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

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

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

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

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

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

Flip vs. Release in Golf
Flip vs. Release in Golf

What is the difference between a proper golf club release and a flip in the golf swing? To ...

How to Get Perfect Shaft Lean at Impact
How to Get Perfect Shaft Lean at Impact

You want to hit those boring, hissing shots that scream off the face like a rocket? This g ...

Golf Impact Position Face On
Golf Impact Position Face On

After all your hard work on the backswing, it's time for the big payoff! Getting into the ...

Golf Impact Position Down the Line
Golf Impact Position Down the Line

As I discussed in the video on Impact Alignments Face On, impact is everything in RST. All ...

Cure Chicken Wing in the Golf Swing
Cure Chicken Wing in the Golf Swing

You now have a 3-step drill to help you cure your chicken wing golf swing once and for all ...

Left Elbow Position at Impact
Left Elbow Position at Impact

Find out a simple trick to hit straighter shots while also virtually eliminating your chan ...

3 Steps to better impact position in golf
3 Steps to better impact position in golf

Golf is a sport that can leave you frustrated round after round, but WHY? What exactly are ...

Golf Impact - Part 2 of 7
Golf Impact - Part 2 of 7

In part 2 of this new 7 part video series, I'll discuss one of the most important parts th ...

Perfect your golf impact - 1 of 4
Perfect your golf impact - 1 of 4

Compressing the golf ball like a tour pro can be very hard to do. In this new video series ...

Perfect your golf impact - 2 of 4
Perfect your golf impact - 2 of 4

Effortless power in the golf swing is a difficult concept for many amateur golfers. In vid ...

Perfect your golf impact - 3 of 4
Perfect your golf impact - 3 of 4

Learn how to add more speed to your golf swing by leveraging the ground like a tour pro.

Perfect your golf impact - 4 of 4
Perfect your golf impact - 4 of 4

Lag in the golf swing is key for clubhead speed. In this video, I'll show you how to add m ...

Perfecting your golf impact - Bonus
Perfecting your golf impact - Bonus

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

Overview of the Push Release
Overview of the Push Release

An overview to the push release for those who want to use the right side to help power the ...

Fix Your Swing Sway w/ the Wall Drill
Fix Your Swing Sway w/ the Wall Drill

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

Intro to Weight Shift in the Golf Swing
Intro to Weight Shift in the Golf Swing

Weight shift in the golf swing is the FIRST thing you must master before worrying about an ...

Weight Shift in the Golf Swing - Pt. 1
Weight Shift in the Golf Swing - Pt. 1

Using our Science and Motion (SAM) Balance Lab, we can pin point weight shift and weight d ...

Weight Shift Part 2 - Right Hip Line
Weight Shift Part 2 - Right Hip Line

In this second video on understanding weight shift in the golf swing, I discuss specifical ...

Weight Shift Part 3 - To the Left
Weight Shift Part 3 - To the Left

The culmination in the three part series on correct weight shift in the golf swing gets us ...

Step 1 - Weight Shift
Step 1 - Weight Shift

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

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

Step 1 - Weight shift drills

Weight Shift Sweep Drills
Weight Shift Sweep Drills

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

5 Minute Golf Setup w/ Weight Shift
5 Minute Golf Setup w/ Weight Shift

Once you've mastered the setup, you can add weight shift to your program to begin developi ...

Fixing Your Weight Transfer in the Golf Swing
Fixing Your Weight Transfer in the Golf Swing

In this video, I will show you 2 of the most common faults in downswing transition by not ...

Learn Perfect Weight Shift in Your Socks
Learn Perfect Weight Shift in Your Socks

Struggling with your weight shift? I'm going to show you how to diagnose your mistakes by ...

How Attack Angle Affects Compression
How Attack Angle Affects Compression

Ever notice how the PGA Tour pros take razor thin divots? That's exactly what you want. Th ...

Taking a Divot in Front of the Ball
Taking a Divot in Front of the Ball

Taking a proper divot is something that is critical to crisp and consistent iron play, but ...

Angle of Attack
Angle of Attack

Taking deep divots? Are you supposed to? What do the pros do? This video tells you how ste ...

Swing Faults When Your Stance is Too Wide
Swing Faults When Your Stance is Too Wide

One of the most common problems with the setup, here's what happens when your stance is to ...

Fix Your Release - Trail Shoulder Back
Fix Your Release - Trail Shoulder Back

This golf instruction video is for those who struggle to stop spinning their shoulders ope ...

Moving the Fulcrum & Hitting Shots off the Toe
Moving the Fulcrum & Hitting Shots off the Toe

It's one of my most important golf instruction videos ever, this will completely transform ...

How to Cure the Shanks in 3 Steps
How to Cure the Shanks in 3 Steps

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

Getting Stuck on the Downswing
Getting Stuck on the Downswing

Tiger Woods used to always complain about getting "stuck" in the downswing; a position tha ...

Blocked Golf Shots | Fwd Shaft Lean
Blocked Golf Shots | Fwd Shaft Lean

If you want to compress the ball for explosive distance, then you need to be working on st ...

How to Fix the Two Way Miss in Golf
How to Fix the Two Way Miss in Golf

Struggle with the dreaded two-way miss in golf? One shot goes right and the next goes left ...

2 Finger Release Drill
2 Finger Release Drill

This awesome drill forces you to release the golf club like a tour pro! You're going to lo ...

Stop Coming Over the Top in the Golf Swing and Slicing
Stop Coming Over the Top in the Golf Swing and Slicing

You're well aware that slicing destroys your distance and your scorecard. What you may not ...

Stop Slicing and Start Releasing the Golf Club
Stop Slicing and Start Releasing the Golf Club

In this video, I’ll show you how to release your club to stop slicing and get better com ...

Square the Clubface Early
Square the Clubface Early

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

Hitting a Fade
Hitting a Fade

Learning how to hit a fade is all about learning to control the release of the golf club. ...

How to Stop Hooking the Golf Ball
How to Stop Hooking the Golf Ball

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

Hitting a Draw
Hitting a Draw

Once you've mastered the RST swing method, you realize that, due to the simplicity of the ...

How to Hit the 3 Yard Draw
How to Hit the 3 Yard Draw

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

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

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

How to Fix Golf Reverse Pivot
How to Fix Golf Reverse Pivot

A reverse pivot golf swing can cause a whole lot of bad shots, from hitting it thin to hit ...

Fix Your Swing Sway w/ the Wall Drill
Fix Your Swing Sway w/ the Wall Drill

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

Fix Reverse Pivot - Trail Side Dominant Setup
Fix Reverse Pivot - Trail Side Dominant Setup

This golf setup check is critical to getting rid of a reverse pivot and over the top downs ...

5 Minutes to Master Rotation
5 Minutes to Master Rotation

This video holds the 5 step pathway to mastering rotation in the golf swing. At the end of ...

Keep the Right Arm Straight to Turn
Keep the Right Arm Straight to Turn

One of the most common faults that destroys a powerful turn in the golf swing is how the r ...

How to Fix a Flat Shoulder Turn
How to Fix a Flat Shoulder Turn

Fix a flat shoulder turn in your golf backswing with this simple and easy to do drill.

Simple Fix to Make a Full Shoulder Turn
Simple Fix to Make a Full Shoulder Turn

Struggle with making a full turn, even though your fit and flexible? Lacking the distance ...

Using the Core
Using the Core

Using a side by side face on view of Tiger Woods with a driver and a recent swing of mine ...

