazing result. My question is, how effective is perfect slow motion practice of the whole movement,? Does it ingrain memory as once claimed by Harvey Penick?
February 18, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello John. We recommend perfect slow motion reps. Once, you can do it without much thought. Then, challenge yourself by adding more pace. If you start to breakdown at faster speeds slow up until you can move forward. But, you have to push yourself to perform the motion at a little quicker once you master slow motion.
February 18, 2018
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w
I've been working and reviewing and make changes to my swing to get wide in the takeaway, higher in my hand position at the top, more relaxed wrists and arms, and initiating the downswing with weight shift and hip rotation. I feel like I'm hitting the ball more consistenty at impact with "some" increase in distance. What I'm confused about is what movement in terms of acceleration should I be focusing on through impact. I understand the need to release the club through the wrists and momentum, but I often feel that I'm not generating speed "through the contact zone and the path after contact". Can you explain in detail and refer me to the proper video about how the big muscles should be moving "through" contact (hips, torso, and shoulder) to generate speed and compliment the release from the wrists. FYI: I now drive the ball about 210-220 carry. I am 70 and in excellent physical health. When I was 50-55 I could consistently drive a 3 wood 230-240. I would like to be able hit my driver 230-250. Wishfull thinking?? Thanks....
February 9, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello W Gerrie. If you are applying speed into you follow through you didn't give max amount to the ball at impact. Yes, club head speed will be slightly higher just after impact. Which is why it is very important to deliver as much as possible at the strike. Take a look at the Side Bend Video, You Hit the Golf Ball with Your Legs, Throw the Club Head at the Golf Ball and How Swing Speed Affects Compression for insight/drills to help deliver the speed better.
February 9, 2018
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Asle
Are there any differencenses in the release/uncocking of the wrists at impact and followthru? How does the L and R wrist work ( for a RH'ed player)? Which of them are most important when it comes to creating speed and power or do they work as a unit having the same importance?
January 14, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Asle. Both arms have a role in the swing. The lead will be the control and the trail think of it as the power. However, the vast majority of players overuse the trail and need to feel lead side dominant throughout the swing. The trail won't fully release until just after impact and the lead should be flat to slightly bowed. Take a look at the 5 Mins to the Perfect Release, Left Hand Release and Fix Your Release for more info. Also, the Using the Wrists in the Golf Swing Video.
January 14, 2018
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Yuefeng
I want to clarify how the concept of upper/lower body separation works in downswing. As we do the squat to square transition move, the hips will unwind a bit to square. During this phase, should we make the upper body stay shut as some people say "feeling the back facing the target for as long as possible", or is it ok and more natural to not to restrict the upper body, and let it unwind the same degree as the lower body does. I wonder if the latter could lead to an out to in path.
December 4, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Yuefeng. The upper half will unwind as you start pull the hips open. The goal is not to unwind the upper half too fast manually beating the lower half. If you restrict the upper half from ever moving (too long back to the target) and still start with the lower body. The tendency would actually be to increase secondary tilt and start the downswing under plane. The shoulders should be passive, but not off and never move.
December 5, 2017
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Yuefeng
Thanks Craig. Could you help me understand a bit more on the term "separation" - I thought that means rotating the lower body without moving the upper body initially, as I have seen demonstrations of that motion in a setup position with arms across the chest. I have tried and can do the same, however I find that separate movement is extremely challenging if not impossible to do in a fully loaded up position at the finish of backswing. So getting puzzled on this, as what you described seems to be more like an in-sync motion between the upper and lower body
December 5, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Yuefeng. The separation happens because you will slightly start to shift onto the lead side (start the downswing) as the shoulders continue back to reach the full backswing positioning. The goal from here is to make sure the the lower half is leading the way and upper half is unwinding as of consequence of the lead side pull/torso. Not trying to make sure they rotate at the same rate. The hip movement will be active as the shoulders are passive.
December 5, 2017
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Yuefeng
Very clear. Thank you.
December 5, 2017
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w
I've been looking for a video or a drill to help me keep my head behind the ball, especially on the driver downswing. I've discovered (I think) that when my head and body start move forwarding on the downswing, it feels like I'm dragging the club head through impact, and not able to impart a proper release with hands and wrists and with my head back. Thus my drives are way short of what I think I'm capable of. Please direct me to the proper video that discusses this staying behind the ball or a drill to help implement this into my downswing.
November 20, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Gerrie. We don't have a video that discuss staying directly behind the ball because the head behind at impact is more of a byproduct of proper sequencing. The sequence of Step 2 - Core Rotation and Throw the Club Head at the Ball will cure the slide ahead. Proper lead side to start the downswing (less spinning shoulders) and allowing the club to release (versus too active upper half pushing the club through).
November 20, 2017
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thomas
In reviewing the sample video of driver down the line, vs. my own I notice that the model swing first few inches of the downswing are down. In my swing, I see much more horizontal, about 45 degrees. so, would this me caused because I'm swinging with arms rather than the big muscles as described?
October 20, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Thomas. Yes, that may be indicative of trying to swing with the arms, or even some early shoulder push.
October 20, 2017
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John
I am 76 years of age and I am becoming fascinated with this swing. After doing the drills inside, I went to the range yesterday and after starting with a gap wedge working up to a 5 hybrid I had mixed results. Finally I began hitting the driver taking a fuller swing. I got the feeling that I was coming into the ball from the inside and only when I completed the swing was I hitting the ball straight. This, after 40 years of golf, was new sensation. After my driver I went back to the gap wedge a rather than casting I let it go OUTSIDE and began hitting it straight and high. Am I on the right track? Is this feeling what I am looking for? Thanks, JohnM
August 21, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello John. You could be on the proper track. However, without video it would be tough to tell because feel and real are usually two different things. I would suggest if you really want to master the RST Technique. Upload a swing for review and let myself or one of our instructors custom tailor a program for you.
August 21, 2017
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Michael J
During the "down swing", at the point of impact, the club face is striking the ball on the upper portion (upper quarter, or less) of the face. The reason I believe this is happening is because of the ball imprint left on the face. I have tried teeing the ball further down and placing the ball further forward in my stance, but the results are the same.
August 9, 2017
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
HI Michael J, send in your swings for review so we can take a close look at it and see if we agree with what you are saying.
August 9, 2017
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Corby
Need some guidance. On downswing - working on 'sitting down' and pulling with left oblique. It produces a problem. My upper body is left behind. Specifically my left arm's connection to my chest is 'severed'. It isn't carried back into position. So...when I try to keep it securely connected, my back swing is greatly restricted - I'm scared to elevate cuz of losing the connection again. Help!
August 7, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Corby. You don't want to glue the lead arm to your side. It will have to raise slightly in the back swing and shouldn't be pressed against the chest (How to Keep the Left Arm Straight Video and Understanding Shoulder Elevation). If the upper body is left behind you more than likely aren't allowing it to move (Preventing Hip Pain Video).
August 7, 2017
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Bradley
Most of my shots start left of the target line. I am a 7 handicap. I rarely slice the ball, but even many of my good shots start a little left of the target line with a straight ball flight or a slight draw. What do you think is the cause, and what should I be doing to try to improve? Thanks, Brad
June 22, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Bradley. It would be tough to diagnose without seeing your swing. Even though 85% of initial ball flight is determined by the club face. You could have a multitude of issues causing the face to be slightly closed at impact. I would suggest uploading a swing for review, or start working on the Perfecting Your Golf Impact Series.
June 22, 2017
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Anthony
I wasn't really sure where to post this question so here it goes. Generally, my tendency or bad shots are pull draws or pull hooks if it is really bad. However, when I try to hit a fade or let it fade(my driver is strongly fade biased) I hit a lot of solid shots. Generally they go straight with little fade, but the contact is much better than trying to hit a straight shot or draw. Should I just go with that feeling and try to play a fade all the time or should I be working on something I am not aware of? Thanks for your help.
May 2, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Anthony. There may be an issue with the swing. It would be hard to tell from solely this forum post. I would upload your driver swing for review to see if there is a major cause leading the hook and why the fade feels better. In the meantime, if the fade is providing less errors. No reason to fight it until you know what to fix.
May 3, 2017
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Joe
My problem is the opposite of the more typically arms race swing. I have a tendency to fire my hips too early causing my right elbow to get stuck. My body/shoulders stop while my arms/hands flip through impact. When I was playing in college, this swing worked because I was able to hit enough balls every day to time it up. Now that I am working, I don't have as much time. I am having a lot of trouble changing the sequence and allowing my right elbow to get more in front throughout the downswing and impact. Do you have any drills/thoughts for working on this?
April 23, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Joe. A few videos to take a look at. Belt Buckle Drill, Squat to Square, Level Shoulders, Hip and Hand Speed, and the Trace the Plane Line.
April 23, 2017
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Tom
I have spent this winter with Chris Tyler trying to teach my right side to do nothing in the downswing, how would I get my arms to not fire from the top? I find that I get more lag when I think of holding my arms and shoulders back for as long as possible until I feel my oblique's getting tight.
April 20, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Tom. Until you feel your obliques get tight on the way down? If so, feeling like the arms and hands do nothing (or stay back there) until the weight shift and lead oblique start pulling is perfectly fine when trying to preserve the lag.
April 20, 2017
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Martin L
After shifting weight how do I keep from over rotating my hips on the down swing?
March 28, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Martin. Proper posting up and lack of trail side push. Step 2 - Core Rotation and Role of the Right Foot.
March 29, 2017
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Martin L
Thanks, I'll check it out.
March 29, 2017
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Mary
I have started sliding my weight to the left on my downswing, don't know why I have started doing this, is there a drill to stop me doing this? Thanks!
March 22, 2017
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Mary
Thank you for your kind response I went back into the menu and found the solution al g with the drills but will also try your suggestion. Appreciate your help!
March 23, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Mary. Take a look at Fixing Your Weight Transfer and Preventing Hip Pain.
March 23, 2017
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Mary
Sorry clicked the wrong reply button. Thank you for your kind response I went back into the menu and found the solution along with the drills but will also try your suggestion. Appreciate your help! March 23, 2017
March 23, 2017
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Jordan
At P-6 my club is going out towards the right too much I believe. What does this usually mean? My bad shot is always a pull hook.
March 3, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jordan. There can be a few things that would cause the positioning. It would be tough to diagnose why without a swing review. However, it sounds like you are too steep and squaring the face too quickly into the release. Trace the Plane Line talks about the spinning of the shaft coming down. Sounds like you have over done that move. You need to work on being a little more shallow and gradual release (How to Fix Plane and Path, Flip vs. Release, Vijay Release Drill).
March 3, 2017
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Justin
Hi Chuck, I think you do a great job with y our explanations and demonstrations. One clarifying question , at the beginning of the downswing does the left arm initially move clockwise to flatten the plane. I get that this is a reaction to weight shift & not something one would try to do. Thanks , J
February 19, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Justin. With proper weight shift and lead side usage at the star of the downswing. The lead arm will slightly internally rotate to help shallow the path. If the upper half is passive and the lead side moves properly. It will be more reactionary versus an active thought to make it happen.
February 19, 2017
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Tim
Hi, My golf gloves always get holes in the left thumb. When I watch my swing on video, my lag has no chance because as I finish the back swing and transition, the club head shoots up to the sky in a kind of casting motion and I think pushing with my left thumb is the cause. I just can not seem to stop it; it is only when I completely take my thumb off the club with a crazy type grip do I actually get lag. A pro's club head never shoots up, it seems to stay level for a bit or even drops...can you help because I am giving serious consideration to eating my thumb with some fava beans and a nice chianti.
January 24, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Tim. Take a look at the Left Thumb Video. You have to learn/train to keep it passive. Also, check your grip. Make sure it isn't too flat down the shaft or directly on top. Placement can make a huge difference. If all fails maybe the chianti.
January 25, 2017
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sambhu
A typical golf swing lasts 4 sec. how is one supposed to shift, post and release in this short time? So what is the key thought? Shift on to the left heel?
January 21, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Sambhu. Shift and post. Plant weight lead heel. Push into ground. The release (after the proper motion is trained) will become more automatic due to the post up (You Hit the Golf Ball with Your Legs). You would be surprised how much can be accomplished in such a little time frame. That's why we have to rep a lot of proper motions. To make it less thought and more sub-conscience/reactionary.
January 22, 2017
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sambhu
Thanks! Makes sense...
January 22, 2017
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Anthony
I have a technical question: On the downswing, does the center of mass stay in "Front" of the left posted leg? Or should I "Counter fall" (right knee towards my left big toe/landing on my left outer heel) to offset the pulling forces?
January 13, 2017
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Anthony, your center of mass will be shifting more towards your lead side in the downswing and you should be working to stabilize the body by posting up with the lead leg and allowing the trail foot to be reactive. If your right knee is working towards your left toe, then you are more than likely pushing too much from the trail side. Get your weight shifted to the lead side and then stabilize it by posting up.
January 14, 2017
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T David
On the start of the downswing, Chuck mentions that the arms and hands are quiet. When I do this in practice, I noticed that I tend to loose the angle (wrist hinge) by the pull of gravity on the club. In order to preserve this angle (where the shaft is parallel to the ground), I need to keep the three last fingers on the lead hand engaged. Is this correct? Or am I still missing something?
November 29, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Dave. You need to stay relaxed. But, don't give up complete control. Yes, keep the pressure in the last three fingers of the lead hand.
November 29, 2016
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Greg
Hi Aaron, At the top of the backswing Chuck talks about the first move down as shifting your weight to the left. With your weight into your right heal, does it feel like a straight shift across to the left heal or since there is a slight squat involved does it feel more lateral and back? Also am I correct that there is no conscious effort to unwind the hips? Finally, do you have any thoughts on what I can do to initiate the downswing to stifle the urge to just unwind. When Chuck's at the top of the backswing he says relax and just hang out. I'm fairly tightly coiled, so when I shift laterally the left shoulder wants to open. If the weight shift actually feels like it's pulling my left shoulder slightly back and down like the motion of my left hip I am more apt to stay coiled initially. Is this desirable?
November 20, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Greg. It will feel like a little lateral and back move. The only conscious effort to rotate the hips will be the straightening of the lead leg and feeling the obliques pull the hip. You don't want to try a rip them through. The shoulders should be very passive when pulling back to the lead side. If you have a hard time wanting to open them too soon. Try "Starting the Downswing before Completing the Backswing" Video.
November 29, 2016
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Eduardo
I have a query that worries me. In the downswing, shoulders one should make them rotate actively ? or leave them to the more relaxed possible and passive, that move alone with the rotation of the hip? Because I heard that professionals almost that initiate simultaneously the rotation of the shoulders with the hip on the downswing. And in my house practicing the driver to the air had swings of 106 to 108 mph, but in the driving range it maximum was 103, and not trying to turn fast them shoulders to the start the downswing. I dont know because in my house worked, and in the driving not. Is it a mistake to turn the shoulders voluntarily at the start of the downswing ? Thanks
October 29, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Eduardo. I answered in your other post. However, yes you don't want to voluntarily spin or activate the shoulders in the downswing. Take a look at You Throw the Club Head at the Golf Ball to understand why we don't want shoulder spin.
November 1, 2016
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Eduardo
I have a question about the arm left and right on the downswing (on a right-handed person). The recommendation is to activate the muscles of his right arm to perform a movement type frisbee pointing towards the ball. And with the left arm, the recommendation is to orient the upper face of the hand toward the goal (by rotating the forearm). My question is how much should dominate one arm movement on the other. Or what must begin to dominate and what must finish to dominate. My current concept is that I have to start with the right arm the effect frisbee and half way along the route, the left arm take control and rotate the forearm in order to guide the face of the club toward the goal. I tried to make from the start of the backswing motion with the two arms enabled but I do not think that I had very good results. Thanks !!
October 14, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Eduardo. You should feel more of the trail shoulder/torso/glute in the backswing. In the downswing, you should feel that the lead arm dominates the whole time. As if you were throwing the frisbee lead arm only from the top. You use the lead side to pull the club down and create more lag angle and the release with the lead side. You want the trail side very passive in the downswing. Don't just yank the lead arm though. Let the weight shift and torso pull help especially in the transition. Take a look at the Step 3 and 4 in the 5 Step System.
October 14, 2016
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Eduardo
Thanks Creg, your recommendation about leaving the right arm very passive in the downswing ,i is proving much, and more mph. I remember a video of clay Ballard using the right arm to release a golf ball of plastic and make it hit against the floor pointing to the real golf ball, and I thought that the right arm must do a muscular effort. But I tried to leave it as if it were a rope, most passive as I could, and it was much better. Now my question is, the left arm in the downswing, you must perform a important muscular contraction in forearm and arm to guide the the face of the club and get the effect frisbee, or must also be something soft, not as much as the right arm. I saw the video 4 flip vs release, and said that it was something relax, but to turn the face of the club with the left arm and be able to generate an arc to reach the ball, something of muscular effort needs to be done to sustain the driver for example, Not ? What is the best way of using the arm left in downswing to get more mph and more precision. Many thanks for your help
October 16, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Eduardo. You need to train the lead wrist to square up the club face correctly. Vijay Release Drill/5 Minutes to the Perfect Release. Once you have the movement trained. You want the legs to start being the power source as you allow the lead wrist to work properly (You Hit the Golf Ball With Your Legs Video). Properly trained wrist rotation with good leg movement. You won't be muscling it with forearm rotation, but allowing for snap.
October 17, 2016
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Kent
In conjunction with working with your drills, would you recommend using a swing fan ? Thanks..William
October 14, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Kent. We prefer the Orange Whip. Sometimes with the fan you might have the tendency to muscle it through impact.
October 14, 2016
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Andy
I've gotten to the point where my swing looks great on video but when I go to the range to hit balls I still want to hit the ball instead of swing through it a good amount of the time. I know all too well that keeping your arms and hands passive throughout the swing specifically the downswing is my biggest mental hurdle. Are there any tips or mental tricks I can do to overcome my hit impulse? I can feel the difference between my practice swings at the range and then my swings over the ball. It is very frustrating because I know I can do a lot of things right with my practice swing. I haven't commented on a video in quite sometime and just wanted to say thanks again to Chuck and the whole team at RST, you guys are the best! In less than two months time you've helped me build a near tour pro quality swing, just need to get over my mental hurdle over the ball and stop trying to hit the ball.
October 4, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Andy. Chuck and all of us here appreciate the compliments. Thanks for allowing us to have the opportunity to improve your game. Take a look at the Perfect Practice Makes Perfect Video. The 2 Ball trick may allow you to swing versus attack. Also, you need to focus on there is only one speed burst in the swing and you don't want it at the top. Take a look at Martin Kaymer: Releasing for Distance. Look at when the speed really starts to increase.
October 5, 2016
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Andy
Thanks Craig, I will check out the Perfect Practice Makes Perfect video. I actually watched the Martin Kaymer: Releasing for Distance video yesterday with the comparison to the guy with the bull whip but I'l watch that again. I also practice the whole routine from the 5 minutes to the Perfect Release everyday. Its just very frustrating right now because I know what I have to do but I'm just not doing it consistently over the ball.
October 5, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Andy. Take a look at Flip vs. Release. It should be gradual. You don't have to slay it like you are a dragon. You are using leverage, width and rotation now for power. They all work together to produce a quality shot. Not, brute force. If it was about brute force. Everyone would look like Mr. Olympian on tour. However, most of the long guys are string beans.
October 5, 2016
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T David
The weight shift / downswing has been a great help for me. However, I now seem to have a tendency to to over-cook the left side pull where my swing gets a bit ahead of where it should be ending in either a pull or fade. Any drills or thoughts to help with this?
September 30, 2016
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Hi Dave, sounds like you upper body is trying to spin too hard through the hitting area. The right shoulder in the downswing video can be of help or the perfecting your impact series (videos 2 and 3) in the bonus section, can help with this issue.
October 1, 2016
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T David
Thanks, Chris. I'll check that out. When I played a round today, I noticed it was better if I did two things: stay behind the ball, and keep my right heel on the ground up to impact
October 1, 2016
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
No problem Dave and those are some really good swing thoughts to help stall the body out properly and let the club release with max speed at impact. Good luck and let me know if you need anything at all.
October 2, 2016
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David
Hi Chris, in the downswing do we want the arms to drop straight down or towards the ball? allot of people teach you want to feel like your pulling your hands towards the ball and when you look at pro swings it does kind of look that way? look forward to your response. Thanks.
September 22, 2016
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey David, the arms should be dropping straight down from the top of the back swing. The rotation of the body created by the hips will be moving the hands and arms back out in front of the body. Pulling the hands down to the ball from the top of the swing, can and will promote poor sequencing in the golf swing and make it much harder for you to shift your weight fully before the release. Hope that helps.
September 23, 2016
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David
wow great description thanks!
September 23, 2016
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
My pleasure!
September 24, 2016
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George
When I shift my weight to left heel, my shoulders fly open. When I try to keep shoulders back, I don't shift my weight. Been going through all the weight shift videos, doing 100s of reps trying to get this figured out. Seems to be getting worse. Happens on left arm only swings, 9 to 3, as well as two handed swing. Not sure where to go from here.
September 16, 2016
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Are you using the swing reviews by chance? Also, have you seen the fixing weight transfer video located in the blog? Let me know and we will help you out as much as possible.
September 19, 2016
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George
Yes, have been submitting swing reviews for 2.5 years. I was directed toward the fixing weight transfer video after making a similar comment on another video. I think it's just a sequencing issue that I have a real tough time with. Possibly because I used to hit slices and I trained myself to swing like I was trying to hit a baseball toward 3rd base, if that makes any sense. Now that I can release properly, this swing to the left causes massive pulls. I've gone through some things, and for me, I think the downcock drill helps me start moving my lower body without opening my shoulders and then I feel like I pull my lead arm toward the target. It looks right in the mirror and with impact bag. Haven't made it to the range to try it out on swings at full speed yet or on video, but plan on it soon. Does this sound like it could be correct?
