Golf Downswing, Rotary Golf Downswing Overview

Sorry, you need to be a member to access this video.
You Are Just Seconds Away - Become a member here!
Already a member? Log in now

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


Golf Downswing

Perhaps the "Holy Grail" of golf, mastering the golf downswing is a challenge for most golfers. Getting the golf downswing sequence correct starts with a proper downswing transition. Most golfers don't understand how to start the downswing properly and instead fire their arms from the top of the backswing. This leads to a loss of lag in the golf swing and a poor sequence that is irrecoverable.

Proper Downswing Drills

A proper downswing sequence actually starts with something relatively very simple - weight shift. If you simple shift your weight back to the lead leg during the downswing transition, your arms will naturally begin to work their way back down on plane and in the proper sequence. We have lots of downswing drills to help you with a proper weight shift, one of my personal favorites is this downswing drill.

The Frisbee Drill makes learing a proper golf downswing more natural and even kind of fun! Yep, you can have fun while working on your golf swing! Most golfers have thrown a frisbee at one point or another and so the natural golf downswing sequence becomes easy to understand. This downswing drill even helps you detect when you have too much tension in your arms and shoulders as this wouldn't be natural when throwing the frisbee.

Mastering the golf downswing will take some work and some time, but using our vast catalog of downswing drills will get you mastering this critical move in no time!

In the entire golf swing, the downswing is probably the most misunderstood and misinterpreted move by amateur golfers. It must be understood that the downswing is the result of an uncoiling of the core muscles that were stretched during the backswing as well as a throwing motion of the right arm accompanied by a pulling with the left. Our initial goal in the golf downswing is to shift the weight back to the left and rotate the hips away from the target. The weight shift back to the left both creates momentum and puts the left hip in a stable and safe position to prepare for the upcoming rotation. It is critical that the golfer NOT perform this shift and rotation solely by pushing from the trailing leg. A pulling motion from the hip muscles that attach to the inner upper thigh will shift the weight fully back to the left while ensuring the golfer does not move past NJA. The rotation is also dominated by the left hip girdle. Doing so will rotate the hips fully to a 45 degree open position but not past. Only by pushing from the right leg will the golfer be able to move past this 45 degree open position. The key point that must be illustrated to the students is that the forces of movement in the downswing originate from the hips and obliques, resulting in a weight shift and a pulling to the left, NEVER from the upper body, shoulders, arms, etc.

The proper sequence of the downswing is as follows:

1.      Externally rotate the left leg to move the knee directly over the left ankle.

2. Pull the weight over to the left with left hip adduction.

3. Plant the weight firmly by pushing the left ankle into the ground and activating the left glute.

4. Pull from the left oblique, turning the hips 45 degrees open in relation to the target line.

5. Pull with the left lat to pull the arms back in front of the torso.

6. Fire the right arm by extending from the right elbow, focusing the force through the right hand pressure points.

 

hips-club-centripetal.jpgFigure 37 - The hips move in the opposite direction of the club head.

The result of this chain of events occurring in sequence and being performed from the proper origin is centripetal force: the hips rotating towards center and away from the target, and the arms and club are accelerated and move towards the target. In the image to the right, you can see that the hips have been rotated back away from the target, or to the left, while the club head works away from the body. For maximum club head speed, we want the hips rotating back to the left while the upper torso remains passive. This can increase the separation between the upper and lower halves. The highest ball speeds are produced by golfers producing the maximal rotational separation between the upper torso and pelvis. Higher handicap golfers create significantly less separation and, thus, significantly less speed. Typically, amateurs only achieve approximately 35% of the separation of professionals. This separation can only occur when the downswing is performed in the proper sequence and from the correct origin of movement.

This entire sequence is initiated by the weight shift back to the left which starts with the external rotation of the left leg. Once the weight has been established firmly into the left side, the student should engage the left oblique muscle and pull the hips to the left. Pulling from the left oblique will turn the left hip away from the target, moving the hips a total of 90 from their position at the top of the backswing. To this point, the arms have worked back in front of the body by the downward pulling motion of the left arm and the pulling of the right pec. As the weight is transferred into the left side and hips are rotated 90, the upper torso will be pulled around by this action and begin to be unwound by the hips. The result should be an impact position with the hips 45 open to the target line and the shoulders square to the target line. The weight is 80-90% on the left side, more specifically over the left ankle. The right heel should be off the ground by the time we reach the impact position as a result of this weight transfer and hip rotation, but only because it has been pulled up by the left side weight transfer and rotation, not because the golfer has pushed off the right in an effort to "spin" or slide the hips. Any student who has his right foot flat on the ground at impact has clearly not transferred enough weight to the left side or has a stance that is very narrow. This is quite common in students trying to master this move for the first time and is most typical of the higher handicappers. It is the Rotary Swing Instructors job to determine the root cause of the weight remaining on the right side. Let us examine these causes in greater detail.