The Bucket Drill - Golf Shoulder Turn
The Bucket Drill - Golf Shoulder Turn

The Bucket Drill is one that provides a very simple and clear picture on how to rotate cor ...

Intro to Core Rotation in Golf Swing
Intro to Core Rotation in Golf Swing

The rotating core is the "engine" of the golf swing and the primary mover of the entire sw ...

Step 2 - Core Rotation
Step 2 - Core Rotation

Step 2- Adding body rotation

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

The drill only for Step 2 - Body Rotation

Clamshell Drill - How to Cure Early Extension
Clamshell Drill - How to Cure Early Extension

The Clamshell Drill is the key to the golf swing, no seriously! If you want to see how the ...

Eliminate Early Extension in Golf Swing
Eliminate Early Extension in Golf Swing

The REAL causes of early extension in the golf swing and the only TRUE way to fix it.

Closed Hip Slide
Closed Hip Slide

A closed hip slide is detrimental to your golf swing when learning how to shift your weigh ...

Live Lesson - How to Stop Losing Tush Line & Boost Consistency
Live Lesson - How to Stop Losing Tush Line & Boost Consistency

Struggling with a 2 way miss and lack of consistency? Watch this Live Lesson to learn a si ...

Losing the Tush Line
Losing the Tush Line

One of the most common questions I get regularly is how to stop losing the tush line, or s ...

Squat to Square in the Golf Downswing
Squat to Square in the Golf Downswing

If you watch golf on TV, it seems that you can't turn your hips fast enough or far enough ...

Squeeze the Cheeks for Consistency
Squeeze the Cheeks for Consistency

The glute muscles (your butt cheeks) are some of the most important muscles in the golf sw ...

Role of the Right Foot in Downswing
Role of the Right Foot in Downswing

Footwork is a bit of a misnomer in the golf swing but you hear it every week on TV. What i ...

Fix Your Over the Top Swing by Fixing Your Hand Path
Fix Your Over the Top Swing by Fixing Your Hand Path

Learn how to fix your over the top golf swing by simply being able to read a clock. If you ...

Stop Coming Over the Top in the Golf Swing and Slicing
Stop Coming Over the Top in the Golf Swing and Slicing

You're well aware that slicing destroys your distance and your scorecard. What you may not ...

How to Shallow Your Golf Swing Fast and Easy - Live Lesson
How to Shallow Your Golf Swing Fast and Easy - Live Lesson

Do you struggle with shallowing the club in the downswing and keep hitting a pull cut or e ...

How to Shallow Your Hands During Transition
How to Shallow Your Hands During Transition

Do your hands go straight out toward the golf ball and don't shallow out during the transi ...

Over the Top Stick Drill
Over the Top Stick Drill

Are you tired of yelling “Fore!” when you hit big, nasty slices off the tee? If so, he ...

Drill to Learn Inside Path to Golf Ball
Drill to Learn Inside Path to Golf Ball

Tired of the over the top slice? This drill and training aid will teach you how to approac ...

How to Fix Your Over the Top Move - Live Lesson
How to Fix Your Over the Top Move - Live Lesson

Do you have a steep, over the top golf swing? No matter what you try and do, you can't sto ...

9 to 3 Lag Building Drills
9 to 3 Lag Building Drills

Learn how to build lag in your golf swing with these 9 to 3 lag building drills. You'll le ...

AXIOM Lag in the Golf Swing
AXIOM Lag in the Golf Swing

Producing incredible lag has never been this easy - or fast

Increase Lag - Impact Cube Drill
Increase Lag - Impact Cube Drill

This awesome drill will teach you to not cast the club and maintain lag into impact.

Speed vs. Power in the Golf Swing
Speed vs. Power in the Golf Swing

Speed vs. Power - Which is it that you want in the golf swing? Many golfers think they nee ...

Reshaping Your Golf Swing for Lag
Reshaping Your Golf Swing for Lag

It's no secret that you want more lag in your swing. In this incredible video, I give you ...

RST Student Success - Building More Lag
RST Student Success - Building More Lag

RST student uses a simple 3 step process to shallow his golf swing and build in a ton of l ...

Intro to Fix Losing Lag and Weak Release
Intro to Fix Losing Lag and Weak Release

Find out how to work through this section on how to cure your golf casting / loss of lag o ...

Sklz Gold Flex Lag Trainer
Sklz Gold Flex Lag Trainer

This KILLER training aid will help you master a smooth, one-piece takeaway and help you bu ...

Rickie Fowler - How to preserve Lag
Rickie Fowler - How to preserve Lag

Lag is the most efficient way to increase clubhead speed. In this video, RST Instructor Ch ...

Lag and Speed Drills
Lag and Speed Drills

To get more distance in golf, you've got to get maximum speed from your arms and not let y ...

Key to Creating Lag
Key to Creating Lag

The secret key to creating lag has been an elusive thing for most amateur golfers. In this ...

Downcock Pump Lag Drill
Downcock Pump Lag Drill

Every golfer wants to know how to create more lag in their swing to hit the ball further. ...

Golf Grip's Effect on Lag
Golf Grip's Effect on Lag

As you've no doubt seen, my golf students have been picking up some serious distance throu ...

Become a Golf Swing Lag Monster: Shocking Success Story
Become a Golf Swing Lag Monster: Shocking Success Story

In this video, I’ll show you how RST student David became a "lag monster" with RST swing ...

4 Step Golf Swing Lag Builder
4 Step Golf Swing Lag Builder

The 4 steps to building INSANE lag in your golf swing - and you can do it TODAY!

Golf Left Thumb: Fix Pain, Soreness, Casting
Golf Left Thumb: Fix Pain, Soreness, Casting

Casting the club in the downswing is a sure way to destroy club head speed. Check out this ...

Right Arm in Downswing: Stop Casting
Right Arm in Downswing: Stop Casting

In this video, you’ll find out: 1) How Tiger Woods builds lag for power, 2) What to feel ...

Sequencing the Downswing - Dump Truck and Drag Racer
Sequencing the Downswing - Dump Truck and Drag Racer

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

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

Have you ever wondered how the pros use their legs for power in the golf swing? This video ...

My Golf Power Secret
My Golf Power Secret

How do the pros hit the ball so darn far? I tell all inside with this power secret!

Using your wrists for speed in golf swing - 5 of 7
Using your wrists for speed in golf swing - 5 of 7

Your body uses tension as its primary mechanism to sequence the golf swing. In general, th ...

Vertical Ground Force and Double Peaks
Vertical Ground Force and Double Peaks

Should you be trying to increase vertical ground force in your swing and if so, how should ...

Throw the Club Head at the Golf Ball
Throw the Club Head at the Golf Ball

Unlock the leverage, speed and power of your golf swing by understanding the physics behin ...

Throw for More Natural Golf Swing
Throw for More Natural Golf Swing

Do you want a more natural golf swing with much more speed? Then you need to focus on how ...

Using the Wrists in the Golf Swing
Using the Wrists in the Golf Swing

The wrists play a very dynamic role in your golf swing. In this video, I'll cover the term ...

The Tour Pro Downswing Sequence Drill
The Tour Pro Downswing Sequence Drill

If you are looking for a golf swing drill that can INSTANTLY improve your ball striking po ...

Trail Arm Release - Throw the Ball Drill Pt 1
Trail Arm Release - Throw the Ball Drill Pt 1

This is THE key drill for really understanding how the downswing sequencing works. This 20 ...