September 19, 2016
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Yes, this sounds to be correct. Try keeping your back to the target and being more patient with your arms in the downswing and sequencing becomes much easier and will get you to where you want to go. It's key to take your time at first and own the movements and then ramp your speed up the more you become proficient with the movements. Good luck and let me know if you need any further help and at all and I will gladly assist.
September 19, 2016
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George
Keeping my back facing the target hasn't worked for me. I really struggle with my arms being too far behind my body and losing lag early, and feeling my back stays at the target really inhibits my weight shift and exacerbates the issue. I understand the concepts and trust me, I have been taking my time and trying to stay patient for two years +. Like I said, focusing on the downcock seems to put me in the correct sequence without overthinking it and having too many thoughts during the swing
September 19, 2016
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Okay sounds like you have a resolution. The rotation created from the hips should help move the hands and arms back out in front of the body unless you are in a deep backswing position to begin with. If the downcock drill is helping you get the club on the correct path and with lag, then I say stick with that.
September 19, 2016
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Brian
Hi, This is my first comment so here goes. As I am 70 years old and not as flexible as I once was, I find that lifting my left heel slightly on the back swing and then replanting it on the downswing helps me get my weight shifting through better and tends to give me more consistency of strike. Is this ok to do on a sort of permanent basis?
September 2, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello BJ. Sometimes flexibility may cause an issue. If you watch for over rotating in the backswing and losing your axis tilt. Then, allow for a little lift because proper weight shift is one of the crux moves in the downswing.
September 2, 2016
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Tom
Hi Craig, I received a notice that you responded to my comment but there is nothing posted. Thanks! Tom
August 25, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Tom. It is posted below.
August 25, 2016
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Tom
Hi Craig, When I practice the various swing positions in isolation I do ok but I can't seem to get my body to follow thee correct rotation. I went to the range yesterday and really tried to use my legs to hit the ball. I either pushed/sliced the ball or hit a very short straight shot. I need something to click in my brain before. more frustration sets in. Thanks again for your input!
August 24, 2016
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Tom
Hi Craig, I watched the Step 4 video again and then went to my garage and videoed my swing with left arm only then with both arms. The one arm swing compares fairly well with the video. My swing is more fluid, my weight shift is more effortless/efficient, my club makes impact where it should (logo on my shirt), there seems to be more lag. When I put both hands on the club my impact with the ground move back 3 - 4 inches (weight shift), my core does not move as effortlessly as with one arm on the club, I can feel my shoulders start to tighten up and remind myself to relax, my follow through seems to be more restricted. I feel as if the weight shift and the "posting up" happen at the same time. I hope this id=s enough and the proper info. you need to help me. Thanks again!
August 25, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Tom. Two questions. 1) Is your lead arm only practice swing proper (Step 4 - 5 Step System)? 2) What changes when hitting a ball lead arm only from the practice swing?
August 25, 2016
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Tom
Hi Craig, I watched the Step 4 video again and then went to my garage and videoed my swing with left arm only then with both arms. The one arm swing compares fairly well with the video. My swing is more fluid, my weight shift is more effortless/efficient, my club makes impact where it should (logo on my shirt), there seems to be more lag. When I put both hands on the club my impact with the ground move back 3 - 4 inches (weight shift), my core does not move as effortlessly as with one arm on the club, I can feel my shoulders start to tighten up and remind myself to relax, my follow through seems to be more restricted. I feel as if the weight shift and the "posting up" happen at the same time. I hope this id=s enough and the proper info. you need to help me. Thanks again! (I copies my response and sent it again! Sorry if I messed up the first time!)
August 25, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Tom. Was the lead arm only swing with a ball or practice?
August 25, 2016
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Tom
Practice! I just hit a few with a ball.
August 25, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Ahh. So, idea. Next review. Give me a perfect lead arm only practice swing and then one with ball. You need to have the lead arm only with a ball (Step 4) pretty spot on before adding trail side.
August 25, 2016
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Tom
Can the(first move) weight shift to the left side begin with the hip bump or pulling the left hip and then post without thrusting the hips forward?? Thanks
August 5, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Tom. Yes, you pull the weight into the lead side and then post up. Take a look at You Hit the Golf Ball with Your Legs Video.
August 5, 2016
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Berly
Craig, The feedback you provided to me on Friday, July 29th said: -- "I want to see more width at the top..." What do you mean? -- "..get your arms working in conjunction with your body..." How do I do this? -- "...use your torso to pull arms and hands in front of the trail thigh club parallel to ground..." what does this mean????? Berly.golfer@cox.net
July 31, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Berly. When we spoke a few reviews ago about maintaining the tilt and better trail arm position that's what I meant about the width. Your trail arm likes to float behind you at the top sometimes which cause you to get a little deep and narrow at the top. Keeping the trail arm more in front of the body and not allowing for flexion beyond 90 degrees will keep your swing arc wider for more power and less work to bring the club down into the proper position (3 Functions of the Right Arm Video). On the way down because the arms get a little disconnected at the top you tend to only swing the arms instead of using a better blend of gravity and core to help bring the arms down (Step 3 RST 5 Step System). In the video above, 4 Steps Lag Builder, and Step 3 - 4 RST 5 Step System you will hear Chuck talk about how the arms and hands do relatively little into the proper trail thigh position. Using weight shift and pull from the torso with quiet arms and hands. The plane will shallow and you should retain better angle. This is the sync I am referring too. Instead of manually trying to just swing the arms into the proper spot.
August 1, 2016
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Berly
Thank you.
August 1, 2016
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Anthony
In the downswing I know it is mentioned that we shift back to the left with our left oblique. I tend to feel a stretch at the top of the swing in my left lat though. This tension makes me naturally want to use it to pull back to the left. In fact, I find that when I use the left lat to move back to the left that my arms drop, my hips don't slide too far, and everything seems to fire naturally. Is this stretch of the lat what I should be feeling at the top of the proper backswing? If so, is it ok to use that to start the downswing or will this lead to issues?
July 26, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Anthony. The lead oblique helps pull the torso and hip. The pull of the weight will begin with internal femur rotation or lead hip adduction. You may feel some lead lat stretch at the top. However, shy away from yanking it down. The lead lats job is to help pull the arms back in front (LADD Video). I would prefer weight shift triggers the downswing versus trying to start down by pulling the lead arm.
July 27, 2016
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charles
Having trouble leaving a good divot. Fat or thin mostly?
July 24, 2016
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Could be attributed to a number of things. Flipping the hands, not fully shifting to the lead side, too much secondary axis tilt etc. We would need to see your swing in order to point you in the right direction.
July 25, 2016
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Greg
When I get to the top of my swing in a good backswing position, I seem to still have tightness in my upper body which causes me to have trouble starting with the weight shift. What are possible reasons for this tightness?
July 11, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Greg. You might be pulling too hard. Tightness in the trail shoulder, arms, etc?
July 12, 2016
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George
In this video and others, Chuck always says that the weight shift and pulling with the left side bring the club into the hitting area and the arms and hands do nothing. But how am I supposed to get the club/my hands back in front of my chest? My issue is that my body races ahead of my arms and the more I try to use my obliques to pull in the downswing, the worse it gets.
July 10, 2016
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anthony
Throw the ball drill. watch that 20 minute video 3 times a week and pretend your teaching someone else it while you watch it, and it practice. After a while it will seem strange how you "used to" get your arms stuck.
July 13, 2016
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Steven (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello George- The external rotation of the left leg and pulling back motion of the obliques is what will pull the arms back down to the hitting area and also move the arms back in front of the torso. If the body races ahead of your arms, you must be using too much right side dominance and swinging from the rectangle or in other words you could be spinning your torso. Sounds like you may be getting stuck a little bit. Try to keep your back to the target longer as you sit into your lead leg. Take a look at "Getting Stuck on the Downswing"
July 10, 2016
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George
Ok. Is it still right side push if it's happening on left arm only swings?
July 10, 2016
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Steven (Certified RST Instructor)
George-there could just be a lot of tension in the lead forearm and wrists. Shake out that tension. Relax the grip. A good way to check the release from hip-to-hip. When the left hand is in front of the right thy glove logo away, at impact-logo down target line and in follow through-logo facing behind you with a flat left wrist
July 10, 2016
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George
Don't think it's a tension issue. How about this: when I shift my weight, I don't pull with my obliques, and when I pull with my obliques, I don't shift my weight. Maybe drill on shifting weight, then pull with obliques so that there are two clear, separate moves, rather than try to do it all at once? Or in my case, only do one and not the other?
July 10, 2016
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Bryant
My question for the longest time is should your right leg straighten with the left leg going into impact and after, or should the right leg maintain the same angle throughout the golf swing?
July 6, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Bmbldwn87365. The trail leg will retain mostly the same amount of flexion until the finish position. In extreme circumstances, where you are trying to maximize all the leverage from the ground possible it would straighten a little. But, normal or stock golf swing the flexion will be retained throughout the vast majority of the swing.
July 7, 2016
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Michael
As a recent member I am just taking steps to adjust my swing. Already I am much better balanced and have found 5-10 yards due to speed. My missed shots are 1- pull hook (I assume coming over the ball getting hand closed?) 2- occasionally irons just a touch thin . I have not been able to spend much time on the drills , however am very happy with what I have already learnt and improved. please feedback what likely causes 1 & 2 ?? often I aim a touch left and try and hit a low fade -this sometimes is a pull draw into trouble :(
June 29, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Michael. Have you uploaded a swing for review? It would be tough to say the exact reason you are getting those results. However, #1 is more than likely an over the top move with a shut club face. Take a look at the Over the Top Stick Drill. #2 Not hitting down on the ball correctly and staying in the shot (Taking a Divot Video and Fix Your Release).
June 29, 2016
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Michael
Hi Craig, I have been working on weight transfer and rotation drills , but still hitting balls and playing golf. Pleased with steadily improving balance , ball striking and speed. I have a tournament on sat and am now hitting solid draw and can not seem to fade the ball, I assume my attack on the ball has changed getting into better position.Is there something I can try to hit a fade on command ? weaken grip or different swing move? I'm really pleased with rotary and will get back to my next swing review after the tournament ? how do I hit a fade ?
July 13, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Michael. Visit the 9 Days to Amazing Ball Striking in the Video Menu. You will learn more about the fade and draw. Better control in the lead hand is how you will control flight. Happy to hear you are pleased with Rotary and the new positions you are settling into. Good luck in the tournament.
July 13, 2016
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dennis
What causes you to hit the ball on the toe.
June 21, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Dennis. You could be trying to over rotate the face or coming across the ball. Take a look at Curing Elbow Pain to have a more constant release and the Over the Top Stick Drill to shallow the path.
June 21, 2016
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John
at 1:30 in this video he demonstrates the hips move to the left first. When I do this I feel like my left glute is pulling backwards in order to make the left heel hit into the ground. Is this a correct motion? It looks correct but I am not sure that it is? Thank you.
June 18, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello John. You will sit into the lead heel/glute and the hip will pull behind you.
June 19, 2016
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John
when shifting to the left I am having all kinds of problems. I have too strong of a grip on the club with the right hand instead of it just going along for the ride. That causes me to be too loaded to the right side and difficult to start a shift to the left. Can I pull my hips to the left to shift my weight to the left as long as I don't spin to the left? I know that we are supposed to be using the inside left leg thigh muscles. Also when I shift to the left I feel the weight on the ball of my left foot instead of the left heel. In essence are we simply to be using our lower body to be shifting our weight to the left? I can't believe how well I am playing and the confidence comes right along with it. I have a long ingrained upper body movement in the swing and that is what I constantly work on and getting better every day.
June 18, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello John. Rotation of the hips won't force you to shift the weight. However, when you rotate the lead knee, pull the weight and have a little lead oblique pull the hips will open a little. Yes, the lower body will be shifting the weight (Try the Stomp Drill in the RST Tempo Drill to help feel the heel).
June 19, 2016
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John
Craig, I went to the RST tempo drill and it helped me both in tempo but the feeling of getting all my weight to the left side. Great suggestion. I need to tell Chuck that you deserve a raise. LOL
June 19, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello John. Great. I will certainly welcome the suggestion to Chuck about the raise! Happy to hear things are back on track.
June 20, 2016
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Richard
Help!! my club path is over backswing path on way down. Hard push with right foot... flipping with my hands..fat, thin, toed shots. My shoudlers turn about 60-70 degrees going back with good path of club, but when shoulders stop I lift my hands and club floats into a steeper position. luckily I hit enough good shots to shoot around par but would really like to be more consistant again. Went to a coach who trys to get you to swing like Hogan and maintain leverage beyond the ball by swinging left with hips and shoulders. Will try and get a video loaded soon. thank you.
June 10, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Richard. A swing review will be the best tool to get you corrected. In the meantime, shallow out the path with weight shift and the trail shoulder off. Take a look at the Over the Top Stick Drill. Also, the 3 Functions of the Right Arm to help with the float to the top.
June 11, 2016
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Richard
Thank you Craig I will do as suggested. Look forward to input on swing review.
June 11, 2016
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Vivek
Hello, I am having a little trouble figuring out when the glutes engage. Do I engage the right glute only on the way back and the left glute only on the way down-and-through? Or can I engage both on the way back and left glute only on the way down-and-through? Or should i twerk it throughout my swing? I can hit the ball with all three methods but which is the right one? Or maybe none of these ? Please let me know, Thanks and Regards, -Vivek
June 1, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Vivek. The trail glute will be primarily engaged in the backswing with the lead glute doing relatively little. When you shift and squat both will be working with more emphasis on the lead because of the weight placement. Take a look at Perfecting Lower Body Stability.
June 2, 2016
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Maury
I have a question related to club head speed. In the down swing is it correct to imagine that after the weight shift to the left hand side and the hips have squared, that they momentarily stop ( I know they really don't) to let energy transfer to the arms so they can whip around to a full finish? I find if I try to rotate my hips aggressively the club head never catches up, which leads to poor release. Maury ________________________________________
May 31, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Maury. Aggressive hip rotation will not allow the club to catch up. I like that you feel and understand that big no-no. However, you will feel more of the deceleration of all the body points more while posting up. Take a look at the Throw the Club Head at the Ball Video.
June 1, 2016
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Tomas
I have a huge problem with to steep attack angle, around +6 in combination with swing path as around +6. Do you have drills to work with to get ride of problems like this? Thanks in advance Tomas
May 25, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Tomas. The Trace the Plane Line Video will help with the too in to out path. The angle of attack needs to have a better or more constant release (Vijay Release and Fix Your Release).
May 26, 2016
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Tomas
Thanks Craig! I look at the Trace the Plane Line video ang understand that i have to do the reverse move that the video explains, under the stand in the video. Thanks again. Tomas
May 27, 2016
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Jeff
I have a question about the "pulling of the left oblique" after the shift is complete. Is this "pulling" a conscious effort of the oblique or is it taken care of (does it happen automatically) when you push your left heel into the ground causing you left leg to straighten in order to gain leverage against the ground?
May 25, 2016
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
You should try and feel the obliques working to create the hip/torso rotation. The pushing the lead heel into the ground does help create some of the rotation and does allow you to take advantage of ground force. Check to see how much hip rotation you are getting just by driving the foot into the ground and then determine if you need to find the obliques to help clear the hips further. They might be working already, you just might not have the full awareness of them working.
May 25, 2016
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Jeff
Thanks, I'll let you know.
May 25, 2016
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Sounds good Jeff!
May 25, 2016
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Jeff
I am clearing my hips just fine by driving my heel/foot to start the rotation. I believe that i may be over rotating them looking a my finish position. I drilled the sequence (300 and counting) in chunks like Chuck instructed in the video. I did find that by having the obliques start the rotation it slowed me down so I wasn't spinning my hips. Also, the down cocking helped by eliminating any right side movement when starting the transition.
May 26, 2016
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Very good to hear this.
May 28, 2016
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Carver
Elsewhere the notion of beginning the shift to the left before finishing the back swing is mentioned. Approximately when do you suggest that happen and will it be different from a short iron to the driver? I also noticed Matuyama actually pauses briefly at the top before shifting and starting the downswing. Seems to make sense, no?
May 23, 2016
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Carver
Thanks Craig. I guess I have to experiment a little. I have measured my swing speed with a 6 iron and when I do shift before completing my bs my swing speed increases by 10 mph. Not insignificant by any means.
May 24, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Carver. You can start or have a brief pause. Player dependent. Golfers that over swing will want to start down a little earlier to help the transition (Start Downswing Before Completing Backswing Video).
May 24, 2016
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Edward
Reading through the comments on this video makes me realise this is a key part of the swing. I have two questions just to clear things up for me. If I understand it 1) we shift to the left whilst squatting to a square position with our hips? 2) As we do this we are passive with our arms and shoulders. So our arms drop down in front. So my second question is - have the shoulders also passively opened, but not as much as the hips? Or do we actively try and hold our shoulders back as we squat, in order to increase torque? Thanks.
May 22, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Edward. You will shift to the lead side and while pulling the weight over you will reach the squat/square position. The shoulders will be passive and you are allowing a blend of (gravity, momentum and pull) to get the arms back in front - RST 5 Step System Step 3. Some players need to feel their back to the target to not spin them open too quickly coming down. However, you don't want to just leave them back. Allow them to open passively with the lead side pull.
May 22, 2016
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Kevin
Thanks for this entire series, guys! As a mathematician myself, I love the scientific approach to everything. And it has transformed my swing immensely. So today I started working on the downswing drills...began with the 9 to 3 and 9 to 3 lag drills...anytime my swing started going awry I went back to this. When I hit it pure, it was the most beautiful shot I'd ever hot, nice high trajectory (I always had low to medium trajectory before), and straight, or sometimes a little draw, or even fade sometimes. Two faults I saw happen the most were hitting it thin, and toeing the ball. Can you possibly tell me what I can work on to help these faults.
May 11, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Kevin. Thanks for the compliments of our material. More than likely the upper half (shoulders) were spinning a little bit with early loss of lag. Get that impact position and hit down. Take a look at the Taking a Divot Video.
May 12, 2016
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Jeffrey
I have a couple of technical questions which seems to be holding me back on progressing. I joined your website a few weeks back and I'm extremely impressed on how someone is finally explaining the mechanics and biomechanics of the golf swing. I'm a chiropractor in San Francisco and used to teach biomechanics at school. You don't mention scapular-thoracic movement at all in your videos and I've viewed most of them at this point. I'm unclear on two parts of the swing; On the top of the back swing does the scapular move upwards on the ribcage of does it stay down and just the glen-humeral joint flexes? At the very beginning of the downswing does the gleno-humeral joint drop down immediately or gradually and do you tuck your right elbow into your abdomen? I couldn't find any videos that address these questions. Thanks for your help--your doing a great job! Jeff
May 6, 2016
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Chuck
Hi Jeff, the motion of the scapula is discussed in the takeaway video, essentially in and slightly down, NEVER up. This should help answer your question about the shoulder socket as it shouldn't be elevated during the backswing. You needn't try and tuck the arm in, let it fall as you shift your weight
May 9, 2016
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Keith
Here Chuck says the most important move from the top is shifting weight to the left heel. He says a lot of things fall into place when performed correctly. In the 5 minute instruction video, the first move taught from the top is the "squat" that shifts the weight back to a more centered position. So, first question is in practice do I want to think about weight shift or squatting to transition from the top? What I "feel" which I haven't yet confirmed from video recording, is that this squat move actually seems to sequence the downswing automatically as Chuck describes about the weight shift. It feels very powerful, and I end up in a balanced position at finish. Does this sound accurate, or am I oversimplifying?
April 28, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Keith. The squat and the weight shift are talking about the same points only two different ways. The goal is the same though to transfer the weight to the lead side with the glutes engaged. You should probably think about it as shifting into a squat. You aren't over simplifying at all. The golf swing is easier than it is made out to be. If you shift into a squat position with passive shoulders. A lot of downswing will take care of itself.
April 28, 2016
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Keith
Thanks Craig, that is helpful. Since this is a new sensation for me starting down, should I be concerned about over doing the squat? It feels like a source of control in how much power is generated...in other words the rest of the downswing feels to happen in correct order, just faster as the squat gets more aggressive. I have committed to completely rebuilding my swing so I am not getting any feedback from hitting balls with a full swing. I don't want to make a wrong assumption and create a bad habit or compensation as a result.
April 28, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Keith. You can overdo the squat. Depending on how much squat you produce you can definitely feel different power variabilities. As long as you aren't overly changing your levels or forget to shift the weight, I think you will be okay. The key will be once you start moving and training into impact that you haven't dropped so much that you are unable to clear the lead hip when posting up.
April 28, 2016
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Lewis
I am getting the hang of pulling with my left side however i have an issue i need help with. When i pull with my left side - shoulder/lats back away from the target line - the club feels like it really rounds out and may be too shallow. With a teed up driver that wirks. But with itons off the turf it seems too shallow and i hit the ball a few grooves low or off the leading edge - thin. Is there some downward movement to the pulling motion as well as a backward movement to get the club to have a more descending blow from the slot as opposed to a more rounded arc? Hope that makes sense. Thanks!
April 27, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Lewis. It seems as though your axis tilt is changing and the lead shoulder isn't staying with the shot. Take a look at the Level Shoulders Drill and Winter Downswing Video.
April 28, 2016
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Richard
How important is it to keep the left arm straight at the top? My natural tendency is to bend the left arm at the top.
April 27, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Richard. You can have a soft lead arm at the top. I wouldn't want you to lock it by any means. However, that doesn't give you authority to bend it as much as you would like . The lead arm bends because of two primary reasons. 1) The trail arm bends more than 90 degrees at the top. 2) You don't allow for gradual wrist set.
April 28, 2016
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Richard
Thanks Craig. I spent some time at the range yesterday. I still have a lot of work to do. I can get get lag in the swing as long as I don't turn back too far. If I turn back to get a full swing I often hit the ground behind the ball. I have been doing plenty of the lag drills. The last video I made I was shifting weight too much and my hips were too far left at impact (left hip outside my left foot and head back with a large shoulder tilt back). I guess I have to keep my back to the target through the swing.
