Golf Glossary

Every golf term, from axis tilt to supination, explained by a golf biomechanics expert. Each term includes the concept, the biomechanics behind it, the common amateur mistake, and a drill to train it.

Swing Mechanics

Angle Of Approach

The angle of approach refers to the trajectory at which the clubhead descends toward the ball during the swing.
Angle Of Attack

The angle of attack refers to the vertical angle at which the clubhead strikes the ball during the swing.
Attack Angle

Attack angle refers to the angle at which the clubhead approaches the ball at impact, influencing trajectory and distance.
Axis Tilt

Axis tilt refers to the angle of the spine in relation to the ground during the golf swing, influencing the swing plane and body rotation.
Backswing

The backswing is the initial phase of the golf swing where the club is lifted away from the ball, setting up the mechanics for an effective downswing.
Ball First Contact

Ball first contact refers to the ideal moment when the clubface strikes the golf ball before making contact with the ground.
Body Release

Body release refers to the coordinated movement of the body during the downswing and follow-through phases of the golf swing.
Casting

Casting is an early release of the wrist hinge during the downswing, leading to a loss of power and control in the golf swing.
Chicken Wing

The 'chicken wing' refers to a flawed arm position during the golf swing, often leading to poor ball striking and inconsistent shots.
Club Face To Path

The relationship between the angle of the club face and the direction of the swing path at impact, crucial for shot accuracy.
Club Path

Club path refers to the direction the clubhead travels during the swing, which significantly influences ball flight and shot accuracy.
Coil

Coil refers to the winding of the upper body around the lower body during the backswing, creating potential energy for the downswing.
Connection

Connection refers to the relationship between the arms and body during the golf swing, crucial for maintaining control and consistency.
Disconnection

Disconnection refers to a lack of proper sequence and timing between the upper and lower body during the golf swing.
Divot Pattern

The divot pattern refers to the shape and direction of the turf displaced during a golf swing, indicating the quality of the strike.
Downswing

The downswing is the phase of the golf swing where the club is brought down towards the ball after the backswing.
Downswing Transition

The downswing transition is the critical phase where the golfer shifts from the backswing to the downswing, influencing power and accuracy.
Dynamic Loft

Dynamic loft refers to the effective loft of the clubface at impact, influencing the launch angle and trajectory of the golf ball.
Early Extension

Early extension refers to the premature straightening of the hips during the downswing, affecting the golfer's posture and swing path.
Flipping

Flipping refers to the premature release of the wrists during the downswing, leading to a loss of power and control in the golf swing.
Follow Through

The follow through is the final phase of the golf swing, crucial for balance and shot accuracy.
Ground Force

Ground force refers to the vertical and horizontal forces exerted by the ground during the golf swing, crucial for generating power and stability.
Hip Slide

Hip slide refers to the lateral movement of the hips during the golf swing, impacting balance and power generation.
Horizontal Force

Horizontal force refers to the lateral forces exerted during the golf swing that influence clubhead speed and direction.
Impact Position

Impact position is the crucial moment in the golf swing where the clubface meets the ball, significantly influencing shot accuracy and distance.
In To Out

The 'in to out' swing path refers to a motion where the clubhead moves from inside the target line to outside during the downswing.
Kinematic Sequence

The kinematic sequence refers to the order in which body segments move during the golf swing, crucial for generating power and consistency.
Lag

Lag refers to the angle created between the club shaft and the lead arm during the downswing, crucial for generating power and speed.
Lateral Slide

Lateral slide refers to the horizontal movement of the hips during the golf swing, crucial for maintaining balance and power.
Lead Wrist Extension

Lead wrist extension refers to the upward bending of the lead wrist during the golf swing, which influences clubface angle and shot trajectory.
Lead Wrist Flexion

Lead wrist flexion refers to the bending of the lead wrist during the golf swing, crucial for proper clubface control.
Loading

Loading refers to the process of storing potential energy in the body during the backswing to enhance power and speed in the downswing.
Low Point

The low point in a golf swing is the lowest position of the clubhead during the downswing, crucial for ball striking consistency.
One Plane Swing

A one plane swing is a golf swing where the club stays on a single plane throughout the entire motion.
Out To In