Trail Arm Release - Throw the Ball Drill Pt 2
Trail Arm Release - Throw the Ball Drill Pt 2

Are you ready to maximize your club head speed at impact? If so, you need this missing pie ...

Tim Burke - Kinetic Chain
Tim Burke - Kinetic Chain

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

Golf Takeaway | Overview
Golf Takeaway | Overview

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

AXIOM Refine Your Takeaway
AXIOM Refine Your Takeaway

Simplify your takeaway with a simple 2" movement that moves the club 6 feet!

Learn a Perfect Golf Takeaway with Just a 2 Inch Movement!
Learn a Perfect Golf Takeaway with Just a 2 Inch Movement!

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

Fix Inside Takeaway - 4 Square Drill
Fix Inside Takeaway - 4 Square Drill

You probably overuse your hands during the first half of the backswing, like most golfers, ...

Understanding Shoulder Blade Glide
Understanding Shoulder Blade Glide

If you have questions about exactly what the shoulder blade glide is or what it should fee ...

Golf Takeaway, 5 Minutes to the Perfect Golf Takeaway
Golf Takeaway, 5 Minutes to the Perfect Golf Takeaway

This 30 minute long golf instruction video is key to setting you on the right path for the ...

Right Wrist in the Takeaway
Right Wrist in the Takeaway

The role of right wrist in the takeaway is often misunderstood and has been the source of ...

Fix Inside Takeaway - Pushing with the Lead Side
Fix Inside Takeaway - Pushing with the Lead Side

An extremely common swing fault, so common that many golf instructors actually teach the s ...

Role of the Right Arm - Takeaway
Role of the Right Arm - Takeaway

Collapsing the right arm early is something that at least 90% of amateur golfers struggle ...

Pull for a perfect takeaway - 6 of 7
Pull for a perfect takeaway - 6 of 7

So many golfers try to perfect the takeaway in the swing and they constantly fight an uphi ...

Thorbjorn Olesen - Perfect your takeaway
Thorbjorn Olesen - Perfect your takeaway

See 2 key moves that Thorbjorn Olesen uses to build a picture perfect takeaway position ev ...

One Simple Key to Fix Your Takeaway
One Simple Key to Fix Your Takeaway

In this video, I’ll show you the one swing change that’ll fix your takeaway once and f ...

Posture's Effect on the Takeaway
Posture's Effect on the Takeaway

Posture at address is something that Tiger Woods always does right and it's something that ...

How to Fix an Inside Takeaway
How to Fix an Inside Takeaway

This one simple trick will fix an inside takeaway instantly, I guarantee it!

Fix Inside Takeaway - Shake Hands Drill
Fix Inside Takeaway - Shake Hands Drill

This is the best golf swing drill to teach you exactly how your hands should work during t ...

Golf Swing Takeaway & Drills
Golf Swing Takeaway & Drills

The golf takeaway has been described by golf instructors countless ways, so many ways that ...

Fix Inside Takeaway - Belly Button Drill
Fix Inside Takeaway - Belly Button Drill

This simple takeaway drill will give you that one piece takeaway you've been looking for o ...

Fix Inside Takeaway - Forward Press
Fix Inside Takeaway - Forward Press

If you've ever wondered whether or not you should have a forward press at setup, this golf ...

Wrist Cock vs. Wrist Hinge in the Golf Swing
Wrist Cock vs. Wrist Hinge in the Golf Swing

Do you know the difference between wrist cock and wrist hinge in the golf swing? The diffe ...

AXIOM Body Backswing
AXIOM Body Backswing

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

AXIOM Refine Your Backswing
AXIOM Refine Your Backswing

Dial in your arms during the backswing to start easily shaping the ball, changing trajecto ...

Body Rotation in Golf Backswing - Chair Drill
Body Rotation in Golf Backswing - Chair Drill

If you want to power up your swing in golf, body rotation in the backswing is crucial. Unf ...

Left Shoulder Push in Backswing
Left Shoulder Push in Backswing

This "Left Shoulder Push in the Backswing" video is for you ONLY if you already pull perfe ...

5 Minutes to the Perfect Golf Backswing
5 Minutes to the Perfect Golf Backswing

Once you've mastered the takeaway using our "5 Minutes to the Perfect Takeaway" video, you ...

My Golf Backswing Secrets
My Golf Backswing Secrets

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

How Much Shoulder Elevation
How Much Shoulder Elevation

It's time to help you decide how to power your golf swing. And it all starts with how you ...

Right Elbow Pit in Golf Backswing
Right Elbow Pit in Golf Backswing

Do you struggle, like most golfers, with a flying right elbow at the top of the backswing? ...

Understanding Arm Elevation
Understanding Arm Elevation

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

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

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

Live Lesson - How to Fix Your Arms by Fixing Your Legs in the Backswing
Live Lesson - How to Fix Your Arms by Fixing Your Legs in the Backswing

Do you struggle with your arms getting too deep or too disconnected during the backswing? ...

Right Arm Backswing Drill
Right Arm Backswing Drill

This is an excellent drill to train your mind to use your torso rotation to move the club ...

Should You Restrict Your Hip Turn in the Backswing?
Should You Restrict Your Hip Turn in the Backswing?

For years, you've been taught to restrict the hips in the backswing. Is that what's best f ...

Simplify Your Backswing with Shallow Arms
Simplify Your Backswing with Shallow Arms

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

Stop Overswinging | Get Your Backswing Under Control
Stop Overswinging | Get Your Backswing Under Control

A powerful, compact backswing is essential for creating good contact with the ball. If ...

Fix Hip Overturning in Your Backswing
Fix Hip Overturning in Your Backswing

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

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

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

Torso, Hips Over Rotating in Backswing
Torso, Hips Over Rotating in Backswing

How much shoulder turn is too much and how much is not enough? Depends on how it's measure ...

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

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

Golf Backswing, Completing the Golf Backswing
Golf Backswing, Completing the Golf Backswing

Once you've mastered the setup, weight transfer and takeaway, it's time to progress to the ...

Winter Golf Training Program - Backswing
Winter Golf Training Program - Backswing

Snow on the ground? Too cold out? No problem! NOW is the BEST time to work on your golf sw ...

Upper vs. Lower Body Rotation in Backswing
Upper vs. Lower Body Rotation in Backswing

Confused about how your upper body rotates in the backswing compared to your lower body? T ...

How to Keep Your Left Arm Straight in the Backswing
How to Keep Your Left Arm Straight in the Backswing

The secret to why you can't keep your left arm straight at the top of the golf backswing.

How to Avoid a Cupped Left Wrist at the Top
How to Avoid a Cupped Left Wrist at the Top

Learn the cause of a cupped left wrist at the top of your golf backswing and how to fix it ...

How to Fix Trail Leg Straightening in Backswing
How to Fix Trail Leg Straightening in Backswing

Is your trail leg straightening in the backswing? Do you know what kind of issues this sim ...

Do You Start Backswing w/ Hips or Shoulders?
Do You Start Backswing w/ Hips or Shoulders?

To start the golf swing with the upper or lower body, that is the question! I think Shakes ...

Checkpoints - 5 Minutes Backswing
Checkpoints - 5 Minutes Backswing

If you who have already watched the complete 5 Minutes to the Perfect Backswing video, thi ...

5 Minutes to a Perfect Backswing Pitfalls
5 Minutes to a Perfect Backswing Pitfalls

In this premium video, I am going to cover some of the common mistakes that RST students m ...

3 Functions of Right Arm in Backswing
3 Functions of Right Arm in Backswing

In this video, I'll show you the 3 functions of the right arm in creating the perfect back ...