April 28, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Richard. Take a look at the RST 5 Step Series. Work on your weight shift and core rotation. It will help with the back to the target without spin as well as the pushing beyond NJA at impact.
April 28, 2016
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Michael
I have found that when I do the practice drills for the down swing really slow I have success. However as soon as I try to add any speed into the equation I stall and don't transfer the weight properly It appears that when I introduce speed in the swing it falls apart. The most recent review showed that I hang back, however that's not news to me. I have tried to slowly ramp the speed up but when it nears a true swing the problem arises.. Any thoughts you might have about this specific speed issue would be appreciated.
April 16, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Michael. I wish there was a nifty trick to help you out with this predicament. I like how you are going about your practice nonetheless. Changing motor patterns are very tough. My suggestion would be to try and focus solely on the weight issue. Nothing else. Try the RST Tempo Drill to see if a step can help trick you a little into the proper position.
April 17, 2016
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David
What is the name of the video Chuck did on YouTube where he put the impact bag just inside the target line to help increase lag
April 14, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello David. Could you provide a little more specifics? Was it a recent video?
April 14, 2016
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Matthew
I have a flaw in my downswing. It sort of looks like Laura Davies except she stays behind the ball better. As I'm coming down on a full swing (5 iron and up) pulling with my left and soft right hand I pull my arms in and my shoulders and head go straight up. I usually get up on the front of my feet but not always. I have worked on the tush drill with the chair and even though I feel it until my chest is facing the target I still rise up. Even when I swing with relaxed arms and wrists when I try to put some speed on the swing I pull the arms in and my head and shoulders go straight up. I have done the majority of your drills - long arm, 9-3, 5 steps to the perfect release, and more thousands of times. Let me know if you have any idea how to stop from pulling in my arms. Would reaching for the ball 6 inches further away in a drill help. Thanks.
April 11, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Matthew. It would be hard to diagnose without seeing your swing the exact cause to your problem. Have you worked on releasing the tension and posting up properly? Play the Best Golf of Your Life 2 of 6, Perfect Impact Part 2 and 3. If not, start with those and report back.
April 11, 2016
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Sharan
I feel so disconnected between top of the backswing and start of the downswing. During my backswing everything was done from right side, and now i have to switch to the other side. I need a chain that connects these two things together.
April 7, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Sharan. You feel disconnected with the arms? Or, the fact that you now have to transition to your lead side? Try working on the Start the Downswing Before Completing Backswing and master the shift with the Fixing Your Weight Transfer.
April 7, 2016
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Kevin
Hi. I went out and practiced today for the first time after beginning RST. There were two flaws that I was struggling with, especially at first...I was hitting a lot of balls, especially with wedges, fat. And 2nd, when I didn't hit them fat, they would tend to pull to the left...not hook, just pull. However, the balls that I hit pure and straight were beautiful...they had a higher trajectory than I had ever had before, and either went straight, or had a little draw to them.
April 6, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Kevin. Without seeing your swing it would be tough to determine the exact flaws or differences in the good and bad strike. I would suggest watching the Taking a Divot Video to understand where fat shots come from and proper face alignment at impact.
April 7, 2016
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Rich
When I go bad it's a pull/hook. How do I correct this problem?
March 29, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Rich. It is determining why you are hooking. More than likely steep with a very shut face. Take a look at the Over the Top Stick Drill and the Long Arms Drill. Shallower path and extension without trail side push.
March 29, 2016
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Preston
I have a problem with my right forearm being parallel to the ground ( perpendicular to my body) when the club is parallel with the ground ( pointing down the target line on the downswing) whereas when I have noticed with my friends swings and those players on tour...their right arm has straightened out much sooner than mine..(towards the ground) and their hand are also much closer to the ground than mine ever have. Any suggestions?
March 16, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Preston. From your description if I am gathering correctly. When you sequence down you need weight, torso, and the arms (gravity-little pull). Try to get a better initial sequence with the Weight Shift Drill Part 1.
March 16, 2016
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Fred
I was practicing with my Swingbyte analyzer hitting a 7 iron. It showed that I was adding 7-11 degrees of lie angle at impact. This seems excessive to me (early extension...). Should the hands be at the same height at impact as at address? If this needs fixing, can you recommend some drills.
March 15, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Fred. That might be a little much. The hands will be slightly higher at impact versus address because of shaft droop and proper release. To me it could be early extension (Chair Drill). Or, you need to maintain better wrist angle into the release and not throw it early. Fix Your Release Video.
March 16, 2016
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Andrew
Is there a video that describes how and when to use the obliques in the downswing? At what point do we get the arms involved to release the club and stop letting the lower body carry the club down?
March 15, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Andrew. The Weight Shift Video Part 1, Perfect Impact Part 3, Perfecting Lower Body Stability, and How to Use the Lower Body. You will use weight shift, torso (oblique) and the arms (pull-gravity) to help get the arms/hands in front of the trail thigh with good lag. Then, you will start to release with the lead arm/hand.
March 15, 2016
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David
Hi Craig, I have great difficulty with the sequencing of the downswing. On a practice swing I can feel everything correctly but with the ball I cannot make a good weight shift prior to the rest of the downswing. I guess it is probably a 'hit' instinct which takes over but on the ball it feel's all wrong with a lot of pulled shot's probably due to shoulder spin. Is there a way I can work on correct sequencing to make it work on an actual shot rather than a practice swing - I need to get onto the left post before the rest of the chain?
March 12, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello David. I have practiced it in 2 pieces before. I understand having to remove the hit instinct out of the swing. Take a look a the Weight Shift Video Part 1 in the Weight Transfer Section. Get a ball in front of you (shift and pull), then hit small little released shots till you can blend the motion. Similar to the Drill Release for Speed - RST Student Success.
March 12, 2016
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David
Thank's Craig, Just to let you know I found a bit of a technical problem with the first video (jerky and out of synch) and could not find the second - found RST Student Success vid's but not Drill Release for Speed, maybe finger trouble?? I will start to try and feel the sequence with the small shot's for a start as you suggest and also use the drill's Chuck explains in the Weight Shift Video Part 3.
March 12, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello David. I will check on the first video. Thanks for pointing it out. Try back in an hour or so. Hopefully, all will be corrected. The second video I was meaning to say the drill "Release for Speed - RST Student Success". The Weight Shift 1 will compliment part 3 well and sorry for the miscommunication on the "Release for Speed" Video.
March 12, 2016
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Jason
One thing I have not been addressed on over the top type swings: casting and or an upper body dive. I am horribly afflicted with the latter. I find even with shifting, stomping, leg abduction, squatting, anything; the upper body dive follows. Even with loose grip, excessive down cock wrist drills, or even letting the arms fall "manually", I may get under plane, but still do an upper body dive to finish the swing. What about this drill: to rotate the hips to square first (keep that X factor) while keeping my back and shoulders relatively closed.--> feel that tension, from here: squat (from that square hip position), and finish the swing immediately after the squat. the upper body dive allows me to par some par 3s, get a few pars on par 4s, but double par at least 12 of the holes. it sucks and I don't know what else to do to break that habit.
February 24, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jason. Feeling separation between the upper half and lower half coming down is not a problem. It seems you are still starting from the ground up and turing off the upper to allow the shoulders to follow versus being too active. Try working on the Sledgehammer Drill to turn off trail shoulder dive/push and also the Rotating Body versus Release to understand you have to re-wire brain where power is coming from.
February 24, 2016
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Mark
I'm guilty of pushing off my right foot in order to transition the weight from my right heel onto my left heel. The main issue with my swing is that my shoulder tilt (hunch back) is off the charts at impact (55+ degrees). How do I get the feeling of getting the weight onto my left heel without pushing off my right foot? My goal is to to keep my shoulders more level at impact and throughout the downswing.
February 23, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Mark. Take a look at the Level Shoulders Drill. Also, the Winter Downswing Drill to focus on a better shift (without push) and letting the lead arm swing from the shoulder joint to keep the shoulders more level.
February 23, 2016
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Preston
I have a serious problem with hitting it off the toe, especially when under pressure. If I hit it off the toe, it has a chance at going somewhat straight or with a little draw or possible a push if I don't flip it over. Also, when I don't hit it off the toe, and hit it in the center, it is solid, but tends to hook quite a bit unless my timing is extremely good that day, but like I said, its mainly toe shots that I really can't control. And obviously when it is hit off the toe, there is a major loss of distance. Any thoughts?
February 8, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Preston. Without seeing your swing it would be hard to properly diagnose. I would suggest a swing review with the issue in a video. However, if you are unable to send a video or duplicate the problem. Some of the main toe issues are from being to steep, or loss of posture/tush line. Use the Over The Top Stick Drill if you are overly steep. Take a look at Losing the Tush Line and Perfecting Impact Bonus Video for help on tush line. If time permits, Level Shoulders Drill to stay in the shot longer.
February 8, 2016
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Gary
Question - I remember someone here saying that the shoulders feel as if they stay back while the lower body shifts forward and turns. As the lower body shifts and rotates forward the arms should feel as if they drop by gravity. Is this the correct sequence and feel?
February 6, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Gary. Yes. You will feel the shoulders staying passive or relatively shut to the target. As you shift allow for gravity and a little pull of the lead arm. Take a look at Re-Shaping Your Swing for Lag.
February 7, 2016
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Gary
Thanks thought so however very difficult to do at full speed. Any suggestions on drills to execute this move ramping up the speed?
February 7, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Gary. You want to ramp up speed, but use lag and release for power (not solely body rotation "Rotating Body vs Releasing Video"). Winter Downswing Video and Over the Top Stick Drill (to turn off massive shoulder push).
February 7, 2016
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Gary
Ok great can these drills be ramped up in speed? Drills where the speed can be ramped up in speed would be appreciated Thanks
February 7, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Gary. Yes, you will work on ramping up speed and distance. Also, Lag and Speed Drills for more of a power focus.
February 7, 2016
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Charles
Question: At the top of the back swing, the hips are rotated away from the target. Then the shift of the hips is initiated. Is the "initial" shift of the hips a pure lateral shift, i.e. in line with what is at the top of the back swing, or it involves some rotation to align the hips toward the target?
January 28, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Charles. You are referring to a closed hip slide. Take a look at the Perfecting Impact Bonus Series Video.
January 29, 2016
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David
Let's celebrate Rickies win with a video on how he bombs his driver. Phil made a mistake by leaving Butch Look at how Rickie came around. He is my favorite player in the game.
January 24, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello David. I will inform Chris that some of our members would like to see Fowler.
January 25, 2016
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Djamil
Hi, I am not sure to make good things in my downswing, and i am not sure to understand the sequence. I know that the DS start with weight shift (sitting in the left side...) After what does arms and shoulders do? I have understand recently that my arms are not in front of me, i feel they are behind my chest when i go into impact and i know it's not good. But what i don't really understand it's if my arms should fall into impact without shoulders rotation or with the help of the shoulders. When i try to keep my shoulders closed during my weight shift i have the tendancy to have my arms staying too much bach and then they are not infront of me at this point. It's like my body go to the left but my arms stays in the right.
January 22, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Djamil. Use the Re-Shaping Your Swing for Lag and the Winter Downswing Video. When you shift your weight you need to allow for gravity and lead arm pull to help get the arms back in front of you. You don't need to force the shoulders to try and get the arms in front. The pull form the lead lat gets the lead arm back in front of the chest. From your notes you need to allow the shoulders to be passive, but don't restrict them from turning at all.
January 22, 2016
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Anthony
Question 1: Does the shoulder turn deflect the weight/momentum from the right side to the left side? The video makes it look like conscious effort is applied. Question 2: Is weight transfer complete when the weight is over the left instep (for a right handed golfer)? Or is it complete when the weight is over the center of the left heel? Thank you
December 28, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Anthony. The shoulder turn shouldn't deflect the weight shift change from trail to lead side. You don't want them spinning early inhibiting proper transfer. Starting the swing from the ground up without unwinding early should be the goal. The weight transfer will be completed when you are centered over the lead ankle joint.
December 29, 2015
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Evan
I try to hit the inside of the ball this seems to work with the shift to the left , too. Evan
December 13, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Evan. Thanks for the post. Yes, that should still work with the shift to the left.
December 14, 2015
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David
My swing seems to be coming together as far as my shots off the Tee, but it's my secondary shots from the fairway and close in (inside 80 yards) that are killing me. I'm either getting too much turf and leaving it short or hitting it thin, as well as being off target, left or right. What could I be doing different with my irons than with my Driver?
December 9, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello David. It would be hard to say given there isn't a consistent type miss. Nevertheless, work on impact. Take a look at the Taking a Divot Video. It will help you start getting a little more consistent at the strike.
December 10, 2015
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Fred
For Jared Danford: Video is very good at expanding on your instructions about preserving shoulder position longer in my review of Dec 4. In that review, the FO video pane never showed, it remained black throughout the review. Can you redo the review, or have someone explain how I am to resubmit the review?
December 5, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Fred. I will notify customer service for you and they will prompt a new review.
December 5, 2015
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Gerben
I am struggling a bit shalowwing iT out coming down. Having made shoulder elevation going back, do I need to reverse that move coming down, because when I shift iT does not happen automatically for me.
December 3, 2015
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Steven (Certified RST Instructor)
Gerben-when you shift to the left the arms shoulder fall a little bit becuase of gravity and pulling. Try focusing on the squat to square move for sitting into the left side and allow the arms to fall, I would do left arm only swings utilizing the squat 2 square
December 3, 2015
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David
Hi guys Is the first movement of the arms for the right elbow to tuck into your side?
December 1, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello David. The first movement will be pulling the the lead side lat to start moving the arms in front of the chest. You don't want to try an jam the trail arm into your side. If you have struggle with lag in the past or trail arm movement. Take a look at the Key to Creating Lag and the Step by Step Right Arm Drills.
December 1, 2015
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Terry
Please clarify something for me in the sequence: at the top when shifting weight to the front heel, does the upper body shift toward the target with the lower body or "hold it's position" until the weight shift has completed and the downswing begun? I see my swing of video and it seems that my upper body is always moving left (I'm right handed) and I don't see any way I can create the lag I need in that position.
November 19, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Terry. When you shift to your lead foot. You want to make sure that you don't overly spin the shoulders and/or body. However, the upper half will follow the lower half. The sequence is from the ground up, but you don't want to try and hold the upper body from moving forward at all.
November 19, 2015
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Terry
Craig, I went out and tried the changes and found it I slowed down the initial movement from the top, everything fell into sequence and my dispersion was a lot more narrow. Probably no more than 10 yards with a 4 iron.
November 19, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Great! Keep it up!
November 19, 2015
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Terry
Still working on getting lag.
November 19, 2015
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Masato
Hello, how would I know if I'm on the correct plane in the downswing?
November 15, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hell Masato. Take a look at the Proper Golf Swing Plane Video.
November 15, 2015
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Masato
hello Craig, thank you for your reply. I find it difficult to navigate all the the videos in your site. Will check out the video later. Cheers
November 15, 2015
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Justin
Hey Guys, I've been working on the downswing for a while. I thought I was hitting the ball pretty well with my irons but very inconsistent with my driver. I was on a trackman and my swing shows an outside to in swing path by a few degrees. This is mostly apparent with my driver as I have to make compensations to keep from fading/slicing the driver. Do you have any drills (or swing thoughts) that can help ingrain an inside to out to swing path? (I don't seem to get enough power with the left arm only drill). Thanks for your help!
November 10, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Justin. Take a look at the Driver Launch Angle Video and the Sledgehammer Drill.
November 10, 2015
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David
Hey guys After watching a lag and release clip the other day Where he states that the wrists are never still in the swing. Do you start your downswing just before the backswing has finished? To decrease the lag angle?
November 10, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello David. Some players do start down before the backswing is finished. This will help with lag and over swinging. Take a look at the Start Downswing Before Completing Backswing Video.
November 10, 2015
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Frank J
CAN NOT VIEW E_MAIL. HELP, PLEASE.
November 6, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Frank. I will contact customer service for you.
November 6, 2015
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Yuefeng
Hello, I have two confusions when watching the video: 1) during weight shift to the left, is there any active rotation motion of the hips and upper body at all? Is the square of body at impact purely driven by arm release? Or is there some rotation (not excessive) to help with the square, and then rotation sort of stops to wait for the arms and clubs to release? 2) how to generate club head speed in downswing (assuming the backswing is all done correctly)? I used to turn my hips as fast as possible to generate speed, but knowing that this is not correct, question is if I just sit into the left side, obviously I can let gravity take over but that acceleration is naturally slow if I don't do anything else. I'm confused as to which action cause the club to accelerate and gain speed? Thanks a lot!
November 6, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Yuefeng. Take a look at the Hip and Hand Speed Video to see the difference of power from just the hips versus release. Also, the Left Hand Release Drill and Acceleration Profile Sequence. When you shift your weight the lead knee will externally rotate to help get the weight stacked and the lead oblique will start to pull the lead hip open. The lead arm will then pull the arms in front of the body. Take a look at Perfecting Lower Body Stability.
November 6, 2015
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Alvin
I just recently purchased the instructor certification manual level 1. The manual is superb. I would like your recommended reading material for D-plane, angle of attack, path and club face angle relationships as suggested in chapter 13. I posted here because I wasn't sure where else to do so.
November 4, 2015
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Steven (Certified RST Instructor)
Alvin-Glad to hear you like the manual. It has some great stuff in those pages. Thanks for the suggestions and we will pass along the information! Have a great day.
March 24, 2016
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Gary
Question- it appears that the release happens after the ball is struck, is that true. That is the way it looks in the video. Question - in Chucks ladd video he talks about the wrist and forearm rotating leaving the left elbow to swing straight down the line. He also says the rotation begins from the top of the downswing. It doesnt appear that way on this video - clarification would be helpful so I can train the wrist and forearm to do the appropriate thing. Please answer both questions Thank you Gary
October 30, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Gary. The club is always rotating. Albeit different rates at different points in the swing. However, in the video it still is rotating as Chuck describes. You can see how fast or much more it rotates in the hitting area with the Martin Kaymer Releasing for Speed Video. Don't try to massively rotate it at the top. It gradually rotates and then gains speed. The crossover happens after the ball is struck be the release of angles happen before impact. The trail arm has to remain a touch bent to apply force at impact. Probably, what you are seeing with a delayed look in the release.
October 30, 2015
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Anthony
In looking at this video it looks like the body's job is to transport the club, arms and hands through weight shift and some rotation to a point when the club is parallel to the ground and the hands are at the trail thigh. Then the body's job is to just support the arms and wrists as they apply the speed to the release of the club. Is that a good way of looking at the downswing ?
October 30, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Anthony. Sounds good to me.
October 30, 2015
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Lester
Hi RST Instructor - I'm working with Pat Callahan, specifically on the "downswing" move 3 (shift weight left and pull with left oblique). I have been hitting 'FAT' irons more than a few times a round recently and attribute that to NOT making a sufficient weight shift to the left side in the downswing - am I somewhat correct? What should I do to eliminate the 'FAT' iron shots???
October 27, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Lester. Improper weight shift can easily lead to the fat shot. Take a look at the Taking a Divot Video to understand the causes of hitting the chunky monkey!
October 27, 2015
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Lester
Thanks, Craig!
October 27, 2015
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James
Hi Craig after watching weight shift 3 over a dozen times I felt great I practiced the move over and over and then.............I tried to do it on our driving range and was hopeless ! So I started on my takeaway and backswing and started the downswing by pushing my left foot in the ground but I wish I could do that squat move !!!!!
October 15, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello James. It will come. It is more important for you now to get the weight on the lead side and shifting than a massive squat.
October 15, 2015
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Edmundo
Hi. I've practiced the backswing and happy with my position at the top. However during the transition as I shift weight left, I notice that 1) my right knee straightens out, and 2) the club stays behind but moves to flatter plane (hand from ear level to shoulder level). I find very difficult to "correct" this. What am I doing wrong? Thanks.
October 13, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Edmundo. It would be hard to say without actually seeing your video. There has to be some push involved with your trail leg and you aren't allowing it to get pulled up. Take a look at Perfecting Lower Body Stability and the Right Foot in the Downswing Video. Make sure you aren't pushing up towards the toe.
October 14, 2015
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Edmundo
I think it's because as I shift left, I continue to turn right somehow and overswing there? I saw these in the overswing videos where the arms get too far back, the righ elbow flares, and right leg straightens out. This was a fault I thought I corrected with backswing drills, but persists when I start the downswing. What can I do? Thanks.
October 14, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Edmundo. It is okay to start the downswing while finishing the backswing as long as the arms don't get separated. Take a look at the Start the Downswing Before Completing the Backswing Video to do it correctly.
October 14, 2015
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Rob
Hello, In relation to you mentioning not to push off with the right foot to transfer the weight and instead pull from the left side(2:30 in the video)... I often find I lose my balance during my follow thru of my swing and I end up taking another half step with my right foot. (weight going to my left quad and not my left glut?) I use the mental thought to push off with my right foot to start the downswing. Your lessons indicate this is improper and I should focus on pulling from the left side to get the weight moving to my left heel. Is this the correct mindset and action? Thank you, Rob
October 5, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Rob. You ideally want to pull yourself to the lead foot/side in the downswing. However, some players under use their hips and need a little help. You might fit into that category. Take a look at the Throw the Ball Drill Part 2 and the How to Use the Hips in the Golf Swing.
October 5, 2015
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Jon
My Downswing is always steeper than my backswing plane... regardless if I'm swing in-out or out-in. I'm shifting weight and pulling to the left side as hard as I can... right side completely turned off. Even doing a squat jump motion. Is this normal? I can def learn to play with it but curious as to if I'm doing something wrong.
October 4, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jon. I would be interested in seeing your backswing plane. Are you under it going back?
October 5, 2015
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Jon
Over the top of it and this is only with driver. Not strong enough right arm inflexion?
October 5, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jon. So, steep on the backswing and even steeper coming down? I'm wondering if you are rerouting too much on the downswing because of the plane going back. Over the top would typically be over use of the right side coming down. Use the LADD Video. Make sure you turn of the trail side, but don't bail out and pull the left shoulder from the shot too soon.