The 'out to in' swing path refers to a club movement that travels from outside the target line to inside during the downswing.
Over Swinging

Over swinging refers to the excessive lengthening of the backswing, which can lead to loss of control and consistency in the golf swing.
Over The Top

Over the top refers to a common swing fault where the club moves outside the ideal swing plane during the downswing, leading to inconsistent ball flight.
Pivot Stall

Pivot stall occurs when the lower body stops rotating during the swing, affecting power and consistency.
Pressure Shift

Pressure shift refers to the transfer of weight from one foot to the other during the golf swing, crucial for generating power and stability.
Pronation

Pronation refers to the inward rotation of the forearm and wrist during the golf swing, affecting clubface orientation and swing path.
Radial Deviation

Radial deviation refers to the movement of the wrist towards the thumb side during the golf swing.
Release

The release in golf refers to the moment when the golfer allows the clubhead to accelerate through impact with the ball.
Reverse C Finish

A reverse C finish is a swing position where the upper body leans backward, creating a 'C' shape in the opposite direction of a proper finish.
Reverse Pivot

A reverse pivot occurs when a golfer shifts their weight incorrectly during the swing, leading to a loss of power and balance.
Rhythm

Rhythm in golf refers to the timing and tempo of the swing, crucial for consistent ball striking.
Rotary Swing

A rotary swing is a golf swing technique that emphasizes body rotation around a fixed axis to enhance power and consistency.
Shallowing

Shallowing refers to the process of lowering the club's angle of attack during the downswing to promote a more efficient strike on the ball.
Single Plane Swing

A single plane swing is a golf technique where the club and arms move in a single, consistent plane throughout the swing.
Squat Move

The squat move refers to the downward motion of the body during the golf swing, facilitating proper weight transfer and maintaining balance.
Stack And Tilt Swing

The Stack and Tilt swing is a golf technique emphasizing weight distribution and a stable spine angle throughout the swing.
Stall And Release

Stall and release refers to the timing of the golfer's body and club during the downswing and follow-through.
Start Down

The 'start down' refers to the initial phase of the downswing in the golf swing sequence.
Steepening

Steepening refers to the angle of the club's shaft during the downswing, impacting the swing path and angle of attack.
Supination

Supination refers to the outward rotation of the forearm and hand, crucial for proper wrist positioning during the golf swing.
Swing Arc

The swing arc refers to the circular path that the clubhead follows during the golf swing.
Swing Plane

The swing plane refers to the tilted plane along which the clubhead travels during the golf swing, influencing the path and angle of the shot.
Takeaway

The takeaway is the initial movement of the golf club away from the ball, setting the stage for the entire swing.
Tempo

Tempo refers to the rhythm and timing of a golfer's swing, crucial for consistent ball striking.
Timing

Timing in golf refers to the synchronization of body movements during the swing for optimal energy transfer and shot consistency.
Trail Elbow Pit

The trail elbow pit refers to the space created by the bend in the elbow of the trailing arm during the golf swing.
Transition Pause

The transition pause is a brief moment of stillness at the top of the backswing before initiating the downswing.
Two Plane Swing

The two plane swing is a golf swing technique characterized by distinct vertical and horizontal planes during the backswing and downswing.
Ulnar Deviation

Ulnar deviation is the movement of the wrist towards the ulnar side, or pinky side, which plays a critical role in the golf swing.
Unloading

Unloading refers to the release of stored energy in the golf swing during the downswing and impact phases.
Vertical Force

Vertical force refers to the upward and downward forces exerted during the golf swing, crucial for generating power and stability.
Weight Shift

Weight shift refers to the transfer of body weight during the golf swing, crucial for generating power and maintaining balance.
Weight Transfer

Weight transfer refers to the shift of body mass from one foot to the other during the golf swing, crucial for generating power and maintaining balance.