Henrik Stenson's Backswing Moves
Henrik Stenson's Backswing Moves

See how Henrik Stenson's idiosyncrasies work in his powerful golf swing. Check out these ...

Jason Day - Perfect Backswing
Jason Day - Perfect Backswing

Swing plane is a very common term used in golf and has become a primary focus point for a ...

What is a Perfect Golf Swing Plane?
What is a Perfect Golf Swing Plane?

Swing plane is NOT something you work on by swinging in a big PVC hoop or swinging around ...

How to Fix Swing Plane & Path
How to Fix Swing Plane & Path

If you want to truly, once and for all, fix your golf swing plane and path, you must heed ...

Creating a Swing Plane
Creating a Swing Plane

So many golfers struggle with their ball striking because they misunderstand the concept B ...

Fix Swing Plane - Lead Arm Two Club Drill
Fix Swing Plane - Lead Arm Two Club Drill

Here's a simple golf swing plane drill to get your swing back on track fast with a trainin ...

How Knee Flex Determines Swing Plane
How Knee Flex Determines Swing Plane

Do you struggle with swinging too far from the inside? Part of the problem could actually ...

Trace the Plane Line
Trace the Plane Line

Do you tend to get "stuck" in the downswing? Do you hit blocks and quick hooks? Do you wan ...

Golf Grip's Effect on Swing Plane
Golf Grip's Effect on Swing Plane

Having a proper grip is crucial for club face control and lag in the golf swing. In this v ...

Stop Coming Under the Plane in Golf
Stop Coming Under the Plane in Golf

Coming into impact under plane kills your consistency, often resulting in blocked shots, t ...

AXIOM Body Tour Impact
AXIOM Body Tour Impact

Learn the secret of how the pros are so consistent with this tour impact position.

AXIOM Body Downswing
AXIOM Body Downswing

Learn how to cure your flip, stop hitting fat and thin shots and how to get into the perfe ...

AXIOM Release Left vs. Right
AXIOM Release Left vs. Right

Discover the release that is best for you and your swing that will give you the fastest re ...

AXIOM Release Overview
AXIOM Release Overview

Finally, understand what it means and feels like to fully release the club

AXIOM Compression Drill
AXIOM Compression Drill

THE drill that will give you the consistency you desire with effortless distance you didn' ...

AXIOM Unleash Your Inner Speed Demon!
AXIOM Unleash Your Inner Speed Demon!

Learn how three tiny changes can unleash 30+ more yards on your drives when you need it.

Golf Swing Sequence - How the Lower Body Works
Golf Swing Sequence - How the Lower Body Works

Struggle with coming over the top or don't know how to use your lower body in the golf swi ...

The Magic Box - How to Check Your Lower Body in the Transition
The Magic Box - How to Check Your Lower Body in the Transition

The "Magic Box" is a term created by Chuck Quinton to help golfers learn the proper transi ...

Start Downswing Before Completing Backswing
Start Downswing Before Completing Backswing

You need to start your downswing before completing your backswing. This pro-style transiti ...

Golf Swing Transition Drill
Golf Swing Transition Drill

Most instructors consider the transition in the golf swing the most difficult, if not impo ...

Which Muscles to Feel During Golf Swing Transition
Which Muscles to Feel During Golf Swing Transition

Learn exactly which muscles you should feel and in what sequence during the golf swing tra ...

You Hit the Golf Ball with Your LEGS!!
You Hit the Golf Ball with Your LEGS!!

You hit the ball with your legs, specifically your lead leg, not your hands in RST. Learn ...

Golf Downswing, Rotary Golf Downswing Overview
Golf Downswing, Rotary Golf Downswing Overview

Mastering the setup, weight transfer and takeaway are critical to a great golf swing. But ...

Right Arm Only Downswing Drill
Right Arm Only Downswing Drill

Once you've worked with the Throw the Ball Drill, you'll want to begin mastering this much ...

Drill for Golf Downswing Sequencing
Drill for Golf Downswing Sequencing

In this video, I'll show you where you're losing power and a simple drill that'll get it b ...

5 Minutes to the Perfect Golf Downswing
5 Minutes to the Perfect Golf Downswing

All the work you've done on your RST golf swing to this point has culminated in this next ...

Golf Swing Follow Through
Golf Swing Follow Through

The follow through is a result of all things you have done in your golf swing up until thi ...

Adam Scott Driver Swing Follow Through
Adam Scott Driver Swing Follow Through

In this Adam Scott follow through video, you'll find out: 1) How Adam Scott finishes his p ...

What You Should Think Over the Golf Ball
What You Should Think Over the Golf Ball

I get asked all the time what I'm thinking over the ball. This video finally answers it - ...

Taking Your Golf Swing Drills to the Course
Taking Your Golf Swing Drills to the Course

How to take what you're doing with your golf swing drills in front of the mirror to the go ...

3 Cable-Machine Core Exercises To Add To Your Routine
3 Cable-Machine Core Exercises To Add To Your Routine

We all know how important the core is to your golf swing. But which ones are the best for ...

Pool Noodle Drill for Shoulder Elevation

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Getting just the right amount of shoulder elevation in the backswing is sometimes a bit tricky. Until now. In this video, I’ll show you a simple, step-by-step drill that’ll put you into the perfect position at the top of your swing. This drill will also help stop the pushing motion that often causes your arms to get “out of the box.” Check out this video to develop a silky smooth takeaway and backswing!

  • Elevation is a slight upward movement of the arms that helps give the club lift in the backswing
  • The hands should be at about the base of the pocket at the completion of the takeaway
  • The right elbow will be in line with the bottom of the chest at the top of the backswing