October 5, 2015
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Jon
It's even happening on a shallow backswing. Can the stiffness of the shaft have any effect?
October 5, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jon. Sometimes players with too stiff a shaft will make up for it with hard right side drive. Work on having a consistent plane going back. If your body is always guessing where the delivery position should be coming down it won't know whether to fire or wait. Then, work on missing a touch under coming down. Over the Top Stick Drill.
October 5, 2015
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Jon
The ball throw drill actually did the trick for me. Thank you for replying so quickly.
October 5, 2015
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Jason
In the downswing, how does one feel the left oblique pulling through? Any drills to work on letting the arms drop during the downswing?
September 29, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jason. How to Swing from the Ground Up (oblique), Re-Shaping Your Swing for Lag (arm drop), and the 5 minutes to the Perfect Downswing should help.
September 30, 2015
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charles
Thx Craig. Have looked at them was wondering if you had other thoughts?
September 28, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Charles. Understand that distance isn't speed from the top. Speed increases for power by releasing the angle. Martin Kaymer Releasing for Distance. You can't go from Reverse and then slam it into Drive or you will drop your transmission. Reverse - Neutral - Then, Drive.
September 28, 2015
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charles
What drill can I do to have a gentle move from back swing to down swing. I am way to quick and jerky. cheers and what a great site.
September 27, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Charles. Thanks for the compliments of our site. RST Tempo Drill and the Wide Narrow Wide should help you get a good shape with better rhythm and flow.
September 28, 2015
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Stéphane
Hi! I did a Trackman session today to confirm my tough that I was way inside out and yes I am. I am between 9 to 11 degree inside out and my angle of attack is 0 to 2 degree instead of negative... I would like to know what are the main cause of those numbers and what I can work on to get more on plane? Thanks!
September 21, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Stephane. You can use the Trace the Plane Line to help with too in to out. You are hitting to up on the ball. If you are too inside and flip at the last moment. You can get those numbers. Maintain lean (Fix Your Release) and zero out path (Trace the Plane).
September 21, 2015
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Terry
Are there any drills for moving your weight to the front leg on the downswing? I'd like to work on this move. I've use the weight shift drill but when I swing I'm still pushing off the right foot. Thanks Terry
September 14, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Terry. Perfecting Lower Body Stability Video, How to Swing from the Ground Up, How the Lower Body Works and the Level Shoulders (to keep form right hip push).
September 14, 2015
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Terry
Thanks Craig.
September 14, 2015
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Anthony
I'm having trouble getting elevation with my driver and fairway woods. It seems my ball position is ok but it feels like I am delofting the club somehow. Don't no if it's a release problem or not staying behind the ball, any advice on how to fix this issue. Thanks
September 12, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Anthony. Take a look at the Driver Launch Angle Video. See if a little more tilt and further up ball position helps with height.
September 13, 2015
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sambhu
Hey guys, great work helping folks like me enjoy this great but tough game. I think I figured out the squatting but how does one pull with the left oblique? I just squat into my left heel and swing through the ball with my right hand .is that bad?
September 9, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Sam. The right hand will help with speed, but you want to master pulling first. Take a look at the How to Swing from the Ground Up and the How the Lower Body Works to help with oblique pull. Thanks for the compliments of the site.
September 9, 2015
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Denys
I am noticing that my downswing is steeper than my backswing and that I have no lag. What should I be focusing on?
September 8, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Denys. You need to turn of your trail side. Work on some lead arm only drills. Proper Muscle Activation, Frisbee and Stop Coming Over the Top. It will help you shallow and create more lag.
September 8, 2015
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charles
Having problems with my tempo. I have this feeling of hitting at the ball at 100% . I'm jumping at it way to much. What do recommend for smoothing out my tempo? Cheers and luv the site.
September 6, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Charles. Thanks for the compliments of our site. RST Tempo Drill and the Perfecting Lower Body Stability Video. To help with tempo and keep the lower half stable (without the excessive jump).
September 7, 2015
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Stéphane
At impact, my left leg is flexed, not straight. What are the main reason I can look at? Is it usualy because I didn't decalerate the hips...too much lateral slide, etc? Thank you!
August 31, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Stephane. You don't have to have it perfectly locked straight by any means. However, the typical reason is trail side push leading to more of a slide/sway into impact.
September 1, 2015
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Stéphane
Well ok...but what about after impact then? I really don't think it looks normal that in the follow thru my left leg is still bent. Maybe I'm wrong just that I never saw a PGA pro swinging like that :oP Thanks for your help. Here's a picture to help you visualize my saying: http://s24.photobucket.com/user/leclairstephane/media/BentLeftLegAfterImpact_zpsu895etho.jpg.html?sort=3&o=0
September 1, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Looks like the weight gets to a little of the outside. Take a look at Perfecting Lower Body Stability and Straight Left Leg Video.
September 1, 2015
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Stéphane
Alright, I'll take a look. Thanks for you help Craig!
September 2, 2015
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Jarek
Not sure where to comment, but I began golfing in October of last year and started right away with rotary to build my swing. It is recommended that we follow the downswing videos/drills in the order that they are listed is that correct? I ask because I want to know which lag drill I should do first as I have never done anything like that before.
August 28, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jarek. Going down the list shouldn't be a problem. However, if you haven't trained lag before. I would Recommend starting withe the Re-Shaping Your Swing for Lag and the Frisbee Drill to start your journey. Then, trying to combine the pieces with the 5 Minutes to the Perfect Downswing.
August 31, 2015
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Evan
If you are too steep coming into impact/ above the plane line, from a DTL view, how do go about shallowing the swing?
August 26, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Evan. You need proper weight shift, some internal rotation of the lead arm and the trail side to be passive. Take a look at the Stop Coming Over the Top Video, Over the Top Stick Drill Video, and Proper Muscle Activation Video to help shallow out.
August 27, 2015
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Mitchell
Hi, I've been golfing for 45 years and it's amazing how I am still learning something everyday. Your teaching methods are very thorough and yesterday I had a breakthrough. However some confusion for me when I think the lead hand does nothing. I'm thinking about supinating the lead hand which feels like a pulling motion to me. Is the lead arm actually just along for the ride and the right arm is throwing the ball? At least the release drills feel as though I'm pulling the club through the strike. I feel as though I should be pulling the club through while supinating the wrists and throwing the ball. Can you give me a little more direction on what drills to get the correct feeling?
August 26, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Mitchell. The lead arm definitely has a job and will be the more dominant arm. The trail arm will add speed to the swing, but the lead will be the driver of the swing. The Frisbee Drill and the Re-Shaping Your Swing for Lag Video will help with giving you the correct training and feel.
August 26, 2015
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Mitchell
I shot one of my best rounds today. 91. For me that's good. That's with 5 penalty shots trying to learn the new technique. What I'm noticing, and you can tell me if this sounds Right. I'm swinging a lot easier, not as far back and about half as hard and I'm hitting the ball just as far if not farther with a lot less effort.
August 26, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Great. Yes, it makes sense to me. When you are more efficient in the swing. It takes less effort to produce the same amount of power. Let's cut down those penalties and keep going lower!
August 27, 2015
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Floyd
Hi - I have been working on this for a few weeks - and have made great progress but have one lingering issue. Historically at the top of my takeaway I was way across the line because of a hand/inside rolling takeaway - and most of that is gone but I am doing something on the initiation of the downswing where it is throwing the club almost vertical and causing real problems getting back on plane and in my ball striking. When I video and go back and forth over the initial move down/forward you can see it throw the club vertical. Do you think this is coming from an upper body issue (as in starting with that instead of the hip move)? It is driving me crazy!!! Thanks for all the videos - this is really a great teaching system (and I was a tennis coach for 30 years so I do know enough to make that statement!)...keep it coming! Thanks...Floyd Smith, Singapore
August 20, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Floyd. Thanks for the compliments of our site! Typically, it is the trail side that steepens the plane. It can be trail shoulder push too early or lack of weight transfer. Use the How to Swing from the Ground Up Video to help take tension out of the shoulders for the initial downswing transition. Also, the Proper Muscle Activation Video. If those don't help you shallow out more. Take a look at the LADD Video and understand the entire lead arm sequence coming down.
August 20, 2015
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Floyd
Thanks so much Craig - will do that...and let you know how it goes. All the best.
August 20, 2015
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Larry
Hi. I can really feel the difference when I shift my weight to the front heel before I initiate the swing. The problem I have is the feeling of falling a little backwards when I shift my weight to my heels. What is the tradeoff of pivoting on the heels, but keeping the arms swinging below the shoulders?
August 18, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Larry. You are shifting into the lead heel and then back into the trail heel to start the swing?
August 19, 2015
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Larry
I am not sure what you mean here. I am right handed. I do shift my weight to the back (right) heel on the backswing then to the front (left) heel on the downswing. Sometimes though, I feel my weight fall backwards (kinda like falling back on a chair) throughout that motion. This may be because I was used having my weight more towards my toes throughout the swing. I assume I should feel more balanced throughout the swing?
August 20, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Larry. Thanks for the clarification. This is what threw me off, "when I shift my weight to the front heel before I initiate the swing." I thought you were referring to starting the swing. Ok. Now, let's see if I can help. You want the weight to stay centered over the ankle joints. The feeling or sensation that the glutes "butt" stays back or out of the way is perfectly acceptable. You shouldn't have the sensation that you will fall over though. Take a look at the Weight on the Balls of Feet Video and Perfecting Lower Body Stability Video to make sure everything is on track.
August 20, 2015
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Anthony
At the top of my backswing the club and my hands are almost six feet above the ball and about three feet in from the ball. The way I'm looking at it to get the club head back to the ball, I need to first bring it down and that is done by the weight shift to the lead side and posting up, then the club and hands need to go out to the ball and that is accomplished by turning the lead oblique and then the arms and release bring the club forward. Is that a good way to look at the downswing. My problem has always been I bring the club out ( usually spinning the shoulders) before I bring it down.
August 18, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Anthony. Yes. It needs to be a blend of weight shift, gravity and pull. All components will lead to some vertical drop and forward motion necessary for the club to swing into impact correctly.
August 18, 2015
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Jason
Four different downswing initiatives: 1) I have my back to the target, I start shifting my lead hip left, and finally I have seen some lag on my face on and down the line video....but is creating way too much secondary tilt and it looks stupid on camera 2) my back to target, and push off my right foot. again way too much secondary tilt 3) my back to target, actively abduct my left thigh. that makes me look like some damn cowboy trying to ride horse, and again, too much secondary tilt. 4) my back to target, make sure my right knee does not allow over rotation, -squat as my first downswing movement---> let the rest follow on camera, number 4) looks very close to correctly having all of the alignment in order for the first time, I am very close....I just hope is finally the correct thing to do. is this what I should be doing? (I have looked at some of the squat videos). can I take this to the mulit-thousand rep level to ingrain it? I can't seem to otherwise find any good way to get to the left side without creating way too much secondary tilt (failures 1,2,3 above)
August 11, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jason. Back to the target, keeping the trail knee from moving too much (not allowing over rotation), and a good squat is perfectly fine. Secondary tilt is typically caused by trail side push. If you work on shifting and sitting into a good spot without trying to force the right side to shallow the plane you should be okay.
August 11, 2015
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David
I've heard it said that the faster the hands separate from the right shoulder on the downswing the better. This would mean the hands and arms fall downward and forward while the right shoulder moves very little. Could you comment on this and suggest drills to install this sensation of separation.
August 7, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello David. Correct. Take a look at the Throw the Ball Drill and the Sledgehammer Video in the Downswing and Advanced Downswing Section.
August 7, 2015
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Tony
you say "nothing is happening with the move, the club, the shoulders the hands", when clearly we see movement in all these items. The hands have moved down at least 12" the lead shoulder has rotated at at least 6 " and the club head has moved 3 '. please clarify.
July 31, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Tony. Things are happening. Chuck is just emphasizing to not spin or over activate at the top. It is a little blend of gravity and pull from the lead side. You can see this very well in the Re Shaping Your Swing for Lag in the Introduction Section.
August 1, 2015
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Brent
So I understand the weights shift but I am also a hip spinner. To stop the hip spin I am not shifting my weight well at all. instead my upper body is moving towards the target first. Help?
July 27, 2015
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Steven (Certified RST Instructor)
Brent- There are a few great videos to check out- hip spinner and squat to square are going to be the 2 best videos to tackle this situation we have. But above all make sure we are starting the downswing with the lower body first.
July 28, 2015
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Anthony
Craig, thanks for your reply. Am I correct in also thinking that after the weight is shifted to the left along with maintaining the right shoulder blade in the box, that even though the throwing motion of the right arm, the pulling of the left oblique, and the straightening of the left leg are taught or discussed seperately, that they actually occur simultaneously?
July 22, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Anthony. Somewhat you are correct. The sequence happens so fast it is hard to think about doing them all in pieces. Shift, pull from the oblique, as you start to straighten the lead leg the trail arm will fire.
July 22, 2015
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Anthony
So what is the best method for sequencing the downswing? Could you just focus on the left side and the right will fall into place or vice versa?
July 22, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Yes. I would focus the majority on the lead side. The trail side can be an added benefit once the lead side is mastered. And/or if you tend to create too much lag then give the trail side a little more of your attention.
July 22, 2015
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Anthony
Im curious if I'm thinking about the downswing in the correct way. At the top of the swing the right shoulder blade is down and in and the right habd is as far as possible from the right shoulder. The golfer's weight is shifted slightly to the right and the lower body is braced (squat to square). My question is if the flexion or loading that is felt in the right shoulder blade area is held constant or even increased while the weight is shifted to the left heel. Is this part of keeping the back turned to the target during the transition? I think i understand that the arms drop during this process but it doesnt work for me if I "let go" of the right shoulder blade during the shift. I hope this makes sense.
July 21, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Anthony. The flexion of the trail arm won't increase, but you should feel an increase in wrist angle. The trail shoulder will stay in its loaded and locked position in the box. Yes, the keeping the back to the target is during the transition so the shoulders don't fire too early. If you let the right shoulder blade go from the "box" position you will lose the ability to be able to transfer maximum power to the ball from core rotational speed.
July 21, 2015
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Karen
I am striking the ball much better but my miss is left with a bit of a slice (I am a leftie) and I have just started to hit a little behind the ball. Thoughts?
July 20, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Karen. You are probably not releasing properly if you have the sequence correct on the downswing. Take a look at Stop Slicing and Start Releasing in the Advanced Downswing Section.
July 20, 2015
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Kevin
I am hitting the golf ball much better but my miss is now left with a draw any thoughts.
July 18, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Kevin. If you are missing left-left you could be coming in too steeply or flipping the lead elbow with a shut face. Take a look at Stop Coming Over the Top in the Downswing Section to make sure you are working on plane. Also, the Left Elbow Impact Alignments Video in the Downswing Advanced Section to make sure you aren't flipping the arm.
July 18, 2015
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Ricky
Craig, I am hitting the ball high and right or duck hooks at times. I took a video of my swing and noticed the back of my lead hand is not facing the target at impact. It is facing more in front of me. I feel Like I am not releasing properly. Is this a possibility? I am a new member. Thanks. Ricky
July 17, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Ricky. Without a doubt. Take a look at the Left Hand Release Drill in the Downswing Section. It sounds like you are flipping at impact. The lead hand points away to give the block. Then, to counter the block the trail hand tries to save the shot and creates the hook.
July 17, 2015
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Ricky
Craig, so the flip is probably not due to flipping at the top, but to trying to save the shot at the bottom?
July 17, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Ricky. Yes, flip at the bottom.
July 17, 2015
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sambhu
Hi, I am a 14 handicapper and have no problem hitting it straight. I have greatly benefited from RST thanks to your site and all of you. The only struggle I have is the down swing. When I initiate my downswing with a sit down on to my left heel, when the sequence is good(timing) the compression is explosive and I pick up 10 yards on my irons..but most times.. I am unable to sequence it as the weight shift causes my arms to drop down and I end up mishitting the ball or pulling it . Is this just learning curve woes and do I keep doing what I am doing? or is there not such a pronounced move and I take the weight shift more subtle?
July 16, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Sam. As you shift your weight it is perfectly fine to allow gravity to help bring your arms down. In fact, a little blend of gravity and pull goes a long way. It's about the arms working down and in front versus shoulder spin. Take a look at Re-Shaping your Swing for Lag in the Introduction Section and see how pull/gravity/weight all help sync up the downswing into the strike.
July 16, 2015
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jeffrey
The suggestion to shift the weight to the left heel is a little misleading to me...because, I find I hit the ball best when I remember to feel like i'm swinging in a rotating manner from the top...as if swinging to right field until the rotation brings the torso, arms and club in a more direct path towards the ball. By focusing on shifting the weight directly to the left heel as the first move from the top, I tend to get a little off this rotating scenario from the top...with less than desirable results.
July 10, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jeffrey. I understand where you are coming from. However, lets think about it relative to any sport. So, if we take baseball. If you feel like you are swinging to right field do you still have to shift you weight? The best hitters first move is to plant into the lead side (step into it). Without it the swing wouldn't nearly be as efficient. Take a look at Swinging from the Ground Up and the RST Tempo Drill in the Introduction Advanced Section. Also, How the Lower Body Works in the Downswing Section.
July 10, 2015
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jeffrey
Craig..thanks for the timely reply. I should have ben more specific. I certainly accept and strive to make a weight shift to the "left" to initiate my downswing...but the feel that seems to work best for me is that there is a hint of an angled (let's say about 45 degree) initial move...as if the direction is initially towards the front of the left foot, and quickly it moves to the right heel. This feels as if this keeps my right shoulder back (and dropping) before I start turning. Then my turn feels more like its coming from the inside (rather than an over the toppish move).
July 10, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jeffrey. Take a look at the Weight on the Balls of Your Feet Video and the Swing Faults Caused by Poor Setup in the Setup and Setup Advanced Section. When the weight gets forward it causes stability issues. I want you to be the best you possibly can be. If you have great results I definitely don't want you to change. I can only say what Biomechanics allows me too.
July 10, 2015
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jeffrey
Okay...i'll check it out. I'm always open to better results.
July 10, 2015
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Francis
Help! I have been working on this and the 9 to 3 drill constantly, but I can't stop my upper body from taking over when I'm on the course. I don't cast as much as I did before RST, but still can't stop my brain from turning from the top! How do I get my lower body to be in control??? I know it would help to see my swing but I don't have a camera. Fran
July 5, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Fran. Take a look at Proper Muscle Activation and Swinging from the Ground Up in the Introduction Advanced Section to help.
July 5, 2015
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Francis
I have and I try, but when I'm on he course (and 75% on the range) my mind malfunctions and my shoulders than hands< or maybe the other way around, move faster than my lower body! I guess I need to get my swing o tape some how so I can up load it. Thanks!
July 5, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Video would definitely help. Sometimes seeing yourself is the ultimate tool to understand how much you need to exaggerate a position or feeling to get it correct.
July 5, 2015
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Francis
Craig, I just lost my phone so I have to buy a new one. Is it better to have hi-speed taping, so you can see more during playback? Also, noticed that there are only 2 spots available in your unlimited video review group. I can't commit until I figure out the camera problem. how often do spots open up? I know I'll do much better with constant review and instruction. Thanks!
July 5, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Fran. Hi-speed taping is better. But, any newer age smartphone or i"device" has plenty of good camera capabilities. Spots open up about 4-6 weeks. So, if you can't right now and need to wait. No worries. Let us know if we can help.
July 6, 2015
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JOHN
so as i shift & pull, should i try to keep my belt buckle behind the ball?...i cant seem to do that....
July 3, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello John. At impact the hips will be 30-40 degrees open. The feeling of keeping the belt buckle back is for the player that overly spins the hips straight from the top.
July 3, 2015
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Nhat
When I shift to left side by pressing my left foot to the ground, I couldn't keep the upper stay still. Usually my club will drop fast and my upper looked like casting from the top. I tried to keep the upper stay still by keeping my back point to the target as long as possible while doing weight shift to left side. But this rise another issue that I hit the ball with PUSH shot to the right. So, should I do the back to target drill and try to square the club soon?
June 29, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Nhat. The upper body still needs to shift. The feeling of keeping the shoulders closed or back to the target is to prevent spinning. The shift will start from the ground up, but you need to let the upper half follow and get stacked. Face On Impact Alignments Video Downswing Section to help get better stacked. Proper Muscle Activation in the Introduction Advanced Section to see lead arm usage while the trail shoulder stays passive.
June 29, 2015
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David
From the top of the backswing should I be trying to guide my arms in a certain direction coming down? I had a review done over a year ago on this site and he mentioned the feeling of the arms dropping behind you on the downswing but I have never heard chuck mention this? I find if I don't mentally guide my arms in a specific direction then they come down above the plane line, what am I missing?
June 24, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello David. You don't want to try and guide a certain position unless you are zeroing out the plane. In the Re-Shaping Your Swing Video Chuck talks about the gravity issue. Its a blend of gravity and pull. You don't want to just drop vertically or you have the potential to get stuck. Shift and add a little pull/gravity to shallow out.
June 24, 2015
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Terry
If you look at the "first move " as a shift of the lower body to the left heel, what happened to the upper body and head ? Do they rotate forward at the same time or after the lower body shift has been made?
June 22, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Terry. The whole body needs to shift. The lower half is just leading the way. Take a look at the How the Lower Body Works and the Sitting Into the Left Side in this section. The head will move forward slightly during the shift and very minimal rotation from the shoulders.
June 22, 2015
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Lee
Craig, I have another question about the review. Should I still be working on a little bit of left arm internal rotation to start the downswing or stop working on that now? Thanks.
June 18, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
You can continue you that work. But, the big thing is not too add too much going to the top.
June 18, 2015
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Anthony
When you talk about stalling the body in the downswing do you mean to stop rotating, I'm not sure what part of the body is stalling. It seems when I stop rotating and pulling with the left oblique I flip my wrists (especially my right wrist) at impact.