Common Causes of Hanging Back on the Right Foot

IMG_0220.JPGThe first and most common cause occurs when the student attempts to rotate his hips before transferring his weight on to his left ankle. It is essential that the weight move over the left ankle, activating the left glute for stabilization, before the pulling with the left oblique occurs. If the weight transfer into the left ankle does not occur first in the downswing, when the student rotates his hips, he will be simply spinning out. The student will often be flat footed at impact with the left hip being shy of NJA and will not get fully onto the left side until well after the golf ball is gone. The RST instructor must identify the issue and be able to illustrate to the student how to successfully transfer the weight into the left side before unwinding with the hips in the golf downswing.

 

 

 

Figure 38 - A severe hang back like this one will result in fat and topped shots.


Figure 39  - Here the golfer has pushed the left hip outside of neutral by shoving off the right foot, placing the hip in a vulnerable and weak position.

The second most common fault in the weight transfer occurs when the student attempts to rotate his hips and transfer his weight by pushing from the right side instead of pulling from the left. Pushing off the right foot most often creates a slide of the hips and moves the left hip past NJA, putting the golfer at serious risk for injury to the lead hip. The push also creates too much axis tilt (spine angle leaning away from the target when viewed from face on), leading to a path that is too far from the inside with hooks and blocks as the reward. The pushing motion is very common and also makes it hard for the golfer to keep his head behind the ball at impact. Only by using a pulling motion can we protect the hip from injury and be stacked over the golf ball for a powerful impact.

The RST instructor must be able to identify where the force of movement is coming from at the top of the downswing to identify the push from the right side as well as other common faults. By far, the most common mistakes made by students will involve the force of movement coming from the upper body, the shoulders, the arms, etc. to start the downswing. Any involvement of the upper torso in the downswing will destroy the sequence, path, plane and power. Force of movement coming from the upper body can be easily identified by the following:

         The right shoulder moves out towards the target line.

         The head moves in front of the ball.

         The plane of the club is now shifted into a steep, out to in attack angle and path.

         The shoulders will be open at impact.

         The weight gets transferred onto the balls of the feet.

         The student will most likely have trouble maintaining his original spine angle.

 

IMG_0231.JPGTo the left is the image of the typical high handicap golfer who tries to heave his upper torso at the ball as his first move down rather than shifting the weight to the left, allowing the arms time to start working back down in front of the body. This is the epitome of the over the top slicer and can easily be rectified by having the student work and focus on the proper movements and stop focusing on striking the golf ball.

 

 

Impact and Address the Same?

One other example the RST instructor must be aware of is when the force of movement comes from the top, yet the students shoulders are square at impact, accompanied by a noticeable lack of lower body rotation. The RST instructor will encounter this frequently in higher handicap golfers. The student in this situation has successfully rerouted the golf club by forcing his arms to drop by only using the arms to accelerate the golf club. The force of movement is still being provided by the upper torso, predominantly, the arms and hands, and the student will have a very flat footed appearance at impact and very little power. The student has effectively rerouted the golf club with his hands and arms but has not generated power from his core. The student is simply relying on hand-eye coordination in order to strike the ball, which is a very inefficient and inconsistent manipulation and is not using the rotation of the hips to generate any speed. The impact and address positions should not be the same, so if you cant tell which frame you are looking at on video, theres a problem.

flat-footed-dtl.jpgFigure 40 - Am I at impact or address here? Who knows?!