Biomechanics & Body Position

Anterior Chain

The anterior chain refers to the muscles and connective tissues at the front of the body that play a crucial role in maintaining posture and stability during the golf swing.
C7 Position

The C7 position refers to the alignment of the cervical spine at the seventh cervical vertebra during the golf swing.
Core Engagement

Core engagement refers to the activation of the muscles in the abdominal and lower back regions during the golf swing.
Elbow Flexion

Elbow flexion refers to the bending of the elbow joint, crucial for proper arm positioning during the golf swing.
Fascial Sling

A fascial sling is a network of connective tissue that aids in the transfer of force and stability during the golf swing.
Forearm Rotation

Forearm rotation refers to the movement of the forearms during the golf swing, crucial for clubface control and shot accuracy.
Glute Activation

Glute activation refers to the engagement of the gluteal muscles during the golf swing, crucial for power and stability.
Hip Flexors

Hip flexors are a group of muscles that play a crucial role in the rotation and stability of the pelvis during the golf swing.
Lat Engagement

Lat engagement refers to the activation of the latissimus dorsi muscles during the golf swing, crucial for maintaining stability and power.
Lead Hip Wind

Lead hip wind refers to the rotational movement of the lead hip during the backswing and downswing, crucial for generating power and stability.
Lead Shoulder

The lead shoulder is the shoulder closest to the target during the golf swing, playing a crucial role in body rotation and swing mechanics.
P1 Position

P1 position refers to the initial setup and posture of the golfer at address, which is crucial for a successful swing.
P2 Position

The P2 position refers to the halfway point in the backswing, where the club is parallel to the ground and the lead arm is extended.
P3 Position

The P3 position refers to the critical moment in the golf swing when the club is parallel to the ground during the downswing.
P4 Position

The P4 position refers to the top of the backswing where the club is parallel to the ground, crucial for setting up an effective downswing.
P5 Position

The P5 position refers to the moment in the golf swing where the club is parallel to the ground during the downswing.
P6 Position

The P6 position refers to the moment in the golf swing when the club is parallel to the ground during the downswing, critical for proper sequencing.
P7 Position

The P7 position refers to the moment in the golf swing when the club is parallel to the ground during the downswing, crucial for impact alignment.
P8 Position

The P8 position refers to the golfer's body alignment and club position at the end of the downswing, crucial for effective impact.
Pelvic Tilt

Pelvic tilt refers to the orientation of the pelvis in relation to the spine during the golf swing, influencing posture and weight transfer.
Posterior Chain

The posterior chain refers to the group of muscles along the back of the body, crucial for generating power and stability in the golf swing.
Scapula Retraction

Scapula retraction refers to the movement of the shoulder blades towards the spine, crucial for maintaining proper posture and stability during the golf swing.
Scapular Loading

Scapular loading refers to the positioning and movement of the shoulder blades during the golf swing, crucial for generating power and stability.
Spine Angle

Spine angle refers to the angle formed by the spine relative to the ground during the golf swing, influencing posture and swing mechanics.
Trail Hip

The trail hip refers to the hip opposite the target during the golf swing, playing a crucial role in generating power and stability.
Trail Scapula

The trail scapula is the shoulder blade on the trailing side of the body during the golf swing, crucial for proper shoulder rotation and stability.
Trail Shoulder

The trail shoulder refers to the shoulder opposite the target, playing a crucial role in the golf swing's rotational mechanics.
Wrist Cock

Wrist cock refers to the angle formed by the wrist during the backswing, crucial for storing energy and promoting an efficient downswing.
Wrist Hinge

Wrist hinge refers to the upward bending of the wrists during the backswing, crucial for creating leverage and power in the golf swing.

Ball Flight & Launch Data

Apex Height

Apex height refers to the highest point in the trajectory of a golf ball after it is struck.
Ball Speed

Ball speed refers to the velocity of the golf ball immediately after impact with the clubface.
Ballflight Laws

Ball flight laws describe the relationship between the clubface angle, swing path, and the resulting trajectory of the golf ball.
Bounce Off Face

Bounce off face refers to the angle and speed at which a golf ball leaves the clubface after impact.
Carry Distance

Carry distance is the total distance a golf ball travels through the air before touching the ground.
Center Of Percussion

The center of percussion is the point on a golf club where impact produces minimal vibration and maximum energy transfer to the ball.
Club Head Mass

Club head mass refers to the weight of the club head, which influences swing dynamics and ball flight characteristics.
Club Speed

Club speed refers to the velocity of the golf club head at impact, crucial for determining the distance a ball travels.
Clubhead Speed