June 17, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Anthony. Take a look at the Acceleration Profile Sequence for Speed in this section advanced. Also, Increase Swing Speed by Hip Deceleration to understand better in this section advanced.
June 18, 2015
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Anthony
Thanks Craig, the videos helped a lot. Also, when I try to swing into center on the downswing it's seems to slow the body and stops my shoulders from spinning open. Is this a good swing thought and feel. Thanks
June 19, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
To get the snap at impact the body has to decelerate. As long as you are allowing yourself to release and feel the arms and hands passing the body through impact. No worries.
June 19, 2015
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Michael J
On the downswing what causes the club to bottom out (divot) behind the ball?
June 17, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Michael. Usually a loss of shaft lean, lag and lack of weight shift to the lead side. Take a look at the Taking a Divot Video in the Advanced Downswing Section.
June 17, 2015
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Lee
Wasn't sure where to ask this. When do you pull with the left arm in the downswing sequence wise and how do you pull as in what muscles do you use? I was thinking that using the entire left arm to pull causes all the muscles in that arm to get tight so it is harder to release the club properly. As a result I was thinking maybe you just pull with your tricep as far as the arm goes? Thanks.
June 15, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Lee. You are pulling with the lead lat. The tricep will get involved, but the majority the lead lat. Once you start getting the weight loaded into the lead glute you will start to pulling the lead arm.
June 15, 2015
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Lee
Ok so the sequence is weight shift with the lead lat until you get the weight loaded into the lead glute then you start pulling the lead arm? What muscles do you use in the lead arm to pull the lead arm when that time comes? Do you use all of them as in the forearm muscles too or just the triceps? Sorry, I didn't ask that as clearly as I should have the first time. I wasn't asking about how you pull in general but how you pull with the lead arm specifically. Hopefully that clarifies what I was asking. Thanks.
June 15, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Lee. The sequence is pulling the weight over to the lead side with left hip abduction. Plant the weight into the lead glute. Start pulling with the lead oblique to open the hips and pull with the lead lat to get the arms back in front of the body. Don't over think it too much. Pulling with the lead arm is natural like the Frisbee drill. All muscles will be involved, but the major one is the lat. Into the release there will be some forearm rotation and the lead wrist releasing the angle.
June 15, 2015
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Lee
Hmmm ok Craig. I think I understand and that helps. Good to know that all the muscles are involved including the forearm muscles. I am kinda surprised because I thought this would inhibit releasing the club as it would cause tension in those muscles but I guess you are saying it won't? I just wanted to make sure I am not pulling with the left arm incorrectly causing me to not be able to release the club because of the forearm muscles being too tense since releasing the club seems to have been a problem for me and I know that tense muscles have a hard time releasing. I am not trying to over think it for sure. Not thinking about it has not worked for me so I needed to make sure I was doing the sequence right. I don't know why I don't naturally do it. Maybe because of bad habits I had formed with compensations from doing the downswing the wrong way for so long. I am the kind of person that the more that I can understand about how and why the better I am able to perform a different motion especially if I don't naturally do it without thinking about it. The problem has caused me to go to this level to see if I was using muscles I should not have been. I really like understanding things as well and find it interesting and helpful. That is something I really like about the site is that Chuck has broken it down to the muscular level and it makes it much easier I think to figure out what you may be doing wrong as a result and to do what is right too. I think it really simplifies things. It is so good to not only know what to do and why you do it but exactly how you do it which again for me doesn't complicate things but instead really simplifies them. Thanks for your patience with me and my questions. Sorry for asking so many. It is definitely helping me.
June 15, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
No worries Lee. Thanks for the compliments of the site and instruction. You will create engagement will will cause some tension. The key is to engage, not hulk stress or lock a muscle.
June 16, 2015
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Lee
Ok, I will try that. Thanks Craig.
June 16, 2015
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Mark
I struggle with initiating this move without a pushing motion. How do I initiate a move to my lead heel with a pulling motion? What does that feel like? Pushing from the inside of the foot from my trailing heel feels more natural, because there is more weight on my back foot at the top of my back swing. ie. At an extreme, if all my weight were on my back foot, any pulling motion you'd think would result in a turn not a lateral movement. Thanks guys...really enjoying my membership.
June 12, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Mark. Glad you are enjoying your membership. Take a look at the How the Lower Body Works Video in the Downswing Section and the RST Tempo Drill in the Introduction Section. Both will give you a drill to help pull the weight to the lead side.
June 12, 2015
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Louis
Should I be feeling some lateral side bend on the right side in the downswing/release sequence.....feels like that is what is making room for the right arm.... After feeling this, I am wondering if I should be feeling it in the backswing at all....
June 9, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Louis. You don't want to feel too much because you might end up having an excess of secondary tilt. But, I can see why you feel a little that way.
June 9, 2015
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Louis
I struggled with over-swinging for a long time and losing my spine angle....since working on it I am feeling more side bend after the takeaway and near the release...
June 9, 2015
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Louis
Craig is this normal to feel it on the left side at the end of the backswing? It seems that is preventing me from over rotating my torso....
June 11, 2015
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Greg
Hi RJ, It's been awhile, so I thought I would bug you with another question. Recently I am struggling getting my weight too much on the ball of my left foot on the downswing, which then restricts my hips from turning the full 30/40 degrees at contact. This results of course in a struggle to square the club face. I have been working with video to let the club drop so I am on plane and then turning through like the 9 to 3 drill but too often I end up with my weight too far forward. Any suggestions? Thanks!
June 7, 2015
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
Greg, take a look at the "Sitting into the left side" video. If you have your hips rotated back behind you and you push into the ground with your left heel, it wouldn't be possible to have your weight out on the toes of your feet. It's likely that you're losing your spine angle, which is getting your pelvis to move forward and getting your weight on the balls of your feet. R.J.
June 8, 2015
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Mark
Is it appropriate to set up/complete the proper weight transfer to the left side by moving the left hip to the left at address and placing weight on the right instep during the backswing while maintaining the original spine angle such that at or near the peak of the backswing a minor amount of weight shift to the left heel will result in virtually all weight being on the left side to begin the downswing.
June 5, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Mark. If I gather what you are saying with change in the setup. You don't want to preset the weight on the lead side. By taking away the shift away from the target you are changing a bunch of factors. Momentum change from trail to lead glute helps produce lag, smooth tempo, and 14.4% of power comes from transferring the weight efficiently.
June 5, 2015
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Mark
Craig, I am not suggesting modifying the RST setup but I was referring to Chuck's recommended setup in one of the setup videos of a slight shift of the left hip at setup--that he states assists in the move to the left. I was wondering whether this is a key to a smooth postup onto the left leg while more easily avoiding a disjointed, too strong hip shift resulting in too much secondary axis tilt.
June 6, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Ahh. Gotcha. Yes, the hip bump/with tilt is definitely a key to get you in the correct setup for posting on the lead leg correctly.
June 6, 2015
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Dan
Hi. How far in front of the right hip should the right elbow be in the downswing? In order to maintain lag I feel like it needs to be very much in front. Thoughts? Thx
June 1, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Dan. It doesn't have to be too far. Just working in front, so you don't get stuck and fire early.
June 1, 2015
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Dan
Hi. In the downswing I've been focusing on getting my lead (left) hip to move away from the target as my hands approach impact. I've noticed it gives me more lag, gives me better impact alignments and more forward shaft lean. Is this correct? When I look at video of Chuck's swing it looks like the lead hip actually moves toward the target. Please clarify. Thx
May 26, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Dan. You will shift into the lead side and then the lead oblique pulls the hip out of the way. Take a look at the How the Lower Body Works Video in the Downswing Section.
May 27, 2015
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Dan
Thanks Craig. I appreciate it. That video makes me realize how important decelerating the hips is. Without it there is huge wasted energy, right? It also makes me realize that I don't think I'm very good at posting up and decelerating. Are there other drills I can do other than the one in the "How the Lower Body Works" video?
May 27, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Dan. Yes, if you don't decelerate you will have the tendency to drag the club through versus release the energy. Perfecting Lower Body Stability in the Weight Transfer Advanced Section and the Increase Swing Speed by Decelerating in the Advanced Downswing Section.
May 27, 2015
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Ed
I just started rotary swing. The most difficult part for me is the transition and down swing. The videos are helpful but my body is having a difficult time doing what I want it to. Biggest fault is hitting fat. I think I am not getting posted up on my right side properly. Any comments will be appreciated. I will record my swing and send it in within a week. Thx
May 26, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Ed. A swing review will definitely help your cause. Look forward to checking it out. In the meantime, take a look at the Taking a Divot Video in the Downswing Advanced Section. Learn better how to post up, use lag, and forward shaft lean to rid the fat shot.
May 27, 2015
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Chadd
Is there a video that will help me stop being so handsy/flippy through the hitting zone?
May 26, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Chadd. The left Hand Release and Vijay Release Drill in the Downswing and Advanced Downswing Section. They will teach you how to use the lead hand efficiently to release instead of flipping with the trail hand or breakdown of the wrists.
May 26, 2015
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Chadd
Thank you
May 27, 2015
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Christopher
I've always been a downswing spinner (esp. with the shoulders). It DOES feel stronger. So, I've been working on keeping my shoulders closed during the downswing - and I'm starting to see positive results. However, I'm seeing my shots go a little right of target. I'm thinking I'm overdoing keeping my shoulders shut. Question #1: Do the shoulders start to square just before impact and help to square clubface? Question #2: Assuming #1 is true, does this shoulder rotation help add some small amount of additional power to the swing?
May 25, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Christopher. The shoulders will square at impact, but you don't need to rely on them when squaring the face. You could be a tad shut, but much better than being way open in your case. Shoulder rotation and deceleration do add power in the golf swing. Take a look at the Acceleration Profile Sequence in the Downswing Advanced Section.
May 25, 2015
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Paul
I find that when I keep my wrists very supple to try to help with the downcock that the momentum of the back swing brings my club too far horizontal on the backswing. Ie Phil Michelson like.... which according to RST is not good. help. slow down backswing...hold on tighter ? what is the solution ?
May 25, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Paul. Keeping the wrists supple is a good thing, but can be over done. Smoother backswing, good trail arm motion ( 3 Functions of the Right Arm - Advanced Backswing Section), and gradual wrist set (Using the Wrist Efficiently Video in the Introduction Advanced Section) will help.
May 25, 2015
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Paul
do you recommend a slow backswing and a slight pause..at top before the lateral shift or sitting into left side or more fluid
June 23, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Paul. Some players need to start the transition early in order to not over-swing. Some pause for tempo preferences. It is kinda player dependent on rhythm and tempo. For me and other RST Swingers you can tend to see a fluid transition. Not a complete pause/stop, but enough to notice a change of gears.
June 23, 2015
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robert
Hi...I really like the video with Chuck where he rotates the forearms going back while keeping the wrists supple. Coming down into ball he keeps the left arm or back of elbow going thru impact as the wrists roll over and not the forearm. Is that a good sense of understanding that video? Can you add anything to that?. Thanks
May 22, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Robert. Yes, that is a good sense. Most players tend to flip over the lead elbow too soon. There is some forearm rotation, but it can easily be over done.
May 22, 2015
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Nathan
My weight really wants to drive onto my left toe (instead of heel) and push weight toward to initiate my shift into my left side to start the downswing. Can i put something under my left toe (tennis ball)? to help encourage weight back into the heel or do i risk injury doing this?
May 21, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Nathan. The training aid might fix the problem, but won't teach the necessary training. Take a look at the How the Lower Body Works Video in the Downswing Section. Use the "stomp drill" to get the transfer correct.
May 22, 2015
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Edward
Q what should the grip strength be? I was right hand dominate without hardly any lag, but now I have some lag and focus on my left hand. what about my right hand ? is it 50/50?
May 21, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Edward. The lead hand should be just slightly stronger than neutral. The trail hand should have the "v" formed between the thumb and pointer finger aimed at the trail shoulder joint. The Golf Grip How To Video in the Setup Section.
May 21, 2015
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robert
Thanks but how does the right arm feel from the top and thru the ball...
May 21, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Robert. The right arm should feel like it is going for a ride. He is a passenger.
May 21, 2015
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robert
Craig. What time in the swing does the left arm take control in the swing?
May 21, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Robert. You need to think about it as a blend. The lead arm will be in control on the downswing. When you shift back into the lead side there will be a little bit of gravity and pull. The more you start coming down into impact the more the lead arm will start to dominate over gravity. Shift and a little fall/pull. Roughly, when the hands start reaching belt height and the lead arm has just passed parallel to the ground the lead arm will dominate the majority.
May 21, 2015
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robert
Hey craig bob here...two questions. When we start backswing do I start back as though swinging with left arm only and do I swing down and thru ball feeling a more dominant left side with the right arm hanging on for the ride?
May 21, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Robert. When you start the backswing. The lead arm will work the same way back as in lead arm only swing. However, make sure you are using the trail side to pull yourself back. The big muscles pull the club back. You don't allow momentum to swing the club back lead arm only. Coming down just as you described. Shift into the lead glute and it will feel very lead side dominant into the strike.
May 21, 2015
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Dan
Hi. In the downswing I understand that we want to create lag starting from the top in the backswing. How important is it to create lag without having any cupping in the left hand/wrist? I've noticed that it is easier to create greater lag if the wrist does cup. But since we don't want any cupping at impact (we strive for more of a bowed left wrist) I assume we shouldn't have any cupping of the left wrist anywhere in the backswing even if it helps create more lag. Please clarify. THanks.
May 18, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Dan. It is easier to create lag with cupping, but will require more manipulation to correct on the way down to impact. Concentrate on getting the club closer, but not a lag monster until you can monitor the wrist better.
May 18, 2015
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Dan
Thanks Craig. What is the best way to avoid cupping throughout the swing?
May 18, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Dan. A couple things to check. Make sure the lead hand is correctly placed on the club. An overly strong grip will make it easier to cup. Practice lead arm only swings. Feel what the proper amount of rotation should be and how to softly add more lag/better release.
May 19, 2015
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Dan
Thanks Craig. Are there videos on the site that directly address what you are recommending? Thx
May 19, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Dan. The Frisbee Drill in the Weight Transfer Section will help with lead arm control. Also, the LADD Video in the Downswing Section.
May 19, 2015
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Robert
can't find 5 minutes to a perfect release. Search engine does not locate it.
May 16, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Bob. 5 Minutes to the Perfect Release is located in the Downswing Section.
May 16, 2015
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Donald
Hello. Is sitting into the left side, keeping the wrists soft and thinking of the butt of the club heading for the golf ball a good swing thought to start the downswing. cheers. Donald
May 16, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Donald. I like the sit into the lead side and keeping the wrists soft. However, don't focus too much on the butt end just yet. Think about pulling your lead arm into the hitting area.
May 16, 2015
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Alejandro
I've been working on this quite a bit now. What I feel is that there's some weight transfer I need to do to the left side before I feel I can pull from the left side. This is, when I'm with all the weight transferred to the trail side, I can't just start pulling from the left immediately, I need "a little push" from the right before I can feel powerful enough to do the "stomping" with the left leg. Does this make sense ? What am I doing wrong ?
May 14, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Alejandro. You should be able to transfer the weight to the lead side without the need to push off the trail side. However, if you tend not to use the hips enough in the golf swing (the opposite of the majority of golfers) you can use a little push to get the hips going. Take a look at How to Use the Hips in the Golf Swing and the Throw the Ball Drill Part 2 in the Downswing Section.
May 14, 2015
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Sergio
Hello Craig. I would like to know which is the best video or drill that talks about the unwind at the start of the downswing. In the Self Analysis section I am seeing that Chuck's unwind is a perfect semi-circle rotation, whereas my unwind is not as compact and in a "rotational motion" like Chuck's, but more like a arm thowing to the ball. Thanks in advance, regards.
May 7, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Sergio. The How the Lower Body Works Video in the Downswing Section will explain the kinetic chain to illustrate the sequencing better. The "stomp drill" in that video helps make it more from the ground up. Also, the 5 Minutes to the Perfect Downswing in this section.
May 8, 2015
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Sergio
thanks a lot Craig, it was very clear.
May 8, 2015
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Seth
Sometimes chuck shifts without the squat and sometimes he places squatting as the shift. How do you reccommend learning and engraving the weight shift? Shift fist and learn the squat shift later or start out learning the shift as a squat. I am having a heard time timing coming out of the squat.
April 23, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Seth. Sometimes Chuck's squat isn't as apparent (but it is there). Most of the videos exaggerate the look of the squat so you can see it. The key for you is to feel that you shift the weight first. Then, you start to load the glutes on the way down. You don't need a massive vertical drop to engage them. Learn to shift first, then focus on the squat. Weight Shift Video Part 3 in the Weight Transfer Section. Also, RST Tempo Drill in the Introduction Section. Perfecting Lower Body Stability Video Weight Transfer Advanced Section.
April 24, 2015
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Daryl
When starting the downswing, what should be the primary focus in powering the swing 1. Focusing on powering the swing with the body and letting the arms go along for the ride or 2. Focusing on the left arm being the primary lever and pulling the club through or 3. Focusing on the right arm powering the swing as promoted by the Mike Austin type of swing? I saw a slow mo of Jason Day recently and he had a slightly bent left arm at contact, which leads me to believe he is powering his swing with his right arm to some degree (as well as Jordan Spieth).
April 23, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Daryl. The trail arm will add speed in the swing. The majority of players however way over use it. Jason and Jordan release really well with their lead side, so they can add some trail arm usage. All muscles have a job to do in the swing. Nevertheless, you will feel more shifting the weight to the lead side and lead arm being primary lever pulling and releasing through the shot. Take a look at the Frisbee Drill in the Weight Transfer Section.
April 24, 2015
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howard
This has always been a big fault of mine. I can't seem to move to my left side without pushing from my right foot. My hips pop out towards the ball and I lose my spine angle and have to flip/time the club through impact. And depending on the level of pressure or tension I hit a obscene pull hook off the planet. I'm a new member but a fairly good player that's been trying to find a drill that will help me learn this important move. Help please. And thank you
April 20, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Howard. Here are a few videos. Downswing Section - Sitting Into the Left Side. Downswing Advanced Section - Role of the Right Foot, Losing the Tush Line, and Squat to Square.
April 20, 2015
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Tim
And when I say bend my spine, I mean forward not to the side.
April 15, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Tim. Take a look below.
April 16, 2015
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Tim
My downswing, or is it more in the follow through maybe... I tend to bend my spine. Looks goofy! Cant really figure out what i'm doing (planning to send in a video for review), but until then - any ideas what i'm doing wrong?
April 15, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Tim. I think you are referring to secondary axis tilt. Take a look at the Level Shoulders Drill in the Advanced Downswing Section and the Impact Alignments Face On Video.
April 16, 2015
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Matthew
Also, from the last post, isn't it more difficult to alter swing path than it is to aim further left or right and slightly increase release or slightly decrease the release? It seems difficult to practice different swing paths when it is difficult enough to keep the club on plane through the back and downswing. Just wanted to hear your thoughts on this or what is taught to be most efficient.
April 15, 2015
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
Matthew, RST teachings are based on building a swing that requires the least amount of compensations as possible. So, it would be natural to think that we would want to make small adjustments in the stance and then make the same swing. There are also studies being done that might prove that it would be beneficial to keep the swing exactly the same and just hit the ball off the heel or toe end of the club to work the ball with how forgiving that clubs are today, but like I mentioned in the other reply, check out Clay's 9 days to amazing ball striking. R.J.
April 17, 2015
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Matthew
Can you tell me with rst if it is taught to always line up down the target line even when playing draws and fades? This would mean that swing path manipulation would be made instead of lining up open with less left hand rotation through impact to hit the fade correct? Since we are lining up at target line and the swing path becomes out to in to hit a fade, we wouldn't have to manipulate the release since our out to in path to our shoulder line would automatically minimize that release to promote that Fade as well correct?
April 15, 2015
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
Matthew, check out the 9 days to amazing ball striking by Clay Ballard. You'll find everything you need to know about working the ball in that video series. Good luck on your progress! R.J.
April 17, 2015
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Terry
When starting the downswing (R-handed golfers), how much (what percentage) of your weight is initially set on the left side? If not 100%, when does it get to 100%? thx T2
April 15, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Terry. When you shift your weight back to the lead side. You will be shifting roughly 80-90 percent of the weight to the lead leg into impact. You won't get to 100 until you finish the release and into the finish position.
April 15, 2015
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Matthew
At about the 5:30 mark the LADD video discusses even more internal rotation of the left arm when starting the downswing (posting it here bc I'm not getting a response in the comments section of that video). I do a great job getting on plane at the end of my back swing, but the club wants to start getting a little steep as soon as I start my transition of sitting into my left side in the downswing and I "feel" as though I can't internally rotate my left arm anymore to get that flattening effect. Any suggestions on things I can feel or work on to achieve this? Also, when I make a good swing and my shaft follows my right arm on the downswing from DTL, at waist high it feels like the club really needs to release hard to get back to the ball to not block it (which doesn't feel good having to flip hard) and it also feels like I'm not on top of the ball either to really compress it when the club is that far inside (not inside, but feels inside from what I'm used to). I'm coming from a slightly steeper angle of attack so it doesn't feel right yet, even though confirmation of swings like Tigers and Chucks confirms this is the right positions as I look at them.
April 14, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Matthew. I just checked the LADD Video Comment Board and do not see your question. I apologize for the error. You need to try an exaggerate the feeling early. If you take a look at the Over the Top Stick Drill in the Advanced Downswing Section and Day 1 Starting Line in the 9 Days to Amazing Ball Striking. Start it well right of the stick (for right handed player) you will have to shallow out earlier than coming in a little steep. Also, some left arm only swings in the Proper Muscle Activation Video in the Introduction Section will help. The club needs to rotate. You are probably not used to so much face rotation coming into impact. Don't flip, let it release. Left Hand Release Drill Advanced Downswing Section.
April 14, 2015
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charles
youve got to fix this web site its totally a night mare
April 14, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Charles. Is there something I can assist you with?