To summarize, the downswing is a powerful uncoiling motion, accompanied by a pulling down of the left arm while creating an underarm/sidearm throwing motion with the right arm. We simultaneously transfer our weight from our right ankle to our left ankle, activating our left glute. Once this left glute is activated for stabilization and our weight is pushed down into the ground via the left ankle, a pulling with the left oblique, resulting in hip rotation, allows us to use rotational instead of lateral forces. As a result of this pulling, the hips rotate away from the target while the arms and the club move towards the target. The force of movement must come from our left oblique pulling our hip behind us, never from the upper torso. The hips will move a total of 90 from the position at the top of the backswing to impact. In relationship to the target line, the hips will be 45 open and the shoulders will be square.

When the golf downswing is performed correctly:

         The weight transfers onto the left ankle.

         The student pulls from the left oblique in order to rotate the hips.

         The right shoulder appears to move vertically down towards the right foot at the start of the downswing rather than out toward the ball when viewed from down the line.

         Shoulders remain closed, and the students head will appear to drop slightly in the more powerful strikers.

         The golfer may give the appearance of slightly squatting as the weight transfer occurs with the flex in the right knee staying the same or increasing from where it was at the top of the swing.

         The club can be seen bisecting the right forearm as the hands work past belt high when viewed DTL.

         The student will easily maintain the original spine angle from setup or even increase slightly.

         The right ankle will begin to be pulled off the ground and work toward the left as the hips rotate 45 open.

         The right arm will be nearly fully extended at impact.

         The shoulders will be square at the impact position.

 

Move 3.jpg

Figure 41 - The shift back to the left is the first momentum generator in the downswing and is the key to an efficient kinematic sequence.



In the image below, we can see just how far the left hip has moved halfway through Move 3 from where it was at the top of the swing. The hips, if viewed from down the line, would be slightly open to the target at this point, while it is clear that the shoulders have remained closed, allowing the arms time to work back in front of the chest. (Note that because this is a driver, the stance is wider than 2" outside of neutral. This is ok for the driver when wanting to increase the launch angle as this helps shallow out the angle of attack when combined with a slightly forward ball position. The driver is a specialty club and the only one that we want to catch slightly on the upswing when trying to achieve maximum distance. So modifications to the setup are acceptable.)

In the next photo, we get a down the line view at the moment just after impact. It is here that we can see the shoulders square to the target line, while the hips have rotated 45 degrees more than the shoulders. The arms are extended in front of the chest, and the right heel is slightly off the ground. Note the slack in the shirt on the right side, signifying side bend. This indicates the golfer remained "in the box" into impact without the right shoulder jutting out toward the ball and disconnecting from the core. This position is paramount for transferring forces and energy from the hips and core generated during the downswing to the arms, club and, eventually, the ball. If the right shoulder blade is allowed to protract early in the downswing as it so often does in amateurs, there will be little energy transfer from the rotating torso, and the musculature of the shoulder girdle will be all that can be used to generate speed.

To further understand how the scapular protraction creates power loss, imagine a boxer throwing a punch. If the boxer were to throw a punch with the scapula in an elevated and protracted position, as you can feel for yourself by shrugging your shoulders and trying to throw a punch, it wouldnt be very powerful. The scapula is the primary connection point to the large musculature in the torso to the arms. If the scapula is depressed, you can feel how more energy can be transferred from the body. A feeling of being able to apply momentum and force from the pivot of the hips and the mass of the upper torso is the same feeling we seek during the golf downswing.

Figure 42 - At impact, the right arm will be nearly at full extension, with the shoulders being square to the target line and the hips open.

 

 

The Throw the Ball Drill

Perhaps the most useful drill you will put into your arsenal to assist with the learning process of the weight shift, backswing and downswing components is the Throw the Ball Drill. This very simple drill, when done correctly, allows the golfer to perform nearly every single movement in the golf swing and practice them while developing a sense of speed. It is especially helpful in teaching golfers to properly shift their weight in the downswing. This correct weight shift is truly the crux of the golf swing, both in timing it and getting into the proper impact position via the weight shift. This drill, because it mimics a natural throwing motion that most have learned at some point in their lives, comes naturally and even easily for many golfers, especially the more athletically versed.

To start, have the golfer pick up a golf ball and place it on the index finger pressure point of the right hand. Then, have the golfer perform the Right Arm Only Backswing drill to get to the proper position at the top. From there, have the golfer feel as though the hips and shoulders remain closed to the target line while he throws the ball down the line at another ball on the ground where the golf ball would normally be at address. What you will find is that almost all golfers will naturally shift their weight, unwind their hips and end up in a perfectly balanced finish position when doing this. And, even though you instructed them to not unwind their shoulders and hips, they will have done so in an effort to generate speed in the throw. It is simply unnatural for someone to perform this drill and not shift the weight and unwind the hips correctly.