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Brandon
Can you hit balls with this drill? More specifically...can you hit balls with the lower noodle there? Or will it be bringing my hands too far in front of me? I’m currently working on 9-3 left-hand release drills...but I don’t want my takeaway/shoulder elevation work to go to poop. Wondering if I can do both at the same time basically. Thanks!
February 27, 2021
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Brandon. You may struggle with getting hands too in-front and not enough shallowing out. Not really recommended.
February 27, 2021
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Robert
Had a lesson with Chris - thx u for your help. He recommended this drill and it makes good sense to me and I'll incorporate it. My question is: what is a good model for hand depth at the top? About middle of the feet or something? Thx in advance. Love the content, really help me. Be well.
June 21, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Robert. Glad you enjoyed your lesson. Hands should be over trail shoulder/trail ankle. That is the window you are striving for.
June 22, 2020
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Robert
Genius and thx much.
June 22, 2020
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David
Hi Chris/Craig, still trying to get this right but have a tendency to either roll my wrists from the get go or having got into the position in this video i still want to roll my wrists from there and hence the backswing feels armsy and flat. I don't know why but this habit feels powerful and i do hit the ball a long way but when it goes wrong, it really goes wrong. Thanks.
April 30, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello David. Take a look at How to Fix an Inside Takeaway. Focus on maintaining the wrist cupping.
April 30, 2020
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David
Craig thanks for the quick reply. Just one other thing, if i get into the position in the video how do i stop rolling the wrists from there. I think i fear swinging too steep and always want to roll
April 30, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello David. I would have to see it. To see if it is more, wrist, forearm, or internal shoulder rotation.
May 1, 2020
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richard
i'm about 6'1, i watched the noodle drill, do i want my hands higher than the second noodle i notice in a lot of the swings the arms are higher and the back elbow points down but higher hands above head. how do i get there?
October 29, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Richard. It may not seem that way on the video. But, Chris is actually around the 6'1"-6'2" mark. You only need to elevate the arms to the base of the pectorals. The higher you go the more risk you will have disconnecting the arms from the box. Try doing it lead arm only with the Winter Golf Training Program - Backswing Video and then add the trail. Check position.
October 29, 2018
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Eric
Wow, this was really a great video. I like 4 square too, conceptually, but when I try to apply it my hands rotate in too early. This video keeps my hands outside during the takeaway and for the first time ever, my right arm just naturally drops into position, with the elbow pointing down. I have been struggling for the past two years to get rid of a flying elbow. I went to the range today and I was hitting it really well. I still hit some balls slightly left, but overall really great ball striking. When I practice the downswing release for a few moments before the swing, it magnifies the effect on my ball striking. Thank you so much. I have been just imagining the location of the pool noodles, I will be buying some this weekend. Eric
December 19, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Eric. Thanks for the compliments. Good to hear the good news. Keep up the hard work and allow those arms to work in the vertical dimension.
December 19, 2017
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Eric
Yes, life Long chicken winger. I’ll pass this on to others. Really drill the hands one inch apart, if you don’t get that right it doesn’t work. Once you have made the rotation past the first noodle, I just let my shoulder rotation take my right arm to the next noodle with elbow pointed down in line with the second noodle. Personally about my right arm flexion, it is doing it naturally after years of pulling my elbow with my shoulder horizontal to the ground. Feels great and so natural. You will notice half swings also feel loaded. THANKS.
December 26, 2017
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Gareth
Also what's a rough distance between the noodles when setting up this drill. I've tried it and found that the red noodle is set up a bit closer to the target is this correct? Rough guidelines be good thanks.
September 4, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Gareth. Aim for the blue noodle to be just inside the toes. The pink noodle just to the back of the heels, going through the glutes. Chris's feet are 6 inches inside the noodles.
September 6, 2016
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Gareth
I'm working on keeping the right arm straight after my last swing review and I see Chris mentions in this video that right elbow flexion begins at the completion of the takeaway? I had not thought of it or tried to feel it this way. I just wanted to check is it safe to say right arm (Elbow) stays straight doesn't break (Flex) until after your hands are above the first noodle?
September 4, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Gareth. Yes, the trail arm shouldn't begin to break till after the takeaway is completed.
September 6, 2016
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Joshua
Hello I feel like I can get to the first Noodle easily then I add right elbow flexion and get the correct height but my elbow doesn't reach the back noodle? Is that achieved by continuing shoulder rotation?
July 21, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Joshua. You do need to continue shoulder rotation as you add elevation and flexion.
July 21, 2016
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Jeff
What do you use to make the noodles stick in the ground. Alignment sticks etc
July 16, 2016
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Steven (Certified RST Instructor)
Jeff-Alignment sticks would work great for this drill for the noodles stand up.
July 16, 2016
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Kim
Is there a trick to using them indoors? How do you get them to stay upright?
December 22, 2018
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Kim
I just bought 2 weighted bill pins on Amazon, the sort that restaurants and places use to skewer orders
January 10, 2019
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Michael
How far should the bicep be away from the body, it has been suggested to me that they should be close like having a sponge between them or a towel.
July 6, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Michael. You don't want to glue them to your side or pinch. A little awareness of connection. Holding a sponge in place would be description.
July 6, 2016
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Michael
Many thanks I think I have had a bigger gap as I have tried to obtain width
July 6, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Michael. You need to maintain some awareness of connection. Don't try to create width by forcing the arms out and over. Keep that trail arm in the proper spot.
July 6, 2016
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Michael
Craig many thanks I'll try this out on the range.
July 6, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
No problem. That is where most people go out of bounds is trying to force width. If you have good rotation, elevation and proper trail arm flexion. You will have all the width you need.
July 6, 2016
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Michael
Hi Craig that seems to work better, I have been raising my arms too high I think getting a bit out of the box. On a separate note what are your thoughts about starting the downswing from the correct backswing position.
July 8, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Michael. Do you mean starting from a proper backswing position (at a stand still)? And, then starting down to train some of the downswing positions?
July 8, 2016
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Michael
I have been working on downswing including weight shift moves in the mirror and video which has improved. The issue is on the course, I have to consentrate very hard to achieve a reasonable swing otherwise I tend to hip spin and fade or block right usually into the rough the subconscious takes over due to years of old habits.
July 9, 2016
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Les
So my takeaway is right where it is supposed to be but when i try to elevate my right arm starts to chicken wing and I get across the line at the top. I understand how the arms are supposed to elevate but that feeling makes me feel like my arms and hands swing up to my head and then i get completely out of the box and the club is then laid off. So how do the arms work after the takeaway? Do they feel like the push away from the body or get deeper as they elevate? Thanks
July 1, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Les. The body should feel rotational (horizontally) as the arms work vertically. Use the 3 Functions of the Right Arm and the 4 Square Drill to not over elevate and create the proper blend. After the takeaway, you should feel that you keep rotating as you add elevation, flexion and external humeral rotation with the trail arm. You shouldn't have to push the arms away from the body to keep from getting deep.
July 2, 2016
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Loran
Ok, let me get this right. The blue noodle suggest the end of the takeaway, before the backswing? Then, the takeaway ends in a slant but not a straight line, like the parallel to pocket height suggests?
February 26, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Loan. Yes, the blue noodle represent the initial elevation required in the takeaway. The takeaway does in parallel to the pocket height. The noodles here are used to help train vertical motion. Not, perfect takeaway. While Chris is demonstrating if he would've allowed for a little more forearm rotation it would have synced better. But, the goal is to train the elevation from these drills. It might have taken the focus off of the intended agenda to add other components.
February 27, 2016
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Loran
In other words, the shoulder elevation is a diagonal slant? Not a straight up vertical ascent? I am trying to fold the elbow pit, but find myself doing other awkward moves? I am trying to not supinate my right arm and cause an across the line at the top of the swing?
June 29, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Loan. Shoulder elevation is vertical (4 Square Drill, Understanding Shoulder Elevation, Understanding Arm Elevation Video). The trail arm will remain in front of the body as it folds. The folding of the trail arm brings the lead arm into position.