Clubhead speed refers to the velocity at which the clubhead moves at impact, significantly influencing the distance and trajectory of the golf ball.
Delivery Angle

The delivery angle is the angle at which the clubhead approaches the ball at impact, influencing the ball's trajectory and spin.
Descent Angle

Descent angle refers to the angle at which a golf ball descends toward the ground after reaching its peak height.
Draw

A draw is a controlled shot that curves slightly from right to left for a right-handed golfer, enhancing distance and accuracy.
Face Angle At Address

Face angle at address refers to the orientation of the clubface relative to the target line before initiating the swing.
Face Angle At Impact

Face angle at impact refers to the orientation of the clubface at the moment it strikes the ball, significantly influencing ball flight direction.
Face To Path Ratio

The face to path ratio refers to the relationship between the clubface angle and the swing path at impact, influencing the direction of the golf ball.
Fade

A fade is a controlled shot that curves gently from left to right for right-handed golfers, impacting trajectory and distance.
Forgiveness

Forgiveness refers to a club's ability to minimize the impact of off-center hits on ball flight and distance.
Gear Effect

Gear effect refers to the phenomenon where the clubface's angle at impact influences the spin and direction of the ball.
Hook

A hook is a shot that curves significantly from right to left for a right-handed golfer, often resulting from an inside-out swing path.
Launch Angle

Launch angle is the angle at which a golf ball leaves the clubface after impact, significantly affecting its trajectory and distance.
New Ball Flight Laws

New ball flight laws refer to the updated understanding of how various swing factors influence the trajectory and direction of a golf ball.
Offset

Offset refers to the angle of the clubface relative to the shaft, influencing the trajectory and direction of the ball.
Old Ball Flight Laws

Old ball flight laws refer to outdated concepts explaining how a golf ball behaves in flight based on swing mechanics and clubface orientation.
Path At Impact

The path at impact refers to the direction the clubhead travels through the ball at the moment of contact.
Pull

A pull is a shot that travels straight left of the target line for a right-handed golfer, caused by an improper swing path.
Push

A push is a shot that travels straight right of the target for right-handed golfers, often caused by an incorrect swing path.
Slice

A slice is a shot that curves dramatically to the right (for right-handed golfers) due to sidespin and improper swing path.
Smash Factor

Smash factor is the ratio of ball speed to clubhead speed, indicating the efficiency of energy transfer during impact.
Spin Axis

The spin axis refers to the imaginary line around which a golf ball rotates during flight, influencing its trajectory and behavior.
Spin Rate

Spin rate refers to the number of revolutions per minute (RPM) that a golf ball makes during its flight.
Straight Shot

A straight shot in golf refers to a golf ball that travels on a direct line towards the target without significant curvature.
Total Distance

Total distance refers to the complete distance a golf ball travels from the point of impact to its final resting place.

Short Game

Bellied Wedge

A bellied wedge shot occurs when the clubface strikes the ball with the leading edge, causing it to pop up and travel a shorter distance than intended.
Bump And Run

The bump and run is a short game shot that uses a low trajectory to roll the ball towards the hole, minimizing air time.
Bunker Shot

A bunker shot is a specialized short game technique used to escape sand traps and achieve a controlled landing on the green.
Check Shot

A check shot is a short game technique used to create backspin on the ball, allowing for greater control on approach shots.
Chip Shot

A chip shot is a short, low-trajectory shot played around the green, designed to get the ball to roll toward the hole.
Explosion Shot

An explosion shot is a short game technique used to escape from a greenside bunker with a high, soft landing.
Flop Shot

A flop shot is a high, soft shot played around the greens, designed to land softly and stop quickly.
Fried Egg

A 'fried egg' lies in a bunker with the ball partially buried in the sand, resembling a fried egg.
High Flop

A high flop is a short game shot characterized by a steep angle of ascent, allowing the ball to land softly on the green.
Hinge And Hold

Hinge and hold is a chipping technique that emphasizes wrist hinge during the backswing and maintaining that angle through impact.
Knock Down Shot

A knock down shot is a controlled, lower trajectory shot used to reduce the impact of wind or to avoid obstacles.
Lag Putting

Lag putting refers to the technique of hitting long putts with the goal of leaving the ball close to the hole.
Lob Shot