Right Arm Only Golf Downswing Drill

This drill will truly test the golfers kinesthetic awareness and proprioception, while helping them ingrain the necessary movements for speed in the downswing. I have used this drill to help countless golfers pick up 10 mph of club head speed with the driver in less than ten minutes, so its value cannot be overstated.

Simply put, this drill involves swinging the club with the right arm only. It should be started from the preset position of the Right Arm Only Backswing drill at first. The student should understand that the goal is not to see how far they can hit the ball with this drill. Rather, the goal is to create synchronization between the rotating body and swinging arms while teaching the student where the speed comes from in the downswing. You should always start the student out with the ball on the tee when hitting balls with this drill, although a ball is completely optional. The student should feel that the right arm is releasing past the body coming into impact rather than the right shoulder continuing to turn ahead of the arm. In fact, the right shoulder should be almost stationary at impact in order for the right arm to be allowed to fully release and reach maximum speed before impact. In Figure 43, you can see just how little the right shoulder has moved from the time the club is parallel to the ground until just after impact. This is a vital component to generating a feeling of effortless speed. Think of the right shoulder as the handle of a whip. When you want the end of the whip to accelerate, you dont keep moving the handle in the direction you wish to crack the tip. You stop it from moving so that all the energy created by moving the handle can be transmitted out toward the end. The same is true here. If the right shoulder keeps moving toward the target, the arms and club will fully release after impact has already occurred, which is useless. By keeping the right shoulder back, the club head is allowed to accelerate past with great speed, allowing physics to take over. For golfers who are very aggressive with the shoulders rotating through impact, they will feel like they are putting significantly less effort into impact and they are. This will bedifficult to trust at first because it will feel slower to them. Of course, 
its not. In fact, its much faster when done correctly, but its always a good idea to keep a Swing Speed Radar handy to help drive the point home for them.

Figure 43 - Note from face on that the right shoulder appears nearly stationary through the hitting area to give the arms a chance to release past the body with great speed.

 

Review questions:

1. What is the correct origin of movement to start the downswing?

 

2. Define the proper sequence for the golf downswing.

 

3. Which muscle is responsible for rotating the hips?

 

4. What are some of the common results if the origin of movement in the downswing is initiated by the upper body?

 

5. What are the proper positions of the hips/shoulders at impact?

 

All right, so a 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 as little effort as humanly possible. In fact, that's the most common thing that I hear everyday 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. That's because we're extremely efficient with our movements 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 of these things in the swing, so that we can create a lot of speed with 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- At a speed faster than about 92 miles an hour. You simply don't have enough muscle mass to create enough horse power to move the club than about 92 miles an hour with a driver. That's why most every amateur on the planet is stuck at that speed. They never get past the triple digit number.

                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. Again, it all starts with the big muscle movements.

                In the [downswing 00:01:34]- We've obviously talked about the backswing, 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 really going to 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 comes down to an economy of scale when it comes down to muscle movement. Once you're fine with your arms and shoulders, you've only got so much muscle up here. 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 a hundred miles an hour? I'd say 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 forearms. 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 of that together in the right sequence that it's very easy for me to swing over 100 miles an hour. You're going to be able to do it too as you start understanding all these movement patterns.

                The first thing from the top of the swing, which I'm going to do without my arms again, because we don't need to worry about the club. We're focused on big motor movements so we take our club and our arms out of it. 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 to start going this way.

                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. 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. My hands and arms can stay relatively relaxed. As I do that, I've not created some momentum going this way and as I start to rotate my pelvis this way, take the club out, now all of the sudden the club has been moved about seven feet in the down swing without me doing anything with my arms or hands or shoulders.

                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 to them at all. If anything I'm trying to imagine that I'm doing the opposite. I'm not trying to really do anything with them. But as I start down, I'm just letting them relax. You'll notice as I do this that 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. 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 of these videos is that you're going to start to focus on shifting your weight, rotating, and posting up. That's the whole movement. Not trying to do something with your hands or trying to 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. You 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 are really tight you can't move them very fast. 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. 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 variables of RST that look a little 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. I get asked all the time which tour pros uses RST. They all do or they wouldn't be out there. They have to have these basic scientific principals in their golf swing or the ball's not going to go anywhere and it's not going to go anywhere very consistently.