June 29, 2016
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Dave
Can you clarify how far away from the blue noodle right foot should be please? The video suggests 6 inches but when I do that distance it feels physically impossible to rotate using my shoulder blade and right shoulder to pull, and get the hands up quick enough. The only way I feel I can is by leaning back onto the left side which is very wrong on the takeaway.
January 19, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Dave. It is about 6 inches. But, everyone has different body sizes. If you feel that you need a little more room or space you can extend it out a little further.
January 19, 2016
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Loran
This diagonal line between the two poles suggests that the takeaway is a combo of elevation and rotation? This video implies that the takeaway and elevation is more critical than completing the takeaway move alone by itself? Which is more dominant of the proper swing...elevation not to come in contact with the blue stick or the proper amount of body rotation/wrist set? In all, the takeaway is an diagonal elevator and not a separate piece independent of the backswing? Hope I am getting my point across!
September 17, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Loan. Yes, the takeaway is a blend of rotation and elevation. You need a touch of elevation to keep the club in front of your sternum. Yes, you will rotate as the arm elevate and add gradual wrist set. Arms work vertical with rotation.
September 17, 2015
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Loran
The blue noodle suggests a steeper elevation, no? Not to take the club past right pocket?
October 30, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
The blue noodle might be a touch high. But, this is helping exaggerate a little of the feel for players that have a hard time feeling enough elevation. Ideally, you are correct with the hands.
October 30, 2015
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Loran
Will this kind of steep blue noodle elevation restrict my rotation? Because it is slanted and feels far away from my right thigh? Or lead to overswing?
February 22, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Loan. It should make your rotation easier. Feeling some width from the right thigh is a good thing. Losing external humeral rotation in the right arm or over elevating would be the only cause to over swinging.
February 22, 2016
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Preston
During right arm flexion to the top of the pink noodle, do the arms continue to elevate? I have a tendency to overflex the right arm and add too much shoulder elevation according to my instructor James. So may be i should air on the side of night elevating after the takeaway and just add right arm flexion? When I do this, I feel tension below my right shoulder blade. I think my lat. Once I feel that, is that when I should make the transition?
July 25, 2015
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james (Certified RST Instructor)
Preston, the arms will elevate to pec height, the right elbow flexion provides the rest of the height through the backswing. As you were bending the right arm your arms kept elevating to the point where your right elbow sat around shoulder height. This drill will help you with the correct positioning of the right elbow, which is at pec height. The transition will be felt more with the lower body, check the load rt glute video.
July 26, 2015
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Preston
Ok, So if I am understanding correctly, the folding of the right arm should NOT occur UNTIL I have elevated my arms completely to the base of my peck?
July 26, 2015
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robert
can this drill be done correctly WITHOUT destroying width
June 29, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Robert. Yes, you should be able to maintain the exact amount of width you need in the swing.
June 29, 2015
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Loran
There is a little bit more elevation before the completion of the takeaway? Is this after the wrist cock or before?
June 2, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Loan. Elevation is gradual in the takeaway. It will feel more like you are rotating, adding elevation, and then with a little wrist set.
June 3, 2015
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richard
WILL THIS WORK WHEN TRYING TO GET A FULL ARC BACKSWING; 6" FROM NOODLE SEEMS CLOSE WHEN TRYING TO GET A FULL ARC. LO AND SLOW WON'T WORK WITH THIS METHOD.
May 23, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Richard. It should work. Slow will work, but not low. You need the little bit of gradual elevation to keep the club in front of the sternum.
May 23, 2015
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Loran
What exactly does the blue stick represent in the video? The one where you caution not to come in contact with?
May 20, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
The Blue Stick represents the amount of elevation required in the takeaway.
May 21, 2015
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Burt
Do you recommend hitting full shots with the noodles set up?
May 19, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Burt. You could try, but it might be slightly difficult. The goal of this drill is to train the new muscle awareness and learn how to elevate properly.
May 19, 2015
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Jay
I have 2 tripods I set up in front of a mirror at home, both at the right height of the noodles. I can stand 5 feet away and swing freely with a club, checking my elevation in the mirror this way. Is this method okay? Also I just thought about using tape right on the mirror for someone who doesn't have tripods.
February 11, 2015
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
Jay, yeah, you should be fine. As long as you have objects that are at the proper heights, you're okay. You don't have to use pool noodles, but the noodles are nice because they aren't going to ding up your clubs as you start to pick up the pace if you happen to hit one. R.J.
February 11, 2015
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Paul
what is the distance between the noodles
January 30, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Paul. Aim for the blue noodle to be just inside the toes. The pink noodle just to the back of the heels, going through the glutes. Chris's feet are 6 inches inside the noodles.
January 31, 2015
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Michael
Great video. I basically lined my bed post where the blue noodle would be. At first, my hands kept hitting the bed post, then elevated my arms so they stayed in front of the post. Wow, what a different feeling - more vertical - and I can feel the shoulder elevation. Previously, the shaft would be parallel to the ground before I felt elevation. Now, it appears that I'm adding elevation before the shaft gets parallel. Am I correct?
January 30, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Michael. Yes, you want to add gradual elevation as you rotate to reach the parallel to the ground position. Sounds like you are on the right track. You can also use the RST Pencil Tee Drill in the Advanced Takeaway Section to check that elevation.
January 30, 2015
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Howard
Hi. To get from the 3 o'clock position to the top of the back swing, is it mostly right arm flexion that gets the hands to the top? I know it's not pushing with the left arm.
January 19, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Howard. From Move 1 you need elevation, flexion and a little external humeral rotation to reach the top. Take a look at the 3 Functions of the Right Arm in the Advanced Downswing Section.
January 20, 2015
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TANISHKA
WHAT IS THE POSITION OF THE BACK NOODLE (PINK COLOUR)
January 8, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Tanishka. The back noodle should be just behind the heels going through the glutes.
January 8, 2015
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brandon
Chris do you still have the promotion where i can pay pal you for a certain amount of lessons - i think you had it back in August? Anyway my email is brandonmcnally76@gmail.com ill use a cc or whatever.
December 15, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Brandon -- I am not certain that we have ever offered such a thing. The options that I have posted are the standard 2 per month reviews, unlimited review group ($167.00 per month) and private lessons. If you find some info where some sort of promotion may have been offered then by all means send it over to me via email at chris@rotaryswing.com. Thanks and hope you are making some great progress on your game.
December 15, 2014
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John
This is the best video for me that explains the elevation. I can finally now see why the club was getting behind me. Great drill ! Thank you!
December 15, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Very glad to hear you enjoyed the drill John. Now get to work on that club being deep and behind you.
December 15, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey John. Great. Happy you enjoyed the video! Get to work!
December 15, 2014
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Klaus
How many inches apart are blue and pink noodles? Is there a relation to my shoulder width? Thx.
December 14, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
You are correct. The spacing depends on body size. Aim for the blue noodle to be just inside the toes. The pink noodle just to the back of the heels, going through the glutes.
December 15, 2014
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Rodolfo
It would have helped a face on view on the video. I heard you should stand 6 inches from noodle but seems in the vid that the blue noodle is closer to Chris's right foot. Also how many inches apart blue and pink noodles are?. Should you introduce left arm rotation on the drills (to get the plane right)?
October 21, 2014
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
How far away you are from the pool noodles is determined by how long your takeaway is and if you're doing it properly, the only thing that determines the length of your takeaway is the length of your arms. So, you'll have to play around with it until you get it just right for you and how long your arms are. R.J.
October 22, 2014
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John
Toward the end of this video, if you examine your hands in the swing while holding the club in light of the "bucket drill", it would appear that you would be spilling water out of the bucket. I'm trying to reconcile these two drills.