April 14, 2015
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Rick
Rick A.B., I am very satisfied w/ rst.com.. Sometimes with communications there is an intent that is confusing. I think that I am coming around with my swing but I wonder if others that interpret @3:25 Chuck uses his right arm to discribe "shifting first, pulling second while using his right hand. Shouldn't I be pulling with my left hand ? I am certain that I could easily have done this myself! Maybe this should be addressed. Rick
April 12, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Rick. Happy to hear you are enjoying the site and material. Yes, its the lead arm you need to be pulling with. Thank you for pointing this out.
April 13, 2015
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Dave
There is a video on the site in which Chuck holds the club only in his left hand and swings to the top and then on through the downswing, emphasizing a weight shift and no rotation of the body into the follow-through. I cannot find that video again. Can you point me in the right direction?
April 10, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Dave. There are a few videos like you describe. Try the Proper Muscle Activation Video in the Introduction Advanced Section and also the LADD Drill in the Downswing Section. If they are not the ones you are looking for, let us know.
April 10, 2015
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Dave
Thanks, but I think it is still a different one. No impact bag (as I recall), face on. First he illustrates the left arm, then separately the right arm (unless I am hallucinating). The point was to show that the left arm swings down and through and the body is relatively passive.
April 10, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Re-Shaping Your Swing for Lag in the Introduction Section?
April 10, 2015
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Dave
That's it! Thanks very much.
April 10, 2015
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Anthony
In looking at other downswing videos you use the terms stabilize and stall. I think the pushing of the lead heel and the post up of the lead leg stabilize the body but what technique or muscles stall the body, thanks
April 1, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Anthony. The lead glute and post up help stall the hips. The Increase Swing Speed by Deceleration in the Advanced Downswing Section is a great video to feel total body stall.
April 1, 2015
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Antonio
Good morning! I've worked hard this off season to stop coming over the top. I a really bad slice with the driver. I practice with the drill stop coming over the top. well i went out yesterday on the course and everything was a dead hook. Im really lost right now. can anyone help. Thxs
March 19, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Antonio. You were probably just losing your levels too much (shoulder tilt - secondary axis tilt hanging back) and flipping at it with the trail hand. Work to get more stacked and lead arm control as you shallow out the swing. LADD Video and Face On Impact Alignment in the Downswing Section.
March 19, 2015
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Martin
craig been working on getting club on same plane as left arm and going well but still see the club coming down steep should i try pushing less from right side, pulling more with left, or working right shoulder down on downswing? was also thinking of having club head feel as its falling to horizontal as i come down? thanks martin
March 18, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Martin. Its gravity and lead arm pull. If you start trying to drop the trail shoulder in the downswing you will get stuck. The lead side is what does the shallowing. Do some left arm only Re-Shaping Your Swing for Lag Drills and Proper Muscle Activation Drills in the Introduction Section. The horizontal notion you talk about is ok to a certain degree. In the LADD Video (Downswing Section). The first part of internal rotation is the same feeling.
March 18, 2015
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joel
The divot is in front of the ball but I still have a mid - high trajectory
March 16, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Take a look at the Knuckles Down Drill in the Advanced Downswing Section. If you can perform the drill correctly. You will be able to flight it better and know you have forward lean.
March 16, 2015
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joel
After working on the release drill for awhile and I started hitting full shots in slow motion how do I know if I have the forward press that I wont at impact or not
March 16, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Joel. A camera is the best way to tell about shaft lean. If a camera isn't available to you. The divot will typically be in front of the ball and a mid-low compressed trajectory.
March 16, 2015
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Jesse
Is there a pause? Is there a video?
March 14, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jesse. Are you wondering is there a pause during the transition from the backswing into the downswing?
March 14, 2015
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Jesse
Do you pause at the top of the backswing?
March 15, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Jesse. Technically, there isn't a complete stop at the top. But, it will feel like a pause. Think about it like a car. Reverse - Neutral - Drive. Reverse is the backswing, Neutral is slowing down and shifting into the lead side and Drive is the downswing. If you skip Neutral and slam it into Drive. You will drop your transmission.
March 15, 2015
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Jesse
Thank you!
March 15, 2015
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Francis
I seem to notice that by shifting weight to the left leg (which is the start of move 3) before the backswing is completed, i get to hold lag better. Is this accurate or am I just imagining it? And is it the correct thing to do?
March 11, 2015
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Steven (Certified RST Instructor)
Francis, You are correct in saying we want to transfer the weight left before "finishing" the backswing. You are also correct by assuming when we do this we are able to maintain lag longer and better into the hitting area. There is actaully a video on this exact subject, check it out- http://www.rotaryswing.com/videos/full-swing-advanced/weight-shift/start-downswing-before-completing-backswing
March 12, 2015
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Dennis
Three questions (1) how can I avoid straightening up as I go through the downswing (2) how do I avoid my left wrist breaking down after impact? (3) How do I keep my left shoulder down through impact? I am attending the clinic in Orlando in April. Will these questions be answered then?
March 11, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Dennis. For 1) Take a look at the Proper Lower Stability in the Weight Transfer Advanced Section. Make sure a good shift into the glutes. 2) Left Hand Release Video and 5 Mins to the Perfect Release in the Downswing Section. 3) Level Shoulders Drill Advanced Downswing Section. Yes, in the clinic these topics of staying in impact and learning how to release properly will be discussed and practiced.
March 12, 2015
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Miguel
Would a correct move on this transition be pushing the right foot down into the ground while simultaneously going to left side? Basically squatting moving from right to left.
March 6, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Miguel. You want to pull yourself from the left/lead side in the transition. Try and shy away from right foot push. If you are struggling with the move. Try the RST Tempo Drill in the Introduction Advanced Section. Also the "stomp drill" in the How the Lower Body Works Video Downswing Section.
March 9, 2015
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Anthony
Steven, thanks for the advice, using the left thigh to get the weight over is a big help but I'm not to sure how to use the left oblique. When I use the left oblique it seems to turn my right shoulder and right side over and foward and I get in front of the ball. Is the turning of the left oblique more of an upward turn which will make my right shoulder and right side go under and not around and forward or does the turning of the left oblique clears the left side so the right side can work under. Thanks
March 2, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Anthony. Its hard to feel that oblique muscle. Most of us (including me) don't have a 6 pack of abs and a few too many potato chips in the tank. You can find many videos online and on our site that deal with working the core muscles for more awareness. However, take a look at the Increase Swing Speed by Deceleration in the Advanced Downswing Section. It will help with the shoulders staying square and pulling the lead hip open with the oblique. Also, the "stomp drill" in the How the Lower Body Works Video in the Downswing Section will help with fire and pull. The pull will be more a rotational turn, than an upward one.
March 3, 2015
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Earl
Craig, Thank you!!!!!
March 3, 2015
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Earl
Anthony, I agree! see my comments below.
March 2, 2015
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Earl
I found the left oblique, and I here a lot of references to pull with the left oblique, but honestly, I don't know what that feels like. Moving your right shoulder to the middle of your back is very clear. Sitting into your left heel is clear; However, how do you pull with your left oblique???? whats the feeling? I get to top, sit into my left heel.....and LOST!! Help!!! I want to swing my arms.
March 1, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Earl. Take a look at my reply above to Anthony. See if it helps.
March 3, 2015
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Anthony
I understand the moves you make in this video but I have a very difficult time using my lower body and I mostly start my downswing from the top. Is there an image or swing thought you can give me to help me with this impulse of starting my downswing from the top. Thanks
February 28, 2015
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Steven (Certified RST Instructor)
Anthony, I great feeling to have when we start the downswing is to keep the upper body quite. You can feel that as your weight is being shifted into the left heel (assuming RH) your upper body doesn't spin or move. Once the weight is in the left side of the body the left arm is going to be roughly parallel to the ground. If you find that shoulders are spinning, that is due to pushing from the right side too much in the downswing. Really feel that the first move in the downswing is the external rotation of the left thy muscle which pulls the weigth left moving the hip/knee over the ankle in a nice stacked position. Work on the transition drill, that will help a lot in learning to sequence the downswing in the proper movements.
February 28, 2015
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Vincent
The problem that doesn't seem to go away with me (except on the driving range where I'm PGA material) is after shifting to my left foot heel, I turn my hips and my left shoulder follows. Therefore, I hit crisp shots but pull them left because my hands follow my left shoulder...of course. I have a very shallow swing anyway, but I need a video about turning my hips properly without 'spinning' my hips. I am a 9 handicap and its very frustrating that I can't seem to get past the downswing for proper club path. Thanks
February 20, 2015
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Dave
The problem is the same for me also. I am hitting the ball alot farther but the pull draw/hook is the bulk of my strikes. Its gotten so bad I have gone up 4 an my handicap. However.....I am sticking with the RST program and the drills from my reviews. Good luck Vincent.
February 22, 2015
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Steven (Certified RST Instructor)
Vincent, getting to the left side is going to be very important. To get the weight left take your upper left thy (assume right handed) and externally rotate it counterclockwise to the left that will pull the left knee and hip over the ankle thus moving weight left. We want the rotation of the hips and the weight transfer to be seperate. If we try to rotate our hips and transfer the weight left the likely result is going to be a hangback with the weight not moving left. I great video to help with your hip spinning is the hip spinner video in the downswing section. Go check that out. also check out sitting into the left side. Steven
February 20, 2015
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dane
Hi, In the down swing am I to keep my head behind the ball, I've found when I do this my axis.tilt is pretty severe. When I let my head go forward of the ball about 3 in I can stack my.left side and have the optimal axis tilt. Can someone describe what the head does from the takeaway to the follow through please !!
February 15, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Dane. The head does move in the golf swing. Even with the shift into the lead glute the head will remain behind though. The head is connected to the body. Therefore, when you shift 1 inch into the trail glute the head will move about 1 inch. Same for the downswing. The 3 inch shift back into the lead glute will move the head slightly forward.
February 16, 2015
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dane
Thank you!
February 16, 2015
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Anthony
I have heard the term "shallow out the plane "in the downswing. If term is correct what is it and how do you do it. Is it the same as secondary axis tilt that you mention in some of the videos.
February 15, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Anthony. Shallowing out the plane is bringing the club more underneath or on the plane line versus being steep. Above the plane line coming down. Take a look at the LADD and Stop Coming Over the Top Video in the Downswing Section to understand more about lead arm shallowing and plane.
February 15, 2015
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John
Hi, my question is regarding the right shoulder in the downswing, does the right shoulder work towards the golf ball or will that cause an over the top? Or should the right shoulder work straight down? Please help. Thanks,
February 12, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello John. (Right Handed Player). The right shoulder will remain very passive. You don't want to throw the right shoulder towards the ball. It will tend to feel like it is staying back more and keeping linked to the core by the maintaining of your external humeral rotation. Take a look at the Throw the Ball Drill in the Downswing Section.
February 12, 2015
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Anthony
Craig, what do you mean by external humeral rotation.
February 15, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
External humeral rotation keeps the club on plane and locks the scapula in the backswing. You want to maintain the positioning coming down into the ball. Take a look at the Overswinging Video and the 3 Functions of the Right Arm Video in the Backswing Advanced Section.
February 15, 2015
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Edward
I've been working on the downswing and can't seem to keep from getting stuck resulting in pushes, hooks or pull hooks depending on the timing of the release. Divots point 10 - 15 degrees right of target line. I've always had an aggressive compression move to start the downswing and the club starts on plane but tends to drop slightly below plane as my hands get to waist level. At impact around 10-12 degrees of forward shaft lean. Not sure what to work on first - pulling with left side, reducing amount of lateral lead hip movement [it's about 8-10 in.] or focusing on swing plane. Any recommendations?
February 12, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Edward. If you are getting stuck and tending to push from the inside. You need to work on zeroing out your plane more. Take a look at the Trace the Plane Line Video in the Advanced Downswing Section.
February 12, 2015
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Chris
Hey, do you guys still have the training sheets on the website, to master each section? I found these so helpful!!!!! Thanks Chris
February 11, 2015
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Chris -- We are in the process of getting the practice sheets moved over from the old site to the new site. The will be available under the swing review tab and my program when we get them transferred. I hope to have those over by the end of the weekend.
February 12, 2015
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Chris
Any news on getting the practice sheets back up? I need to start the downswing...Thanks
February 17, 2015
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Anthony
When I do this I feel 1. the weight shift to the left is from my left hip and then 2. I plant my left heel in the ground and push up. These two moves alone bring my arms and hands down almost in front of my right thigh ( my arms and hands feel like they get a free ride) . Is this the right feeling, doing nothing with the arms and hands until they reach hip high?
February 10, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Anthony. Everything sounds correct, but number (2.). Plane the left heel and push down. You won't start pulling leverage up from the ground until you get closer to impact. Just a little pull from the lead arm and the majority gravity will help the arms reach the trail thigh. Looks like you are on the right path.
February 10, 2015
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alan
Could you comment on ways to stop hitting the driver on or near the heel. Thank you
February 9, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Alan. It could be a few culprits. I would recommend you upload a swing to one of our instructors for review. In the meantime, you could be coming from the inside too much. Take a look at the Trace the Plane Line Video in the Advanced Downswing Section to get it in the center again.
February 10, 2015
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Nacho
Hi there, in my transition (once i reached the top of the swing) i see that my first move is pulling the right arm down instead of allowing it to stay passive while i'm sitting into the left side. This changes the swing plane somewhat making it a little bit more flat. Would u be kind enough to let me know how i can fix this? Thank u!
February 6, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Ignacio. Take a look at the LADD Video in the Downswing Section. It will train you to work the lead arm correctly from the top.
February 6, 2015
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Alan
Can you think of rotating the lead hip by pulling it around the spine in much the same way as the shoulder blade is pulled around the spine on the back swing?
February 4, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Alan. I see where your thinking is on the lead hip rotation. However, I would rather you think of it as pulling the lead oblique away from the target to open the hips down into impact. Take a look at the Weight Shift Video Part 3 in the Weight Shift Section and the How the Lower Body Works in the Downswing Section. Some more insight on what you should be feeling and thinking regarding the lead hip rotation.
February 5, 2015
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Lee
February 18, 2015
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John
When you shift your weight laterally what body part or muscle are you using to shift your weight? And are you pulling the arms down at the same time you're shifting? 1) shift/pull arms down 2)turn left oblique 3)release Is that the order or am I missing something? Thanks,
January 30, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello John. You first will pull the weight over to the lead side with lead hip adduction. Plant the lead ankle. Pull from the lead oblique to rotate the hips. And, add some pull from the lead lat to get the arms back down in front. Take a look at How the Lower Body Works and the 5 Minutes to the Perfect Downswing in the Downswing Section. Also, the Re-Shaping Your Swing for Lag in the Introduction Section will help you with the blend of pull/gravity of the arms on the downswing.
January 31, 2015
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Nguyen
Hi Does the right elbow touch the rib cage in the setup, downswing or anytime during the swing? I am confused as some golf teacher ask to setup with the right elbow touch the rib cage in the setup and downswing, but Chuck doesn't look like doing that in the video. Regards
January 23, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Nguyen. The right elbow (for right handed player) will glide in front of the body on the downswing. Possibly grazing the rib cage. But, the elbow shouldn't be glued to the rib cage at setup or any other portion of the swing.
January 23, 2015
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David
Hi guys I'm wondering are you meant to hold your lag angle during the down swing or will it just happen naturally ?
January 15, 2015
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
David, Actually, you should be increasing your lag at the beginning of the downswing, with the assistance of the downcock pump drill. Also, you shouldn't feel like you're trying to hold on to your angle because that will cause issues with either losing lag too early (too tense, resulting in uncocked wrists) or never releasing it (getting lag is no good if you never release it). If you produce the body movements properly, then you won't have to worry about how much lag you have because it will be produced, maintained and released as a result of your efforts. R.J.
January 16, 2015
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Nick
RST instructor, I have a question on the start of the downswing. I have watched the down swing video many times. My questions is to start the downswing do you use just you left hip/left leg, or do you use both legs to squot.? How hard should you squot? I like the swing. This swing is easier to do a lot less body movement. P.S. I am recieving the rotatary swing aid today. At the top of my swing my right elbow moves a couple inches out of the proper place. It not a wing out problem, just slightly out. Nick
December 22, 2014
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
Nick, You should feel like you're only using the left glute to squat into your left side. You are using both legs, but it will feel front side dominant because we're shifting our weight onto the left/lead leg. As long as you don't start to your weight out on the balls of your feet and you keep it back in your glutes while maintaining the proper angles, theoretically, you could squat as much as you wanted to. Though, this is overdone by most new RST learners. It's not necessary to get a ton of squat, just an inch to a few inches will suffice. We have plenty of good videos in both downswing sections about squatting or sitting into the left side that can answer all of your questions. R.J.
December 23, 2014
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David
Hey guys thanks for the response to my questions I was wondering how the video lessons work?
December 19, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
No problem David. We are here to help. Just use the Swing Reviews Tab at the top of this page. Upload a Down the Line and Face On Clip no longer than 30 seconds of your swing. On the range, at home, or even in the office. We will do all the rest from there. Take a look at Proper Camera Setup in the Advanced Introduction Section for more details on viewing angles.
December 19, 2014
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David
Hi guys I am a little confused at this clip should I be focusing on just shifting my weight to the lead leg or rotating my hips ?
December 15, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello David. Most players tend to over do rotating their hips on the downswing. You need to focus on shifting your weight first. Take a look at the Sitting Into the Left Side Video in the Downswing Section for more info.
December 15, 2014
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Jason
I've always struggled with loss of tush line and spine angle. One thing I was noticing the other day, in attempt to maintain my posture I found myself driving weight into my front heel in order to counterbalance the weight of my upper body staying more over the ball through impact. I know you guys talk about really getting the weight there in transition, I guess I just never felt it in that way. Does this sound correct?
December 15, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Jason. You need to transfer the weight first in the downswing. Crucial for proper sequencing. Take a look at the "stomp drill" in the How the Lower Body Works Video in the Downswing Section. Sounds like its just what you need.
December 15, 2014
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David
Craig Thanks for the reply will do I'm hoping it's possible to increase my club head speed being 32 6/4 long arms I fell I should be getting more speed can't wait to start my journey here
December 12, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Great David! We are always here to help. Let us know if you have any questions.
December 12, 2014
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David
Hi guys just joined the site today very impressed I have tried many different swing types and have not been able to find one that can give me consistency I'm a 16 h/cap wanting to get down to low teens possibly 10 I'm hoping with ur system I can reach this goal And also looking to increase club head speed I'm currently around 100-105 with my driver and hoping I can reach 110-115 This clip hits home for me i have always tried to turn my hips very fast to start and power my down swing but never seemed to work can't wait to try this way
December 11, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello David. Welcome to the site. We look forward to helping you with your swing and increasing your consistency. Take a look at the How to Maintain Club Head Speed as You Get Older in the Advanced Introduction Section to learn how just using rotation alone can inhibit your speed journey.
December 12, 2014
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Gautam
What muscle is used to pull for weight shift? The video say pull from left side but does not clearly say which part while it clearly says pull with left oblique after weight shift. Thx
November 21, 2014
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
Gautam, Primarily the groin will pull the hips laterally. So to move left, pull with the left going to class yourself over. There are smaller muscles that play their roll, but the groin is felt the most. The glutes play their role as well. The lats and the obliques turn the hips and the torso R.J.
November 21, 2014
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Tom
In the down the line view, when the club is in front of you and parallel to the ground on the downswing, where should the club be relative to your toe line? Directly above the ends of your shoes, more towards the ball/target line, or?? And, is this position constant for the wedge through driver? Thank you, Tom
November 21, 2014
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
Tom, When your club is parallel to the ground it should also be parallel to the target line, which should be parallel to the toe line as well, which was the term that you coined in your question. Your hands should be in front of your sternum and your arms should be hanging below your shoulders at address, this would determine how far your hands are from your body when you rotate back as well. However, you'll be hinged from the hips further for shorter clubs which will cause your arms to naturally hang below your shoulders further away from the body even though the ball is closer to you (because the club is shorter). If you pull your hands in closer to the body for a wedge to match how close your hands would be to the body for a driver, then your wedge will be off plane and too flat of a swing. To swing on a steeper plane in order to maintain the elbow plane line, the hand would naturally be further from the body with a shorter club and continuing to raise more vertically, than would a driver. I hope this makes sense. I'm not quite sure if I explained what I was thinking very well. Let me know if you need any further explanation. R.J.
November 21, 2014
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Nick
I asked or commented on confusion of shifting weight on the 9-3 drill into squot. this is your response. thank you. Yes, you do this for both the 9-3 and full swings. The 9-3 swing is just a bisection of the bottom half of the full swing. And yes, the move to the left starts the downswing transition and the squat comes immediately after. Now I watched the throw ball drill. that shifting of weight is instructed different. My understanding in the drill is to move the left hip not use your left leg to start down swing in the drill. And just to be clear. In the down swing you want to use your left leg to pull the weight into your left glut. You weren't as confused as you thought! Good luck R.J.
November 6, 2014
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
Nick, On the RST website, we have plenty of drills that are taught different ways in order to produce the same results and we do that by using exaggerations. The throw the ball drill is for people who previously were under using their bodies. People are usually a lot more accustomed to throwing a ball than they are to properly sequencing the downswing of a golf swing so, related the lower body movement of golf swing to throwing a ball allows people who weren't properly rotating the body to do so. On the other hand, the squat to square video is for people who were rotating too much with their hips in the downswing and need to learn how to properly decelerate their hips in order to move power up the chain instead of throwing that power away out in front of them. So they seem like they are teaching different things when in reality they are trying to get two different types of people with different problems to come together in the middle . Sequencing the lower body for the downswing 1. Pull weight to left side with the muscles in the left leg and hip as the hands are getting to the top of the backswing. So, yes, shift to the left just before the backswing is finished. There is a brief moment where the backswing and downswing are happening at the same time. 2. Hips rotate square by being pulled with the left oblique, lat and glute. Left hip should be over top of the left knee and left ankle. The left knee should still be flexed, hence the squat to square. Weight on the right foot should be rolled inward but with the heel still on the ground. 3. Hips rotate open about 35-45 degrees with the left hip joint moving back behind the body but still centered over the left knee and ankle from the face on view. It is crucial that the right hip doesn't hinge outwards towards the ball, this will make you lose your spine angle. Your right hip socket should be following a path that's parallel to the target line as the left hip is being turned back away from the ball. After the left hip opens up back behind the body, the left leg extends to stall the hips and transfer power from the ground up the trunk of the body. This may all seem complicated, but if you watch the Sang Moon Bae Hips for Lag video, you'll see it all come into play in slow motion. R.J.