A lob shot is a high, short-distance shot designed to land softly on the green, often used to navigate obstacles.
Low Runner

A low runner is a type of golf shot characterized by a low trajectory and minimal airtime, designed to roll out significantly upon landing.
Pitch Shot

A pitch shot is a short, high-trajectory shot played around the green, designed to land softly and roll minimally.
Plugged Lie

A plugged lie occurs when the ball is embedded in the ground, making it difficult to strike cleanly.
Sitter

A 'sitter' refers to a short game shot where the ball is in an ideal position for an easy and effective strike.
Spinner

A spinner is a type of shot in golf that imparts significant backspin on the ball, allowing for greater control and stopping power on the green.
Stinger

A stinger is a low, penetrating golf shot that travels long distances with reduced spin and a lower trajectory.
Texas Wedge

A Texas wedge is a shot played with a putter from off the green, typically used on closely mown grass.

Putting

Arc Putting

Arc putting refers to a putting stroke that follows a curved path, promoting a more consistent and accurate roll of the ball.
Claw Grip

The claw grip is a putting technique where the dominant hand is positioned in a 'claw' shape, enhancing control and stability during the stroke.
Face Rotation

Face rotation refers to the movement of the putter face around its vertical axis during the stroke, influencing the ball's direction and roll.
Left Hand Low

Left hand low is a putting grip where the left hand is positioned lower on the grip than the right hand, promoting a more stable stroke.
Putter Loft

Putter loft refers to the angle of the clubface relative to the ground, influencing the ball's launch and roll characteristics.
Putting Eye Line

The putting eye line refers to the alignment of the player's eyes relative to the target line during a putting stroke.
Putting Grip

The putting grip is the specific way a golfer holds the putter to enhance control and feel during the stroke.
Putting Stance

The putting stance refers to the position of a golfer's body and feet while preparing to execute a putt.
Reverse Overlap

Reverse overlap is a grip technique used in putting where the index finger of the top hand overlaps the fingers of the bottom hand.
Straight Back Straight Through

Straight back straight through is a putting stroke technique emphasizing a linear path for the putter head during the stroke.
Sweet Spot Putter

The sweet spot on a putter is the optimal point on the clubface for achieving maximum energy transfer and accuracy during a putt.

Equipment & Club Design

Balance Point

The balance point of a golf club is the location where the weight is evenly distributed, affecting swing dynamics and feel.
Bulge And Roll

Bulge and roll refer to the curvature of a golf clubface designed to enhance ball flight and accuracy on off-center hits.
Cavity Back Iron

A cavity back iron features a hollowed-out rear section, enhancing forgiveness and improving playability for golfers.
Center Of Gravity

The center of gravity (CG) is the point in a golf club or ball where its weight is evenly distributed, influencing performance and feel.
Club Length

Club length refers to the measurement from the heel of the clubhead to the end of the grip, affecting swing mechanics and player comfort.
Cog

The center of gravity (COG) in golf equipment refers to the point where the weight is evenly distributed, affecting performance and feel.
Counter Balance

Counter balance refers to the strategic distribution of weight in a golf club to enhance stability and control during the swing.
Driver Spin Rate

Driver spin rate refers to the amount of backspin generated by the golf ball upon impact with the driver.
Forgiveness Perimeter

The forgiveness perimeter refers to the area on a golf club's face that maintains performance on off-center hits.
Grip Size

Grip size refers to the diameter of the golf club grip, which affects control, comfort, and swing mechanics.
Head Size

Head size refers to the dimensions of a golf club's clubhead, impacting performance and playability.
Lie Angle

Lie angle refers to the angle between the shaft of the club and the ground when the club is in a proper address position.
Loft Angle

Loft angle refers to the angle of the clubface relative to the ground, influencing the trajectory and distance of the golf ball.
Mass Properties

Mass properties refer to the physical characteristics of a golf club that influence its performance, including weight, balance, and inertia.
Moi

Moment of inertia (MOI) measures a clubhead's resistance to twisting during a swing, impacting stability and accuracy.
Muscle Back Iron

A muscle back iron is a type of golf club designed for advanced players, featuring a solid, compact head for enhanced control and feel.
Shaft Flex