October 14, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello John. Chris's right hand does get a little on top. He does require a little more rotation. However, when the club is flipped around the weight of the heel-toe balanced head isn't there to help get the rotation. You will want it more like the bucket drill. Nice and level hands.
October 15, 2014
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Alan
Many thanks, Rusty. I'll give that a go. Best wishes, Alan
October 11, 2014
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
You're welcome, sir and thank you for the wishes.
October 11, 2014
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Alan
Hi Chris, I really enjoyed this video and I am having some success with the techniques. However, where I struggle is when/where/how to introduce shoulder elevation in the backswing. Consequently, more often than not, I am too low with my club head when parallel to the target line and usually end up wth too flat a swing plane. I note in the video (down the line shot) that you raise and lower your arms but you can't do that when addressing the ball!! Can you tell me when during the backswing I elevate both arms?? Thank you, Alan
October 10, 2014
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
Also, Alan, the arms are elevated by the deltoid muscles which cover the shoulder joints. So, take a weight or a theraband, if you're using the theraband step on one end and hold the other in your hand, and raise your arm directly out in front of you like you were going to shake someone's hand. This resistance will allow you to feel the muscles responsible for elevating the arms the backswing thus, you can know how to activate them to get proper elevation in your backswing.
October 11, 2014
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
Alan, great question! You're actually slowly elevating your arms all the way until the moment of right elbow flexion. Here are the check points, for almost all body types, your hands and the club will be at your pocket or belt level (or about an inch below your belly button) when the club is parallel to the ground. If you're getting parallel to the ground prior to that height, one of two things are happening. You're either not elevating at all or you're setting your wrists way too much, too quickly. Both of these result in low and flat swing planes. You'll have to check the angle of your wrists and the height of your hands to determine which is causing the issue. The second check point is that your arms should be raised to the bottom of your pectoral muscle (Nipple level, not sure if we're allowed to say nipple though) by the time you turn your back to the target, then you fold your elbow from there and rotate a little more to complete the 90 degree turn. If you notice, those two noodles are set just below those check point heights. If you clear the noodles (providing they're setup properly) then you are elevating your hands enough and quickly enough in the backswing. So, focus on going from point A to point B and then from point B to point C in a consistent rate of elevation and you'll have a nice, smooth backswing. I hope this helped, Alan. Rusty
October 11, 2014
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Lee
I think i've got my posture maintained throughout now, though I do feel like my right arm is disconnecting from the body too much when I try to get shoulder elevation, is this common?
September 16, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Lee. The right arm will come away from your side. The key is not too allow it to swing behind the body. Make sure you keep it in front and the connection between the upper bicep and pectoral stays close.
September 16, 2014
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Lee
Thanks Craig, I will go back and view some of the videos and try and relate this to what you mentioned about not swinging behind the body and keeping the connection. Thanks again.
September 16, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Lee. Use the 3 Functions of the Right Arm in the Advanced Backswing Section to help with the connection.
September 16, 2014
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Lee
Here is the top of my backswing when trying to get elevation: http://cl.ly/image/0N1C3f250R08 and here it is normally: http://cl.ly/image/0s2c1N2E0B0P Would appreciate any pointers etc, I feel like I lose the connection too much when going for increased elevation.
September 16, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
The key is to see less right bicep. Use the 3 Functions Video and the 5 Mins to the Perfect Backswing in the Backswing Section to rotate and not move the arms independently too much across the chest. With your arms in front of you (drill position). Rotate back without adding arm swing across the chest.
September 16, 2014
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Lee
Brilliant, I will go watch that video now.
September 16, 2014
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Lee
Hi Chris, I was recommended this video after my second swing review, apparently I am not quite getting enough shoulder elevation. The problem is, when I try to get some more elevation I seem to come out of my posture more and the synchronisation of the swing in general seems 'out'. I am getting good results with my swing, I just wondered if getting more shoulder elevation might cause any issues with posture etc?
September 11, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Lee. You might be lifting the body instead of the arms. I definitely don't want you losing you posture. If you physically are unable to get more, that is ok. Nevertheless, try the Drill in the Understanding Shoulder Elevation Video in the Backswing Section. See if you can train not to lose the spine angle.
September 12, 2014
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Lester
Hello Chris, I've been working (with Mr. Ritson) on fixing the right elbow and maintaining the 'tush line' for the last two weeks, and I added the "pool noodle" drill - thinking it would help produce a correct takeaway and top of swing position. I now find that my ball flight is predominantly going to the RIGHT. Before, I had a "pull" ball flight. Suggestions?
September 5, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Lester. Its hard to tell what could be causing the issue from the points that you are working on. Tell your instructor during your next review. I'm sure he will spot the difference and help you get the flight straightened out.
September 5, 2014
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Lester
Thanks, Craig. I'll do that the next time I submit a video for analysis and review.
September 5, 2014
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Grant
Hi Chris, How far apart are you spacing the noodles, approximately 1 foot ? Also are you setting up right next to the shorter noodle with your right foot or 6'' away from it? I'm assuming my toes need to be on an imaginary line down the line from the shorter one. Thank you. Grant
August 23, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
The spacing depends on body size. Aim for the blue noodle to be just inside the toes. The pink noodle just to the back of the heels, going through the glutes. Chris's feet are 6 inches away.
August 24, 2014
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Marion
Thanks Chris! We're going to have fun with this, because I think I will finally get my questions addressed and not be out in the twilight zone as I have been for some time. The reason you saw a deep position from me in the backswing is because the only other instructor I've worked with (he comes highly recommended by the scratch players at my club) saw me trying to get a higher position going back and said that I was only lifting the club and that was a very weak move going back. He wanted to see me "torqing" my move back so that I can wind up and store power to release it. And yes, that meant a rotation with the body through the strike as I hung on to the club and swung to the left after impact. Of course, I do this because I'm coachable if nothing else--I will work at something until I get it--and lo and behold, after some weeks of this my left hip hurts pretty constantly. So that compelled me, once I saw that these unlimited reviews came back open, to sign up with your and just hash this all out. From the position going back that y'all teach, how do I get speed? From what I understand, it comes through a proper release. But how can I achieve the proper release while creating some shaft lean and compression? And how can I do this without producing the strain on my hip? You may have caught me at the perfect time, because I've got so much info in my head from reputable sources, and I know there must be way for me to learn properly. For all my confusion there is no way I can be a single digit handicapper unless I have some ability, some potential to play this game the way it ought to be played. And the window is not as open as it was; I'm getting close to 59, and the highest swing speed with a driver I've ever produced is around 103-105 mph. So believe me, I am so motivated to get better, get out of my own way and play some solid golf! Here ends the rant....
August 5, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Marion, glad you found this drill useful for sure. We want the hands to be a bit higher in the air for several reasons. We can use gravity in the downswing from a higher position to help increase speed and not have to spin the life out of the body to make room for the hands and arms to pass in front. Shoulder elevation is a variable and some players want to put more elevation in to use the body even less. Look at Davis Love, he has a ton of elevation in his swing so that he can use the body less in the downward move. He is now 50 and has one of the highest recorded swing speeds on tour this year at 128mph!!!!! You can also use the elevation to your advantage to help create downcock with much more ease. That can help you maintain more of an angle for lag down into the hitting area. When the hands and arms are deep, it is hard to get them back out in front without pushing them, which can lead to loss of the angle. We still want to use the body to build up power in both the backswing and the downswing, but it is more critical to protect the body and make sure your load and unload of the lower half and rotation of the torso are done correctly. We will protect the hips by making sure you do not pass NJA in the downward move and put a ton of stress on the outer portion of the hip girdle. I am looking forward to having you in my group and will make sure we get you to a good spot with your swing. If you ever find that you have questions directly related to what you and I are working on, feel free to re-submit a video and post the questions in there and I will go through it with you. That is the beauty of the unlimited review process.
August 6, 2014
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hubert
Chris, would like to know how far from the pool noodles do you stand? Also what are you using to get the noodles to stand up? Great video.
June 17, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Hubert. His feet are 6 inches away. He is using alignment rods pushed through them for standing purposes.
June 17, 2014