November 6, 2014
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Jason
I tend to get the upper body going forward and experience a fairly upright spine at impact, often resulting in a pull of some sort. I've heard Chuck warn about too much secondary access tilt, but I was wondering when we sit into the left side to start, should the head and shoulders stay put increasing the tilt some? I ask only bc when I sit into the left side I found myself falling forward/back and I think it is because I don't keep the spine back. Any videos you can recommend are appreciated.
November 4, 2014
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
Jason, I recommend watching the following videos: Sang Moon Bae Hips for Lag Merry Go Round drill Losing the Tush Line You can use the search bar under any video playlist to find any video on the site R.J.
November 4, 2014
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Paul
Could you briefly discuss the position of the head at impact and directly after impact? I can't seem to find a video that talks about it much, but I've noticed that I hit significantly better, straighter shots if I focus on keeping my eye on the ball through impact. In other words, I hit better shots when I have the feeling that I'm not looking to see where the ball goes and instead have the feeling that I'm staring at the ground for much longer post impact.
October 31, 2014
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
The momentum of the club pulls your head up. Any benefit to lifting your head prior to that in which you perceive is strictly psychological and will cause inconsistency in your swing. You feel like you are making better contact because you're used to it, but if what you were used to was the right way to swing, you wouldn't be seeking golf instruction. I know that seems harsh but that is the reality that we all face. Puling up your head too soon will cause you to stand up out of your spine angle, which will cause your chest to force your arms to chicken wing, the weight of your body to be centered over the balls of your feet. It's not possible to be consistent this way. Stick to the program and I promise that you will start to improve. R.J.
October 31, 2014
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Paul
I think you misread my comment. I was arguing for the opposite of lifting your head and asking what position the head/chest should be at impact.
November 1, 2014
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
You're right. I completely misread that. My apologies. I've been reading a lot today and my eyes were rather tired when I read your original message. Normally, I don't make those types of errors, but anyway, to more pertinent topics. Check out the impact alignment videos. There are two of them. Impact Alignment Face On and Impact Alignment Down the Line. When you're at impact, your hips should be open 35-45 degrees, your chest should be parallel to the target line and your shoulder line should be parallel to the ground. Your head, more importantly the vertebrae in your neck will still be in line with the rest of your spine, you don't want to ever change that, however, your head will be turned slightly towards the back shoulder so that you can still keep both eyes on the ball. I hope that better assists you and once again, I apologize for the misunderstanding, R.J.
November 1, 2014
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Paul
I spent a lot of time on this section, watched the vids over and over and noticed a massive change in my ball contact and ball flight. I feel like I'm compressing the ball, which feels great. The resulting ball flight is much higher than normal. I normally hit my 6 iron about 165 to 170 and that didn't change much, BUT the ball goes way higher. Is that normal or am I possibly doing something wrong. I guess the real question is what is the proper ball flight??
October 27, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Paul. You want a trajectory that allows you to control the ball in all conditions. My suggestion would be take a look at the Knuckles Down Drill in the Advanced Downswing Section. Learn how to de-loft and control the launch. This will give you the ability to use whatever ball flight you would like. High or Low.
October 27, 2014
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Nick
I hit some balls at the range. I had difficulty of when to start the squot move and doing it correctly.
October 24, 2014
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
Nick, What type of difficulties were you having? Also, hitting balls at the range isn't the best way to learn how to do something. You need to train your brain to move that way before you try to fully implement it into your swing. Watch the 5 part video in the Full Swing Program Introduction "Truths of instruction" Correct me if I'm wrong here, but it feels like you jumped right into certain sections of the program of where you thought you were having problems, instead of rebuilding your swing from the start to the finish. The introduction videos aren't just fluff, it's crucial information to the program. I think that if you honestly believe in the RST program and do it from the beginning. You won't be having issues anymore. R.J.
October 24, 2014
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Nick
I have a good understanding of the golf swing. Only issue is the start of the down swing. I know that you say to squot down to start. I also tried to push off the ground with my right foot. I end up in the same follow through stance with both ways. I also find it easier to push off with my right foot. I can feel all the power built up and through the swing. I am balanced the same way on either down swing start.
October 23, 2014
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
Nick, If you push from the right side, you won't be able to be a consistent golfer. You might appear to be getting into the proper positions, but when you push from the right foot, you won't get your hips turned around behind you enough and you will be too far forward with your weight. Eventually, it will cause you hip pain. Also, we find that most things in the golf swing that "feel powerful" actually rob us of club head speed and put the club head in undesirable positions at impact. The lower body is meant to support the upper body from the hips up as we rotate. The lower body isn't meant to generate club head speed. It's not efficient in doing so. Also, pushing with the right leg in the downswing will tend to force your torso to lean back away from the ball. This will create chunk shots as the bottom of the swing arc has moved back behind the ball. If you pull with the left side, it isn't possible to go past neutral joint alignment. So, it makes no sense to put yourself in a position where that would be a possibility, especially for a maneuver that has no benefits when producing a good golf swing. Keep working hard on your drills and you'll be able to create more than enough club head speed to suit your needs. The program works and it is the proper way to swing a golf club. Any deviations from the program will require compensations in order to succeed. So, why work harder than you need to when it won't accomplish as much as if you didn't work as hard? R.J.
October 23, 2014
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Nick
how do you start the down swing? Do you squot to the left?
October 22, 2014
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
Nick, Yes, you sit into your left glute which in affect moves your weight over your left ankle joint and squares your hips. R.J.
October 22, 2014
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Gary
enjoyed the video clip sent to members of Sang Moon Bae. I tried to copy the swing, keeping me body and arms quiet while moving my lower body and do you know what ? I made some excellent shots and my game improved so much in regard to how I have been playing. what are the videos in our library that will endorse Sang's swing?
October 20, 2014
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
Gary, Every and all downswing videos. Just remember that it's the left obliques and lats that pull the core around and the left hip adductors that pulls the hips back over the left ankle to start it. Remembering those things will make all of the downswing videos easier. R.J.
October 20, 2014
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Lee
I am not sure if this is where to ask this but I was wondering, if you want to hit the ball harder and step on one, what do you do? How do you do that? Do you spped up the squat or what do you speed up and when?
October 11, 2014
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
Lee, The only club that we would ever want to ramp up on would be our driver. And hitting the driver further is all about making a setup change so that we can catch the ball with an ascending blow. Check out the "Bomb your driver" series in the bonus section. As for other clubs, attempting to swing harder, often time results in a loss of power. If you move the lower body faster, everything in the rest of the swing also has to move faster or you'll get stuck and hit a block or snap hook. Each club, aside from the driver, has a set distance that it goes when you really hit it cleanly. It's best to know your distances and play within yourself because most of the time trying to kill it, kills your results. Once you get good at the RST swing model, your natural swing will already be at the top of your ability to really crush the ball. The only thing that will change your distance at that point is how solidly you strike the ball. I hope that this helps Rusty
October 11, 2014
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david
how do I stop pushing off my right side to start the downswing?
October 11, 2014
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
David, checkout the squat to square video. If you activate the glutes and use the muscles in your left hip to claw your way back over to the left, you won't be able to push off with your right leg. Also, focus on keeping your right heel on the ground until after contact. Only allow your ankle to roll inward so that the outside edge of your rolls off the ground. Your heel will be pulled off the ground in the follow through. Feel your left obliques, your left hip flexors and your left glute in the downswing and you can't go wrong. R.J.
October 11, 2014
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joseph
am I doing something wrong posting comments ... I have posted twice but don't see them. Anyone out there know how to make a swing video and send it in for review/analysis> Thanks.
October 10, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Joseph. I have responded both times to your camera question. I am sorry you aren't receiving them. Please Contact Customer Support. They will be happy to get the issue resolved.
October 10, 2014
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Robert
Craig, when I start my downswing, my left knee tends to be outside of my hip/foot line. Is this OK? What would a fix be if it is not? I tend to pull/hook the ball on misses.
October 7, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Robert. It sounds like you might not be planting correct and pulling yourself to the left. The knee will rotate some, but you don't want to push it outside NJA. Try the "stomp drill" in the Downswing Section. Get the heel planted and fire the glute. Pull yourself over, no push.
October 7, 2014
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Martin
Is the below accurate for the weight shift to the left? 1) Left heel plants to begin the shift, activates left glute which plants yet more weight to the left 2) Inside left thigh then pulls weight over from the right (or does the left glute pull?) 3) Obliques continue to pull by now pulling the hips and rotating through the swing Is this accurate?
October 3, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Martin. Yes. Left heel plant and activate left glute. Left hip abduction helps pull the weight over and the obliques start to pull the hips.
October 3, 2014
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Martin
no left thigh pulling left?
October 4, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
The thigh will be stabilizing some, but no need for much thigh pull.
October 5, 2014
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jeff
Hi, Just trying to find the video re weight shift down swing. I'm trying to work out if the weight should be pulled onto the ball of the leading foot, then onto the heel as you pivot around your left hip.Or should it go straight onto the heel. Thanks Jeff.
September 30, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jeff. You can use the Weight Shift Video Part 3 (Weight Shift Section), Sitting Into the Left Side (Downswing Section), and 5 Mins to the Perfect Downswing (Downswing Section) Video. All will help you with a proper shift. Lead Heel, Lead Glute.
September 30, 2014
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Joseph
Are you suppose to feel your weight shift back and left or just shift to the left in general?
September 27, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Joseph. You should try to feel the weight shift into the lead glute and heel. It will tend to feel more lateral, then left as the body pulls away.
September 27, 2014
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Matt
Is there a specific video that addresses sliding past NJA in the downswing? My FO video shows my whole body moving excessively towards target in the downswing. Thanks a lot
September 26, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Matt. It you are sliding past NJA too much, you are adding push. Use the Impact Alignments FO, Sitting Into the Left Side, and Ladd Video in the Downswing Section. Also, the Losing the Tush Line Video and Level Shoulder Video in the Advanced Downswing Section. These will be geared towards good weight transfer, lead arm control, and stacking at impact.
September 27, 2014
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Gary
thanks Craig but I cant find the 'stomp drill' , is it called by another name ?
September 19, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Gary. "Stride" or "Stomp" Drill. It's in the How the Lower Body Works Video in this Section.
September 20, 2014
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Gary
re my last comment , do the knee's / legs have any sideways movement in conjunction with the hips?
September 18, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Allow the legs and knees to move naturally. Don't try to drive the trail knee/leg towards the ball. Allow the pull from the lead side to bring the through. They will follow the body motion.
September 18, 2014
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Gary
this is a tough move. got it wrong yesterday and sliced n pushed all day. I am trying to avoid spinning hips so I didn't move my hips at all I don't think. would u say the first move is more lateral than a turn of the hips?
September 18, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Gary. It will tend to feel a little more lateral. But, you will shift and then pull the body away form the target. Try the "Stomp Drill" in the How the Lower Body Works Video in the Downswing Section to help with the intended motion.
September 18, 2014
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Paul
I am only seeing one video to watch on The Follow Through. That can not be right I do not think. Am I missing some of the videos for The Follow Through? I hope I am. I need to study what position to swing to be in at the finish of my swing. "Swing to the picture"......you know. Program the mind stuff. I know you guys have more than one video for the finish of the swing. Can you please advise?
September 14, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Paul. We actually do not have a lot of videos on the follow through. It is a position that occurs very naturally by making the proper swinging motion. If you engage the proper muscles and release the club correctly in the shot. The follow through will be correct.
September 14, 2014
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WILLIAM
What muscles are involved in shifting the weight to the left heel? I seems to me that if you move your weight to the inside of your right heel on the backswing, there must be at least some push to get over to the left heel as you begin the downswing.
September 14, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello William. Unless you don't rotate your hips enough there will not be any push from the trail side. You will be pulling yourself over to the lead side by settling the weight into the lead glute and using lead hip abduction.
September 14, 2014
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PU
I follow the instruction step by step! But I found it is very difficult for me to figure out my sequence of downswing is correct or not. And I always release early and very hard to squat at first clearly. I think, in my case, the squat and release happens together! How can I make sure I squat firstly and then release?
September 7, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello PU. It takes time to get the new movement patterns in. You need to practice at pace. Work through the progressions very slowly. Practice the weight shift. Get comfortable with that. Then add a little lag and work on the release. Practice small shots and work up to larger ones blending it all together.
September 7, 2014
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Niall
Super video and brilliant website! Just one point of confusion- if the downswing begins from the ground up (ie weight shift into glutes and pull from left obliques and then left traps) how do you pull the arms down during the weight transfer as discussed in the downcock drill? is it therefore that the order of movements in the downswing is weight shift into glutes while simultaneously pulling the arms down in the downcock with the right and left trap and then pulling with the left obliques?
September 5, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Niall. The weight shift to the left is momentum change. With supple wrist, this momentum change adds more angle to the downswing. While transferring the weight gravity and the pull from the left will start to bring the club down. Shift weight, pull from oblique and pull from the left lat to get arms swinging in front of chest.
September 5, 2014
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Erich
what is the video where they were talking about the right shoulder being higher than the left going into impact?
September 3, 2014
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WILLIAM
The second half of "Key to Creating Lag" (Full Swing Advanced - Downswing) talks about keeping the shoulders shut and the left shoulder lower than the right as you swing down.
September 14, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Erich. You are needing to get the right shoulder higher? or doing that? If you are over using the right shoulder. Take a look at the Stop Coming Over the Top Video in this section and the Sledgehammer Video in the Advanced Downswing Section to get it under control.
September 3, 2014
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Peter
sounds simple and straight forward - but for me it seem hard to do - i will work on this move tomorrow
September 1, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Great. Simple and straight will be the new ball flight too!
September 1, 2014
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Dennis
I seem to be able to shift and follow through with irons. However,I hesitate and don't feel right doing this with the driver.I end up going over the top.What's different between the irons and driver,and is there a video explaining the difference?
August 20, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Dennis. The driver is a specialty club compared to the irons. However, the swings should stay the same. The biggest change is length of club. When players get a driver in their hands. Because the head is so far away. It is easy to swing more with the arms and steepen the shaft plane with the trail side. You have to feel more exaggerated and really wait on the driver. Its easy top spin because the weight of the head is far away and the feeling is you have to get it back in front versus waiting even longer.
August 20, 2014
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Sonny
When does the left leg straighten out on downswing or impact?
August 14, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Sonny. The left leg will straighten coming into impact. Take a look at the Straight Left Leg at Impact Video in the Advanced Downswing Section. Chris will give you a good drill to master.
August 14, 2014
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brandon
I purchased the rotary connect and it broke after two days. Is there any warranty on the product?
August 12, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Brandon. I'm sorry to hear about your RC issues. Please use the Contact Us link at the bottom of this page and notify Customer Support. They will help you.
August 12, 2014
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don
Hey Chuck I cannot stop pulling the ball.... is this video good for that, and are there any other videos you suggest ? driver is my biggest problem but irons as well, its almost every shot ?? Thanks
August 10, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Yes, this is a good video for that. The pull is probably a plane and release issue. Take a look at the Stop Coming Over the Top Video in the Downswing Section to get on plane. Then learn how to get the lead hand squared up at impact properly with the 5 Mins to the Perfect Release. Same section.
August 10, 2014
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Jeff
When shifting the weight to the left side, I understand that the upper torso stays completely out of the move and the back stays to the target. It appears that in the instructional videos, which I've viewed and looking at the pro swings, the torso (right side) does move somewhat (as the hips get back to square and the hand/arms drop) from the position it (right shoulder) was in at the top of the backswing. When working on this move (shifting the weight to left) will the upper torso naturally move in this manner as I've described? I just want to make sure that before I start the repetitions to ingrain this that I am starting off right.
August 2, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Jeff. The upper torso will naturally move as you start shifting into the left side. Most people are too active too soon with their upper body rotation. Active with the upper body early tends to steepen the plane. The feeling you want to have is that the trail side is passive. Pulling from the lead hip and oblique will start to open the hips and help get the rotation started. As the left lat will start to pull the arms in front of the body.
August 2, 2014
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George
Is there a video/drill for keeping your head behind the ball in the downswing? When I hit balls, I feel like when I shift my weight forward, the whole upper body goes with it and my head is almost even with my left side. Thanks!
July 31, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Use the Impact Alignments Face On Video in the Downswing Section. Work slowly into the correct impact. You should be able to maintain a steady head.
July 31, 2014
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yuji
It has been a bit more than two months practicing the downswing technique but I am struggling still. When I see my swing my left knee and hip go beyond the neutral point toward the target despite I think I shift my weight on the left heel. Any chance you can review my swing just uploaded? I am so close to taking a private lesson again.
July 17, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Yuji. We would be glad to take a look at your swing. Consider this before you get your review back. If you push from the right hip. The lower body slides forward and the upper body falls back. Check your shoulder levelness and secondary axis tilt. Take a look at the Level Shoulders Drill in the Downswing Advanced Section.
July 17, 2014
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George
Is it correct to think of the downswing as the opposite of the takeaway/backswing (in general, simplistic terms, obviously there are differences)? From what I have learned of the RST, during the first 2 parts of the swing, the body/torso rotates, and the shoulders/arms elevate, so during the downswing the arms/shoulders move straight down while the body rotates through the ball. I think that for me, thinking of the arms moving straight down is a better thought than pulling with the left side, but they accomplish the same result. Thanks for all the great info!
July 16, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Patterson. I see where you are going with your thinking. Just make sure that you understand the pull from the left (hip, oblique, lat) will aid in getting the arms working in front of the body to release the club properly. While the right side stays passive and doesn't push through the ball.
July 17, 2014
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George
Yes, the hands moving down is more of a trigger feeling. My tendency was that when I pulled with my left in the transition, the shoulders would open up immediately and the club would get way behind me and I would have to stop turning to let them catch up and I'd flip release the club. Once my hands "drop" I like to feel my left hip moving behind me and up, as discussed in the Jason Day swing analysis video on the site. I feel like that keeps my hands in front of me and allows me to maintain my spine angle from the top of the backswing into contact
July 17, 2014
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Jim
is it possible to move to my left side too forcefully provided I keep my left side in joint alignment?
July 16, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Yes, it is possible. Nothing should be forced in the golf swing. Its just a subtle 3 inch shift, into a squat. Don't try to rip yourself into position from the left side. Its a pull.
July 16, 2014
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Jim
Thanks Craig. I am so impressed how quickly you guys respond to questions. Very happy with RST.
July 17, 2014
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Scott
Pat, Thanks fo previous response. One last thing where should my back (left) shoulder be at impact. I know in my video it is way underneath. Should it feel like,it is coming around and squaring up at impact ?
July 15, 2014
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Patrick (Certified RST Instructor)
Because we are trying to pull instead of push on the downswing. I want you to focus on feeling your RIGHT shoulder moving down. This video is excellent or this question: http://www.rotaryswing.com/videos/full-swing-advanced/downswing/level-shoulders-at-impact
July 16, 2014
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Anthony
This may be a stupid question and maybe it is more suited for the "throw the ball" drill. What is the Rotary Swing stance on watching the ball or even a portion of the ball until or after impact. I have heard various "experts" emphasize or De-emphasize this over the years. I got into the habit years ago of rotating so hard and fast that I almost never see impact, but still manage to hit the ball OK when I play a good bit. I guess I just want to make sure I am focusing where I should to give myself the best shot at a good shot and didn't know the Rotary Swing stance on this. Thanks.
July 13, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Anthony. No question is a stupid question. We don't have a particular stance on making sure all we focus on is ball or not. However, where the eyes go the head goes. Making sure that you release properly and let momentum carry you to the follow through will ensure the head stays down long enough (eyes on ball) to maintain spine angle and maximize potential for a great strike.
July 13, 2014
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kazuhiko
Dear Chuck, I have been practicing the downswing movement for about 3 months. Because I am in my late sixties, I am not very flexible. I am doing everything you are instructing. However, in my case, the easiest way to start the downswing is to consciously hold the shoulder turn at the top of the swing, keep the back of my shoulders facing toward the target and while trying the keep the shoulders there and pull my left hip 45degrees to the left or bump my hip 45degrees. I have a feeling like there is a slight pause at the top. Also, as I am doing this I try not to dip my right shoulder too much as when this happens I loose my spine angle. When I do the above, I feel like my right forearms /hands unconsciously snap toward the ball and forward in my follow-through. At this tmoment, I am not trying to use my right forearm and hands. I automatically finish on my left side and keep a finish position most of the time. Could you please comment if I am doing this right? Thank you for you help. Aloha, Kazuhiko
July 12, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Kazuhiko. Getting the weight transfer to the left is the most important part to the downswing. It sets everything else into motion. For training purposes. It is ok to feel the shoulders staying a little shut in the transition. Nevertheless, make sure you transfer the weight to the left and then feel the torso start to pull the shoulders open. Don't rotate then shift to start the sequence down. The right arm motion sounds like its on the right track. Allowing the snap. Not too much control of the snap.
July 12, 2014
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David
I've noticed that Chuck seems to be looking at a point 6-12" behind the ball during his swing. This very apparent in the videos in the self-analysis section (for Tiger too), and is based on where his nose is pointing (I assume his eyes are actually looking at the ball). My question is why? What does this help with, and is it an important component of the swing? Thank you.
July 8, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Chuck is just keeping the head steady. Making sure not to pick up the head too soon. If you start looking towards the intended target early. It can lead to not maximizing the release. Where the eyes go, the head will follow. Staying down until momentum pulls him around to the follow through.