                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 picking these things out for yourself and learning through observation of other great players what you need to do in your swing. 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 casting the club. That's all just right side dominate movement that we talk about a lot in the website.

                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.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do you get a good golf downswing?

With a downswing, really, the only thing you really need to focus on is what your trunk is doing. What your core and your legs are doing is, hands-down, the most important part of the downswing. Most amateurs mistakenly focus just on what their club and arms and hands are doing.

The proper sequence of the downswing is as follows:

1.  Externally rotate the left leg to move the knee directly over the left ankle.

2.  Pull the weight over to the left with left hip adduction.

3.  Plant the weight firmly by pushing the left ankle into the ground and activating the left glute.

4.  Pull from the left oblique, turning the hips 45 degrees open in relation to the target line.

5.  Pull with the left lat to pull the arms back in front of the torso.

6.  Fire the right arm by extending from the right elbow, focusing the force through the right hand pressure points.

What is the first move in the golf downswing?

A proper downswing sequence actually starts with something relatively very simple - weight shift. If you simple shift your weight back to the lead leg during the downswing transition, your arms will naturally begin to work their way back down on plane and in the proper sequence.

How do you control a downswing in golf?

The downswing is the result of an uncoiling of the core muscles that were stretched during the backswing as well as a throwing motion of the right arm accompanied by a pulling with the left. Our initial goal in the golf downswing is to shift the weight back to the left and rotate the hips away from the target. The weight shift back to the left both creates momentum and puts the left hip in a stable and safe position to prepare for the upcoming rotation.

How do I slow down my downswing?

I've got a three-part weight shift series on the site that will walk you through how to slow down your downswing and shift your weight going back, talking about the right hip line, how to shift to the left, and how to post up into a perfect release. So if you struggle with the downswing, if you're coming over the top, if you're casting, if you're coming too far from the inside, all of these things are covered in our three-part weight shift series.