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Barry
Hey Chris, Love this video. I'm confident it will cure my shocking horrible take away. what are you using to anchor the noodles to the ground? Thanks for your help. Barry
June 12, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Barry. Chris used alignment rods pushed into the noodle, then into the ground.
June 12, 2014
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mike
Chris, How far apart are the pink & blue noodle from each other and are you feet 6'" from the blue noodle? It look like your toes are almost touching the blue noodle.
June 7, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
The spacing depends on body size. Aim for the blue noodle to be just inside the toes. The pink noodle just to the back of the heels, going through the glutes. Chris's feet are 6 inches away. I can see how it would look like he was closer. Good trick photography.
June 7, 2014
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Ryan
Oops sorry Chris scratch that my cell didn't load all the comments and now I see the perefct answer!!!!
May 20, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Ok good, glad you found the solution. Let me know if you need any further help.
May 21, 2014
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Ryan
Hey Chris great stuff as always and I was scanning thru the comments looking to see if this could be answered but was unable to find a clear answer. As per me I'm a stickler for absolute perfect positons for ME and my swing!!!! I wish we had a Face On camera view so as I could get an exact idea as to where we want to position the noodles. I know you say 6 inches inside the small one but if we were Face on would the big and small be in a direct line. So really could you just elaborate a little bit for me as to postioning the noodles in perfect position for each individual??? Of course you can't see everyones body so just clear up how far back and in each noodle should be!!!! Thanks Keep up the great Stuff!!!
May 20, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Ryan, thanks for the kind words and glad to see you found you answer.
May 21, 2014
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Sam
This video is excellent! In 45 years of playing no one has ever talked about elevation, yet it makes so much sense! How have other viewers anchored the belt height noodle (1) into the ground ? The second noodle is easy, because it is taller than a normal alignment rob, but the first is shorter. Fiberglass rods are not the easiest to cut without splintering ... If you have any ideas, I'm all ears.
May 15, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Sam, the shorter alignment rod I had to push way down into the ground. Obviously that is not going to be easy with different surfaces. You could possible have a steel shaft cut to the length that you need as that would be easier to cut for sure.
May 15, 2014
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Sam
Thanks Chris & Dan for your ideas !
May 16, 2014
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Dan
Here is what I did. I bought two wooden paper towel holders. The kind that you place on the table. This way I can do this drill at home or in my cubicle at work. Here is a picture of one. I found a cheap one that did not have a ball on top so I can easily slide the noodle on. Even if you buy a wooden like this, you can cut off the top so the noodle can slide on. http://photos.tradeholding.com/attach/hash24/15896/jd_n104.jpg
May 15, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Great stuff Dan! Thanks for sharing that for the members to see. I have seen some pretty interesting setups so far. hahah
May 16, 2014
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Dan
What is the distance between the two noodles? Or is there some other key that determines that distance?
May 1, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
The best way to set it up is get the takeaway noodle in the ground first. Then stand with the toes right to the front 6" inside of it. Go into golf posture and elevate the right arm only to where the elbow is at the bottom of the pec, then flex the right arm to 90 degrees and hold it. Then rotate all the way to the top of the swing (big shoulder turn) and put the noodle right underneath the right elbow. It can be slightly different for each person but that is the best way to set it up for sure.
May 1, 2014
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Dan
Excellent. Thanks again, Chris.
May 1, 2014
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Mark
I am a little confused about the lift portion in conjunction with the spine tilt to keep from the reverse pivot. I guess I am thinking too much but, in trying to use the big muscles of the body in the take away and keeping the right arm as straight and as long as possible to clear the first noodle it would seem that i have to use the arms to lift up which seems to make sense. I guess my question is in the transition from the take away until you lift how far is that? I have a problem of coming back too low and a flat plane which I am trying to correct.
April 29, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Shoulder elevation should be a gradual move during the entire takeaway and entire backswing. Always make sure that you have your rotation spot on first and then when you work a drill like this, focus first on rotation and then a slight bit of elevation into the takeaway and then continue to focus on elevation as you add flexion and elevation into the backswing. Rotation always comes first. REF! Rotation-elevation-flexion
April 29, 2014
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Loran
Should not the first concern be not swaying the hips in the takeaway and creating a stable base for proper hips rotation and torso?
September 17, 2015
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Mark
Thanks for the reply.
April 30, 2014
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Greg
Best backswing video ever. Simple and perfect visuals. Thank you. Would like to see similar type videos for downswing.
April 28, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Thanks Gregory! We have some really exciting content coming out this summer. Stay tuned.
April 29, 2014
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nathan
Awesome drill! And the cheap training aids show great feedback at the reference points.
April 26, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Glad you like it.
April 26, 2014
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Carver
I spend more time on swing plane than anything else and offer the following: 1) In CQ's Trace The Plane Line video, the aid he uses is on plane with the shaft that goes roughly through the belt buckle. I have studied TW's DTL swing and drawn that line and his club head traces that line briefly before moving up more vertically. It never stays on that line up the entire back swing which would get the club very deep. 2) Clay had advocated tracing the line from the hozel through the elbows. When TW's swing is viewed with this line, the club head stays on this plane line almost to the very top. Same swing just different lines. All this is consistent with CQ's swing. 3) I was confused on where to actually place the swing plane aids in reference to my stance. This is absolutely key to tracing the plane. It is not fully explained in CQ's swing plane video and I asked Clay to clarify, which he did. Perhaps he should share that with everyone. 4) Chris, what you demonstrate is consistent with both CQ's video and Clays plane through the elbows. The key is proper placement of the plane sticks or noodles and then trace the line correctly, depending on which one you use. Your drill makes it easy.
April 25, 2014
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lonnie
Where is Chucks plane line drill? I didnt find that video.
April 25, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Lonnie, Dean is probable mentioning the creating a swing plane video or trace the plane line which is dedicated to the downswing section
April 26, 2014
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Dean (Certified RST Instructor)
it appears this drill would have you take the club back to far outside. I like Chucks Plane Line drill better!
April 25, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
This is a just a reference point drill as the function of shoulder elevation is quite often misunderstood around the site. The whole point of the drill is too lay out some reference points for the gradual movement of elevation in the swing. Chucks plane line drill is great as well, no doubt about it. When stand about 6" inside of the takeaway noodle with your toes to the front of it, you will not be taking the club out side by any means when getting the hands over the first noodle. That would actually have you moving the club up the plane beautifully barring you didnt have some sort of crazy right wrist hinge.
April 25, 2014
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John
That is a great video! I have been practising the take away but thought the elevation came at the end of the back swing when the arms raise. This shows that I need to elevate my arms during the takeaway which I didn't realise before. I've got the noodles,now I need to set them up and try this.
April 25, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Glad you like it John and glad we were able to pass along some clarity on elevation during the swing.
April 25, 2014
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Bob
I'm unclear as to 'keeping the right arm straight for more turn,' and right arm flexion? Do we flex the right arm on purpose or does it happen naturally when attempting to keep the right arm 'straight' in the backswing to achieve width. Thank you.
April 24, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Right arm flexion will need to happen at the completion of the takeaway to move the club into the vertical plane. Keeping the right arm straight to turn is addressing those players that collapse the arc very early with the right arm breaking, which in turn creates momentum in the clubhead and then shuts down the rotation in the shoulder line. You will need to make some conscious flexion of the right arm at first.
April 25, 2014
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rick
That's a really easy way to ingrain takeaway and shoulder elevation! I'm buying some pool noodles tomorrow.
April 24, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Awesome Rick. Glad you found it useful
April 25, 2014
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carl
Aren't you too steep at the top of this video?
April 24, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Carl, I really just wanted to show how to set up some reference points in regards to elevation. We have a lot of students that know where the height of the elbow needs to be at the top of the swing and this drill is really geared towards reference points to make it a gradual process. it wouldn't have looked as steep had i rotated fully but that wasnt the goal of the video this time.
April 25, 2014

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