How to Fix a Steep Downswing in Golf

Learn how to fix a steep downswing by using your trail side effectively for better power and control.

Watch the full 3-minute video lesson

Understanding the Steep Downswing

A steep downswing is a common issue for many golfers, particularly those who are trying to generate power primarily from their lead side. This often leads to an inconsistency in ball striking and can result in undesirable shots. If you find yourself pulling too hard with your lead side, this article will help you understand the mechanics behind your swing and how to correct it.

Lead Side Dominance and Its Effects

When golfers are overly reliant on their lead side, they tend to pull down hard, which causes the club to become steep during the downswing. This pulling action can be especially prevalent in those who are naturally right-handed but play left-handed, or vice versa. The result is a steep angle of attack, which negatively affects both distance and accuracy.

The Role of the Trail Side

To achieve a more effective downswing, it’s crucial to understand how to utilize the four levers of your trail side. The trail side helps generate rotational power, allowing for a shallower angle of attack. This means that instead of simply pulling down with your lead arm, you should focus on using your trail arm to assist in throwing the club through impact.

Analyzing Your Swing

When analyzing your swing, pay attention to the position of your arms. If your right arm is pushing the club back and your left arm is low, this indicates that your lead side is dominating the swing. A well-balanced swing will show both arms working together, without one overpowering the other. This balance is key to achieving a more effective downswing.

Shallowing the Club

To shallow the club during your downswing, you need to ensure that your trail arm contributes significantly to the motion. When the trail arm engages properly, the club can drop down to the correct position in the swing, allowing for a more natural path. This is often evident when you perform certain drills that encourage the use of the trail side, resulting in a more effective post-up position in your follow-through.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many golfers, like Phil Mickelson in his earlier career, struggle with not posting up properly due to lead side dominance. This leads to a lack of stability and can cause the right foot to shift around, searching for grip. Instead, focus on the natural post-up that occurs when you engage your trail side effectively.

Drills to Improve Your Swing

To correct a steep downswing, practice drills that emphasize throwing with your trail side. This not only helps in achieving a shallower angle but also promotes a more balanced swing. The Axiom Power Program offers effective drills designed to help you feel the proper connection between your lead and trail sides, ultimately leading to improved swing mechanics.

Conclusion

By shifting your focus from lead side dominance to utilizing your trail side, you can dramatically improve your downswing. The goal is to create a balanced, effective swing that allows for both power and accuracy. Remember, the key to a successful golf swing lies in understanding and mastering the mechanics of your body.

Key Takeaways

Over-reliance on the lead side can lead to a steep downswing.
Utilize your trail side to generate power and achieve a shallower angle.
Balance between both arms is crucial for a consistent swing.
Practice drills that focus on the trail side to improve your downswing.
Monitor your swing mechanics to avoid common mistakes associated with lead side dominance.

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