Must be Premium Member to Comment

64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Peter. Start Downswing Before Completing Backswing/Perfect your golf impact - 4 of 4.
October 15, 2020
64x64
Peter
Thank you.
October 16, 2020
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jim. Happy to help.
October 9, 2020
64x64
Gavin
Hi Craig, Any update mate?
October 3, 2020
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
Gavin
Swing below
September 28, 2020
64x64
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
64x64
Gavin
I'm losing posture though right, to me that's because I'm posting up
October 8, 2020
64x64
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
64x64
Gavin
DJ
September 28, 2020
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
Gavin
Image attached
September 23, 2020
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
Gavin
Whats the number and the title, they all have numbers and titles. Cheers,
August 25, 2020
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Lesson 9 - How to Shallow the Golf Club Like the Pros with One Move
August 25, 2020
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Rayan. Absolutely. Our pleasure to help. Just remind me in the notes on the review.
July 13, 2020
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
Mayur
Hello Craig, thank you for your quick response and great swing review. What do you mean by lift?
May 13, 2020
64x64
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
64x64
Mayur
How does this position look, Craig?
May 14, 2020
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Mayur. If you uploaded a picture. It seems it didn't post.
May 14, 2020
64x64
Mayur
How about now?
May 14, 2020
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Better. Still some lead arm across the chest trending to get deep. More below.
May 14, 2020
64x64
Mayur
I see. So, what video would I need to watch in order to fix it?
May 14, 2020
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
Christopher
Can’t find the dead drill video anywhere on the site.
August 29, 2019
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Christopher. It was sent via email to all the members. It is on our YouTube page.
August 30, 2019
64x64
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
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Ronan. Yes, that's the feel you are looking for.
August 29, 2019
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
Julie
O.k. So should I keep the 12 degrees of loft? Thanks
June 25, 2019
64x64
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
64x64
Julie
O.k. Thank you
June 25, 2019
64x64
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
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Chris. Exactly. I usually tell the students lead heel/lead glute will be the awareness.
June 18, 2019
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
charles
What s the trigger to keep my left arm straight after impact. My,left arm bends?,
May 19, 2019
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
sambhu
Is sitting onto left glute and pulling with left oblique same as posting on left leg?
March 25, 2019
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
Victor
Understood, thanks for your reply again! I shall let you know if I have further question after watching that video.
February 26, 2019
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
jesse
GLUTE lol. Awesome I’ll work on those.
January 18, 2019
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
Ron
Thanks, I looked at the video and will give it a try today.
December 19, 2018
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
Luis
Thanks Craig, I'll try that
November 9, 2018
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello David. Take a look at the Level Shoulders Drill.
October 23, 2018
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
Christian
Left
August 5, 2018
64x64
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
64x64
Christian
Ok thanks
August 7, 2018
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
Yuefeng
Very clear. Thank you.
December 5, 2017
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
Martin L
After shifting weight how do I keep from over rotating my hips on the down swing?
March 28, 2017
64x64
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
64x64
Martin L
Thanks, I'll check it out.
March 29, 2017
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Mary. Take a look at Fixing Your Weight Transfer and Preventing Hip Pain.
March 23, 2017
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
sambhu
Thanks! Makes sense...
January 22, 2017
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
Kent
In conjunction with working with your drills, would you recommend using a swing fan ? Thanks..William
October 14, 2016
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
David
wow great description thanks!
September 23, 2016
64x64
Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
My pleasure!
September 24, 2016
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
Tom
Hi Craig, I received a notice that you responded to my comment but there is nothing posted. Thanks! Tom
August 25, 2016
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Tom. It is posted below.
August 25, 2016
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Tom. Was the lead arm only swing with a ball or practice?
August 25, 2016
64x64
Tom
Practice! I just hit a few with a ball.
August 25, 2016
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
Berly
Thank you.
August 1, 2016
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
charles
Having trouble leaving a good divot. Fat or thin mostly?
July 24, 2016
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Greg. You might be pulling too hard. Tightness in the trail shoulder, arms, etc?
July 12, 2016
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
George
Ok. Is it still right side push if it's happening on left arm only swings?
July 10, 2016
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
dennis
What causes you to hit the ball on the toe.
June 21, 2016
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello John. You will sit into the lead heel/glute and the hip will pull behind you.
June 19, 2016
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
Richard
Thank you Craig I will do as suggested. Look forward to input on swing review.
June 11, 2016
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
Jeff
Thanks, I'll let you know.
May 25, 2016
64x64
Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Sounds good Jeff!
May 25, 2016
64x64
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
64x64
Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Very good to hear this.
May 28, 2016
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello David. Could you provide a little more specifics? Was it a recent video?
April 14, 2016
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
Rich
When I go bad it's a pull/hook. How do I correct this problem?
March 29, 2016
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello David. I will inform Chris that some of our members would like to see Fowler.
January 25, 2016
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Evan. Thanks for the post. Yes, that should still work with the shift to the left.
December 14, 2015
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Fred. I will notify customer service for you and they will prompt a new review.
December 5, 2015
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
David
Hi guys Is the first movement of the arms for the right elbow to tuck into your side?
December 1, 2015
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Great! Keep it up!
November 19, 2015
64x64
Terry
Still working on getting lag.
November 19, 2015
64x64
Masato
Hello, how would I know if I'm on the correct plane in the downswing?
November 15, 2015
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hell Masato. Take a look at the Proper Golf Swing Plane Video.
November 15, 2015
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Justin. Take a look at the Driver Launch Angle Video and the Sledgehammer Drill.
November 10, 2015
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
Frank J
CAN NOT VIEW E_MAIL. HELP, PLEASE.
November 6, 2015
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Frank. I will contact customer service for you.
November 6, 2015
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Anthony. Sounds good to me.
October 30, 2015
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
Lester
Thanks, Craig!
October 27, 2015
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jon. I would be interested in seeing your backswing plane. Are you under it going back?
October 5, 2015
64x64
Jon
Over the top of it and this is only with driver. Not strong enough right arm inflexion?
October 5, 2015
64x64
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
64x64
Jon
It's even happening on a shallow backswing. Can the stiffness of the shaft have any effect?
October 5, 2015
64x64
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
64x64
Jon
The ball throw drill actually did the trick for me. Thank you for replying so quickly.
October 5, 2015
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
charles
Thx Craig. Have looked at them was wondering if you had other thoughts?
September 28, 2015
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64
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
64x64