Shaft flex refers to the degree of bend in a golf club shaft during the swing, influencing shot trajectory and distance.
Shaft Kick Point

The shaft kick point refers to the location along the shaft where it bends during the swing, influencing ball flight and feel.
Shaft Torque

Shaft torque refers to the twisting force applied to a golf club shaft during the swing.
Sole Grind

Sole grind refers to the shaping of a golf club's sole to enhance performance on different lies and turf conditions.
Sweet Spot Marker

A sweet spot marker is a visual aid on a golf club face that indicates the optimal point of contact for maximizing distance and accuracy.
Swing Weight

Swing weight refers to the distribution of weight in a golf club, affecting how the club feels during the swing.
Wedge Bounce

Wedge bounce refers to the angle between the leading edge and the lowest point of the sole of a golf wedge.
Wedge Grind

Wedge grind refers to the specific shaping of a golf club's sole to enhance performance in various turf conditions.

Common Faults & Fixes

Across The Line

Across the line refers to a position where the club is aimed too far left at the top of the backswing for a right-handed golfer.
Block

A block is a type of shot where the ball travels straight but veers to the right for right-handed golfers, often due to improper swing mechanics.
Casting From The Top

Casting from the top refers to an early release of the wrist hinge during the downswing, leading to loss of power and control.
Chicken Winging

Chicken winging refers to a flawed swing posture where the lead arm bends excessively during the follow-through.
Chunks

Chunks refer to a common fault where the club strikes the ground before the ball, resulting in a poor shot.
Coming Over The Top

Coming over the top is a common swing fault where the club approaches the ball from outside the target line, often causing slices or pulls.
Duck Hook

A duck hook is a severe leftward shot shape for right-handed golfers, resulting from excessive clubface closure and an inside-out swing path.
Early Release

Early release occurs when the golfer's hands move ahead of the clubhead during the downswing, leading to loss of power and accuracy.
Fats

Fats occur when the club strikes the ground before the ball, resulting in a loss of distance and accuracy.
Heel Strike

A heel strike occurs when the golf club's heel makes contact with the ball, leading to poor shot direction and distance.
Laid Off

Laid off refers to a position in the golf swing where the club is too horizontal at the top of the backswing.
Losing Posture

Losing posture refers to the failure to maintain the proper spine angle and body alignment throughout the golf swing.
Lunging

Lunging refers to the excessive forward movement of the upper body during the downswing, often leading to inconsistent ball striking.
Narrow Downswing

A narrow downswing refers to a swing path that is too steep and lacks width, leading to inconsistent strikes.
Pull Hook

A pull hook is a shot that starts left of the target line and curves sharply to the left, often resulting from an incorrect swing path.
Pulled Putts

Pulled putts occur when the ball is struck on a line left of the intended target, resulting in a missed putt.
Push Slice

A push slice is a golf shot that starts right of the target and curves to the right, often resulting from improper swing mechanics.
Pushed Putts

Pushed putts occur when the ball is struck and travels to the right of the intended target line for right-handed golfers.
Reverse Spine Angle

Reverse spine angle occurs when the upper body leans away from the target during the downswing, leading to inconsistent ball striking.
Scooping

Scooping is an improper technique where the golfer attempts to lift the ball into the air rather than making solid contact.
Shanks

Shanks occur when the ball is struck by the hosel of the club, resulting in a severe misdirection to the right for right-handed golfers.
Skulls

Skulls refer to shots that strike the ball too high on the clubface, resulting in low trajectory and excessive distance.
Steep Downswing

A steep downswing occurs when the club approaches the ball at a sharp angle, often leading to inconsistent strikes and loss of distance.
Stuck

Being 'stuck' refers to a position in the golf swing where the golfer cannot properly rotate or transition, often leading to poor contact.
Swaying

Swaying refers to lateral movement of the body during the golf swing, often leading to inconsistent strikes and loss of balance.
Thins

Thins occur when the clubface makes contact with the ball too high, resulting in a low, skimming shot.
Toe Strike

A toe strike occurs when the golf club makes contact with the ball near the toe of the clubface, affecting direction and distance.
Tops

Tops occur when the clubface strikes the top half of the golf ball, causing it to travel low and often resulting in a poor shot.