July 8, 2014
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David
It does seem to have a helpful effect. I've been having trouble keeping my head still at the top of the backswing, and when I try looking at a point a bit behind the ball it makes it a lot easier. With my chin farther back, there is more room for my shoulder to turn to 90 degrees before my neck starts limiting the turn (or my head starts moving). It just feels a little weird looking a bit sideways at the ball.
July 9, 2014
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Frank
I get the best feeling of lag creation if I begin the sitting or squat while I am in the last moment of the backswing just before I actually begin the downswing. Is this a premature start to the downswing that will create other problems?
July 8, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Frank. As long as you are transferring the weight properly to the left. All is ok. Momentum change aids in the creation of lag.
July 8, 2014
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Mark
Is it proper to transition from the backswing to the downswing by loading the weight on the right instep during the backswing and slightly move the left hip at the top of the backswing so that the majority of your weight is on the left heel at the very start of the downswing.
July 7, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Mark. You will load the weight on the right glute keeping the weight towards the instep of the foot. At the completion of the backswing (or a fraction sooner) the weight will start to load into the left glute/left heel in the transition.
July 7, 2014
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David
When is the correct time to post up on the left leg and begin pulling with the left obliques?
July 4, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey David. From the top of the downswing. You will begin to settle into the left glute and start to pull from the left obliques. Take a look at the Weight Shift Part 3 Video in the Weight Shift Section.
July 4, 2014
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Jon
Yes uploaded 4 reviews, really frustrated with golf atm and have come to the point where I'm considering whether I want to continue to play! I never thought it would get to that but I'm constantly told how much potential i have but I'm not getting anywhere near it and I continue to keep going up 0.1 (20 in my last 28 starts). I really thought the RST programme would help me but I'm starting to have doubts, please help because I really don't want to quit this game but I'm simply fed up with playing poorly and not even having the ability to get off the tee :( :(
June 28, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Jon. I would like to personally take look at your swing. I want you to feel that we are the best option to improve your game. Send me an email when you upload your next review and I will flag it in the system for me to diagnose. Thanks you for your continued patience. I want you to keep playing this great game. Craig@rotaryswing.com.
June 29, 2014
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Jon
I sent an email but my swing was reviewed before your response
July 8, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Jon. I didn't receive an email. I apologize that I wasn't able to flag it in the system. Were you comfortable with the information provided in the review?
July 8, 2014
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Jon
Not particularly to be honest. I was given feedback on my takeaway which personally I think is ok and not the cause of my problems and that other parts of my swing need greater attention. I'm just not sure this website is for me as much as i thought it would, i feel lessons with a coach is better as a 30 second review does not show a persons swing problems to a true extent- would i be fair in saying that?
July 12, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Jon. I just emailed you.
July 13, 2014
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Jon
Bit annoyed with RST to be honest as my handicap has gone up (was 9 now a 10 handicap) after being a member for 2 months! I have no consistency and am slicing my driver worse than ever! Will give this website one more month...
June 28, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jon. I am sorry to hear your frustration and issues with your swing. Have you tried uploading one of your swings to our online review system? I'm sure myself or one of the other instructors can help spot the flaw thats hurting you with the driver. Some of the changes take time to implement. I believe we have the tools to help you and want you to be completely satisfied with your game.
June 28, 2014
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dean
On the SECOND part of this move, shifting first, then PULLING second, as you are pulling with the left oblique, is this where the left leg straightens at impact and pushes off the ground from the heal, engaging the right glute? It seems as though this straightening of the left leg would more enable the club to clear the ground. I think I get it but I just want to make sure that that is a key component--you didn't mention the straightening of the left leg at impact. I am totally satisfied with your teaching of RST--excellent!
June 25, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Dean. The left leg straightens during the release into impact. The right glute should already be engaged. When you settle on the left and start to squat, the right glute will be engaged. It's more than for the club to clear the ground, its an added speed benefit.
June 25, 2014
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david
Ok so I make the wt. shift and then the Charles Barkley syndrome is activated; a stall, the engine restarts and a last minute throw of the arms at the ball. I have just begun this drill ( to the back swing is good) and can not get a feel even at slow motion.
June 19, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey David. Take a look at the Re-Shaping your Swing for Lag Video in the Introduction Section. Work on training the arms how to work smoothly with the body and learn the overall shape of the downswing. It will help the stalling out.
June 20, 2014
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Freddy
Noticed that when then the hips initiate and fire (vs shift/squat) , the club path can be pushed out very easily. At the 1:00 mark…. an "Aha" moment for me. Early and excess hip rotation, coming over the top (my biggest challenge) , holding on tightly and trying to redirect swing path. Ugly at times, and it's pretty grooved. Any idea how long it might take to rebuild ?
June 19, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Fred. There are a lot of videos in the Introduction Section that cover how the brain learns a new motor pattern and the time to master it. With diligent practice it can be attained. Your goal should be to complete at least 100 perfect repetitions a day. With or without the golf ball. Once you break the hundred barrier. The process of myelination takes place and starts to insulate pathways in your brain to hardwire the new move. It takes much more to master. But, to plant the seed of change to make permanent. That is the protocol.
June 19, 2014
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Gareth
Hi, these downswing videos are fantastic. As I start to practice these movements on the range and slowly seeing the effects on course, I do have some questions. 1. Hit lots of solid pushed shots and some fat weak draws, feels that I'm keeping the shoulders closed too long on initial downswing. Is it possible to keep the shoulder closed too long? 2. In the left hand release drill: a. Is it okay to let the left wrist hinge release a little while keeping the back of wrist flat? b. I feel tension/cramp in my left under arm muscle (latissmus dorsi?) is this normal. c. At which point can I bend my left elbow? The pros seem to keep both arm fairly straight to way above their heads. Thanks, Gareth
June 16, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
1. Yes, it is possible too keep the shoulders closed to long. However, the vast majority of golfers tend to do the opposite. Just make sure the shoulders don't actively rotate too hard from the top. Let them be pulled around. 2A - The left wrist will start to unhinge (ulnar deviation), that is ok. 2B - Tension will be felt in the Left Lat because it aids in pulling the arms back in front of the torso. 2C - The left arm will remain fairly straight through the follow through. As you start the finish position. The left arm will bend.
June 17, 2014
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Trevor
Please tell me the main differences between your swing teaching and the other more traditional kinds of swing teaching taught in the past? What are the most important things that are different with your methods of swing teaching? I am deciding weather to keep paying this program or move on to another one. I had a coach 12 years ago who was very knowledgeable of the swing and had played on tour in the pasty. He taught mostly the Hogan kind of swing and the Hogan type of teaching. It helped me understand the swing mechanics very well. Now I am older "age 65" and starting over after a ten year layoff. So I want to get the best up to date methods for going forward. Where it will let someone my age be able to learn a swing that will not put as much pressure on my back and body, if possible. I do not discount what Hogan taught he was the master, I just want the most up to date methods to help me now...Thank you
June 16, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Our method is exclusively from an anatomic or scientific perspective. It's designed how the body is supposed to move the club efficiently and safely as possible. How the brain learns new motor patterns versus hitting a thousand balls a day without making any progress. We are not trying to copy any certain player, but how are anatomy is designed to swing the club and how the brain can learn it as quickly as possible. Check out the Videos in the Introduction Section. Especially the Truths of Instruction Series. They will answer pretty much every question you have in regards to our method and whether it is for you. I can assure you that this is the most up to date method of swinging the club correctly.
June 16, 2014
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Trevor
I am starting a golf exercise program both at home and the gym. I will purchase the $129 dollar package you offer for home exercise to use at home and also go to the gym as well. What are the first exercises I should start with to build a golf swing fitness program? Then I will work up to the more advanced things to work on? Now I need a list of the first things to start with. Thank you
June 16, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Trevor. This is a better question for our fitness instructor. Here is the link to his page and contact info. http://www.rotaryswing.com/rst-certification/rst-instructor-bio?in=109154. Or go to the Worldwide Instructor List and Select Anthony Yeung of California.
June 16, 2014
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Trevor
What are the best things I can do to practice at home on my swing. Not just full swings but parts of the swing I can practice at home? Please give me the first most important list of what to work on. I have not played for ten years do to injuries so I am starting over again. Pounding balls at the range is not giving me quality practice. I keep repeating the wrong moves over and over. I know what to do but I cannot get by body to grove the correct moves, it is frustrating. I want a new way to work on things at home before I hit balls. Can you help with this?
June 16, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
The best way to start is with the setup. It can be mastered at home and without pounding range balls. Especially, due to your previous injuries. Make sure the body is setup up to prevent injuries or further stress on your body.
June 16, 2014
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Trevor
watching the web for information about the "two plan swing" vs the "one plane swing" is rotary golf teaching the one plane swing?
June 16, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Trevor, the Rotary Swing is a one plane swing.
June 16, 2014
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David
On the Wide Narrow Wide; is the practice swing also WNW? It sure doesn't look like it.
June 14, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Yes, David.
June 16, 2014
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Jason
I was working on the shift then the left oblique pull and it seems like when I pull with the left I need to be careful and not let the shoulder fly open. Does this sound like a common problem? Is focusing on pulling with the left while trying to keep my shoulder quiet and square through impact a correct thought?
June 11, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Yes, you want to feel the pull with the left which will start to open the shoulders. Feel the upper body being very passive. Not spinning them open too much from the top. You are on the right track.
June 11, 2014
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david
having trouble making a smooth transition from the right side to the L heel when beginning the down swing. Feels like I pause after the weight shift then arms move to release at the ball. (It's not the Charles Barkley syndrome is it ? Ha)
June 9, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
I don't think you have Charles Barkley Syndrome. I don't think it is contagious. Look at the How the Lower Body Works Video in the Downswing section. The stomp drill in that video might be the key to help sequence the shift of fluid movement from the ground up.
June 9, 2014
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Doug
Any drills or thoughts to loosen the arms, wrists. My entire downswing feels like my entire right side ( I'm left handed) is hitting the ball. It feels very effortfull and stuck. No freedom and softness of arms and shoulders. My practice swings feel and look great. When I step over the ball I feel I'm trying to hit a frog with a stick'! Help.
June 6, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Doug. For a left handed golfer, using the right side is what we are looking for on the downswing. The right side will be the pulling side, not the pushing side. Take a look at the Re-Shape Your Swing for Lag Video in the Introduction Section. Training both arms independently and learning the overall shape of the downswing should help you loosen some things up.
June 7, 2014
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jake
Hi Chuck, It seems like when I look at my swing on video I am dipping forward on my downswing. Backswing is sound, due to your website, but it seems like I am leaning forward as I swing down. What would cause this? Thanks for your input. Jake
May 30, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
If you are moving forward on the downswing it is typical of a right side push and/or not keeping the weight in the glutes. If you are moving out towards the toes and using more of a quad action the body will tend to move towards the ball. Make sure you are not spinning too much from the top with the shoulders and hips.
May 31, 2014
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yuji
Shifting the weight to left looks so easy but tough to execute it properly. My question is that as you shift to left, am I supposed to keep my hip square until the impact? It seems like I tend to keep rotating the hip that my hip is open at the impact. Thank you in advance!
May 28, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
At impact the hips will roughly be open 30 to 40 degrees. As you start to shift the hips will start to open slightly. We want them opening due to pulling from the left side, not actively rotating from the right at the start of the downswing.
May 28, 2014
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Anthony
What's the best way to practice swinging on plane. I'm having trouble hooking the ball especially with the driver.
May 21, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hooking the ball could have a couple of culprits. Check out the LADD Video in the Downswing Section To understand how the left arm works down on plane due to gravity and pulling from the left. You can also check out the Trace the plane line video in the Full Swing Advanced Section to understand how not to come under the plane line.
May 21, 2014
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Jeff
My question somehow got submitted before I was finished...My question relates to the upper torso when I: Externally rotate the left leg to bring the left knee over the left ankle and pull the weight over to the left side with left hip adduction thus squaring my hips. Should that move bring my left shoulder somewhat over my left ankle OR should my upper torso /left shoulder stay exactly (more or less) where it was at the top of the backswing? I do understand that my shoulders are to remain passive (back still to the target) and that my left hip/obliques/lat (staying in the box) are going to pull arms/shoulders around in front of the torso. Thanks for your time.
May 16, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Jeff, take a look at the weight shift 3 video in the program weight shift section and see how the upper half moves the lead shoulder after the shift. If that doesn't get you some clarity on this question then let me know and I will help further.
May 16, 2014
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Jeff
My question relates to the upper torso when I: externally rotate the left leg to bring the left knee over the left ankle and pull the weight over to the left side with left hip adduction
May 16, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
See my response above and see if that helps at all.
May 16, 2014
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borja
I am working on the weight shift doing it very slowly. But on having done squat, I feel something of tension in the back of my right leg. In particular it is as at a height of the knee but in the back of the leg. Can it be for lack of flexibility? Thanks
May 7, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
I would strongly suggest that you try and tone back any sort of squat as this is so often overdone. Work on making more of just a shift to the left with some external rotation of the lead hip/leg
May 7, 2014
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David
One thing I've noticed in several of your video's is mentioning muscles by their medical names. In this video you mention left obliques. You might want to point them out as you mention them just so its clear what exact muscles you are talking about.
May 5, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
in the program intro and setup videos we do our best to cover all of the major groups that you will need to be aware of when working into the full swing. We can do a better job in the future videos about point these out as needed.
May 7, 2014
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john
I'm working on the downswing as I suffer a lot from a shoulder-driven downswing and OTT. The idea of moving/squatting to the left side and then turning the left oblique feels very different for me, which is good news as I need to do something different! I have two questions: 1) Do we use any muscular power from the shoulders in the downswing, or should they feel like they are being pulled by the obliques? 2) I often feel tension in the upper arms and shoulders during the downswing, as if fighting centripetal force - in any case, is the goal to keep the arms quite tension-free throughout the swing? Thanks.
May 5, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey John, you want the obliques to be used to rotate the torso which will cause the shoulders to unwind. You want the shoulders to be passive and not use them as a direct power source. You also are wanting the arms to be pretty relaxed as well or they will tend to start the downswing sequence and can cause OTT for sure. The rotation caused by the torso and the hands and arms falling off the shoulder line will move them into the hitting area and ready to release.
May 5, 2014
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mike
I am an older golfer but I still maintain a low single digit handicap. Lately I have been having trouble with my iron shots. I am not hitting them consistently solid, mostly thin. Critiques of my swing have mostly been that I am too steep on the downswing. Any suggestions too correct this fault?
May 4, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Michael, steepness of the golf club can usually be attributed to a bunch of right side dominance in the downward move. Make sure that you are trying to get the right side of the body more passive in the downswing and working to feel more left sided with rotation of the torso with the left obliques as you are fully seated left.
May 5, 2014
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Jan
Are you shifting to left side before you finish the back swing or getting to the top then shifting? Furthermore are you restricting the hips while the top turns to feel that tension like a rubber band?
May 1, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Yes you are shifting left before the completion of the backswing and yes that is the correct feeling of the hips.
May 1, 2014
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Jesse
Do you actually feel tension in your left oblique [right for me as a lefty] as you are continuing the downswing after weight shift? I realized that I am not really engaging my oblique in my swing, and in speaking with my golf buddies, none of them really do that either, which could explain a lot! I think this is something that, although you mention quite a bit, it hasn't really been sinking in for me. Also, should I try to engage the abdominal muscles at address and takeaway in order to get them used to being engaged in the swing?
April 30, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Yes, feeling the lead obliques will be critical for pulling the lead hip away from the target along with creating torso rotation which is moving the hands and arms back out in front of the body.
April 30, 2014
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Justin
Hi, I was just reading through the discussion and had a question for you. I am working on sitting into the left side with weight shift. I started drilling this without a ball at slow speeds. At the range, I started pausing at the top of my swing, sitting into the left and then pulling with my oblique's and hitting full shots. My ball striking improved immediately. I mix in this drill by pausing at the top for 2 swings and then take a full swing without pausing after that - trying to ingrain the weight shift. However, do you recommend pausing at the top, when drilling and hitting shots? Will this eventually affect my tempo in a negative way? I don't want to ingrain the wrong moves. So far, it's seemed to really improve my ball striking in a short period of time. Thanks in advance.
April 29, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
I would not try to hit a ton of balls doing this sort of thing otherwise you are going to be relying more on timing from one day to the next. I would drill it a couple of times without the ball and then go at speed when its ball time.
April 29, 2014
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robert
Hi I am a 3 handicapper but don't rate myself as a ball striker. I have limited club head speed but tend to be an accurate player and score better than I play. I have been enjoying your lag videos and have been working hard on a number of the drills particularly the 9 to 3 drill. I can execute this exercise very well but when I try to create lag on say 7 iron shots I find that some fly brilliantly but others have the symptoms of casting from the top. If you were to suggest what drills to focus on - what would they be? I have been trying too many and have too many swing thoughts. Thanks Robin
April 27, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Robin, the best thing I can suggest would be to submit your swing for review so that we can take a good look where you are at swing wise and then lay out a game plan directly for you moving forward.
April 28, 2014
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Jason
I've heard other instructors say that you should maintain a 7 between your shoulders and your left arm in your downswing. It would seem to me that you guys are saying this is incorrect because the shoulders need to be closed and passive and the arms need to pull down. Is that correct? Should it feel more like the arms are pulling down a rope or starting a lawn mower (best analogy I could think of)?
April 24, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
That is correct and a pretty good way to imagine the feeling for sure.
April 24, 2014
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dean
One thing that I haven't heard mentioned specifically in the downswing it something that as a new player I find crucial is the straightening of the left leg as I'm coming into impact! Why is there no mention of this essential move? I had to have an instructor point this out to me (not rotary swing instructor). When I take a lesson, I make sure that what the teacher is suggesting is not in conflict to the rotary swing process but I was not aware of this very important move. It may seem obvious, but it was not to me.
April 22, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Dean, we have a video on just this. It is in the advanced downswing section here is the link. http://www.rotaryswing.com/videos/full-swing-advanced/downswing/straight-left-leg-at-impact
April 22, 2014
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joseph
Hello, I'm hoping you can clear up some confusion for me. I'm working on the weight shift in move 3 and notice that I tend to hip thrust. This has causes me to lose posture, etc. So, as I'm learning to properly shift my weight, I've also been doing the merry-go-round drill to improve my shoulder plane, but worried this will eventually cause me to start "hitting" with the right shoulder as Chuck cautions in this video. Can the merry-go-round drill cause me to hit with the right shoulder if I'm not careful?
April 14, 2014
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René (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Joseph. If you do the merry-go-round drill you still have to start the movement with the lower body first, getting you in a stable position with the glutes activated to perform the action with the upper body. So the down swing move goes bottom up. If you start with spinning your shoulders from the trailing side, yes a hitting motion can occur. First get the lower body working correctly and you will find out that the upper body will follow much more natural. Things will fall in place. Good luck!
April 14, 2014
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Brian
Which should I focus on the Downswing drills-- the squat or sitting into left side? Doesn't seem as though I should work on both simultaneously since they are two different moves. If the squat if for more advanced players, then why is it part of the Downswing plan?
April 12, 2014
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Tim (Certified RST Instructor)
Brian, squatting or sitting into the left side are the same movement. I wouldn't necessarily say that the squat is targeted to more advanced players, it is more targeted to players that aggressively spin their hips to start the downswing. A young Tiger is a great example of a player that used to violently spin his hips and getting him to squat was the only way to get him to slow his hips down. I like to describe this move to my players as falling off a curb and landing on your left heel. The key to this move is getting to neutral joint alignment on your left side. (Ankle-Hip-Shoulder) all lining up. Practice this move in front of a mirror and find out what works best for you to achieve this. You might feel it as a squat, or a sit or just a sense of falling left. If you continue to struggle with it, please send in a video for us to review and I'm sure we can help guide you to a simple solution. Hope that helps, thanks.
April 14, 2014
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Brian
Isn't the squat actually two moves: squat and then move to left heel? The sit is just fall left into the heel?
April 14, 2014
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Tim (Certified RST Instructor)
Brian, one movement is hard enough! We have to describe certain key movements of the swing in different ways to deal with the different unique issues of the player. The real key to this movement is to fire and activate the left glute. Once the glute fires, the remainder of the sequence tends to just fall into place. My favorite drill for this is the step drill. Clay does a great video on this drill and actually talks about how it increased his own club head speed significantly. Personally, I'm not a big fan of the "squat" reference, although I know it can work for a certain type of player. I also like the video titled Drill for Downswing Sequencing to help describe this. A great golf swing takes about 1.2 seconds, the point is to get to the left heel ASAP!
April 14, 2014
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Jason
The drill that Clay demonstrates, what is that video called?
April 14, 2014
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Tim (Certified RST Instructor)
Start Downswing before completing back swing. It's in the Full Swing Advanced-Weight Shift section. I also recommend watching the Lag and Speed Drills video in the Full Swing Advanced-Downswing section. These two along with The Golf Swing Release Drill are my personal favorites. If you can master the weight shift and the release you have jumped past 99.9% of the population trying to play golf...
April 14, 2014
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Brian
Which should I focus on the Downswing drills-- the squat or sitting into left side? Doesn't seem as though I should work on both simultaneously since they are two different moves. If the squat if for more advanced players, then why is it part of the Downswing plan?
April 10, 2014
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Jason
Anytime I try and squat my head (and body) want to shoot up as I release the club. I know the left leg straightens but my whole body seems to join in the fun. It is like I'm squatting to jump. I'm starting to think this is my body responding to my early release, but I wasn't sure if you guys had any insight into this issue. I've seemed to have some success with early release having the thought of pulling the club through the hitting area and letting the hands release.
April 9, 2014
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Tim (Certified RST Instructor)
Jason, the key to squatting in the transition is to also hold your back to the target while doing it. It is the separation of the upper and lower body that works the magic in the golf swing. If you squat and let the upper body unwind, you will almost certainly release the club early which will result in your body wanting to stand up quickly to avoid hitting the ground. The squat is only a lower body move so try working on it slowly and hold those shoulders back as long as you can! Good luck and keep working hard.
April 9, 2014

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