Webinar 1: The Core
Webinar 1: The Core

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Larry's Lesson Part 2

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Our premium golf training program for winter months

Proper Muscle Activation
Proper Muscle Activation

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

Golf Grip Checkpoint Tips
Golf Grip Checkpoint Tips

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Gorilla Grip
The Gorilla Grip

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

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

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

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

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

Phase 1 Follow Along
Phase 1 Follow Along

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Golf Impact Position Face On
Golf Impact Position Face On

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

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

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

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

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

Left Elbow Position at Impact
Left Elbow Position at Impact

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Overview of the Push Release
Overview of the Push Release

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

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

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

Weight Shift Sweep Drills
Weight Shift Sweep Drills

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Step 1 - Weight Shift
Step 1 - Weight Shift

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

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

Step 1 - Weight shift drills

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

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

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

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

How Attack Angle Affects Compression
How Attack Angle Affects Compression

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

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

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

Angle of Attack
Angle of Attack

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Phase 2 Follow Along
Phase 2 Follow Along

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

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

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

Getting Stuck on the Downswing
Getting Stuck on the Downswing

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

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

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

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

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

2 Finger Release Drill
2 Finger Release Drill

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

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

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

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

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

Square the Clubface Early
Square the Clubface Early

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

Hitting a Fade
Hitting a Fade

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

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

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

Hitting a Draw
Hitting a Draw

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

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

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

Phase 3 Follow Along
Phase 3 Follow Along

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

5 Minutes to Master Rotation
5 Minutes to Master Rotation

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Using the Core
Using the Core

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

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

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

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

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

Step 2 - Core Rotation
Step 2 - Core Rotation

Step 2- Adding body rotation

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

The drill only for Step 2 - Body Rotation

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

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

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

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

Closed Hip Slide
Closed Hip Slide

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

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

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

Losing the Tush Line
Losing the Tush Line

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

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

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

Squeeze the Cheeks for Consistency
Squeeze the Cheeks for Consistency

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Over the Top Stick Drill
Over the Top Stick Drill

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Producing incredible lag has never been this easy - or fast

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sklz Gold Flex Lag Trainer
Sklz Gold Flex Lag Trainer

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

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

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

Lag and Speed Drills
Lag and Speed Drills

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

Key to Creating Lag
Key to Creating Lag

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

Downcock Pump Lag Drill
Downcock Pump Lag Drill

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

AXIOM Introduction
AXIOM Introduction

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

The AXIOM Golf Video
The AXIOM Golf Video

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

AXIOM and the DEAD Drill
AXIOM and the DEAD Drill

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

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

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

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

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

AXIOM in Jessica Korda
AXIOM in Jessica Korda

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

AXIOM in Jon Rahm
AXIOM in Jon Rahm

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

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

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

My Golf Power Secret
My Golf Power Secret

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tim Burke - Kinetic Chain
Tim Burke - Kinetic Chain

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

Golf Takeaway | Overview
Golf Takeaway | Overview

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

AXIOM Refine Your Takeaway
AXIOM Refine Your Takeaway

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

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

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

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

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

Understanding Shoulder Blade Glide
Understanding Shoulder Blade Glide

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

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

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

Right Wrist in the Takeaway
Right Wrist in the Takeaway

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Golf Swing Takeaway & Drills
Golf Swing Takeaway & Drills

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

AXIOM Body Backswing
AXIOM Body Backswing

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

AXIOM Refine Your Backswing
AXIOM Refine Your Backswing

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

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

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

Left Shoulder Push in Backswing
Left Shoulder Push in Backswing

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

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

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

My Golf Backswing Secrets
My Golf Backswing Secrets

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

How Much Shoulder Elevation
How Much Shoulder Elevation

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

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

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

Understanding Arm Elevation
Understanding Arm Elevation

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

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

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

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

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

Right Arm Backswing Drill
Right Arm Backswing Drill

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Golf Swing Transition Drill

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Most instructors consider the transition in the golf swing the most difficult, if not impossible, aspect to teach. When you understand the underlying biomechanics and purpose of the movements, it makes it simple to break it down into the RST learning program that will allow you to revolutionize your golf swing transition in just a couple weeks of doing these drills.

  • Learning the correct sequence of golf swing transition & the downswing is 99 percent of the swing
  • Start with the Downcock Drill - go to the top, pause, downcock to bring the club in
  • Bring your hands to your right thigh with the club parallel to the ground & the face slightly shut
  • Start with arms only then add in the club, held upside down
  • With the club held normally, pause at each step to check form
  • Next, go through entire sequence smoothly, but very slowly

One of the most common aspects of the golf swing that golfers mess up is the transition from the backswing to the downswing.

What golfers don't understand is that they think that if they swing really fast and hard from the top, by the time they get to impact they'll have a lot of speed.

But the exact opposite is actually usually true.

Learning the sequence of the transition and the sequence of the downswing, and the technique of impact, the proper positions is really 99% of the golf swing.

If you can sequence everything correctly and get into the proper impact alignments, you can play great golf, hit the ball a long ways with no effort and enjoy the game for the rest of your life.

If you don't take the time to learn to sequence everything correctly, you will struggle forever.

You will flip the ball.

You will hit it very high and weak.

You'll scoop it.

You'll never take a divot.

You'll never compress the ball.

And that's really one of the most enjoyable parts of the game of golf if we're honest.

I'm a decent putter.

I don't love putting.

Don't really love chipping.

I'm okay at all of those things, but I love the feeling of a compressed golf ball.

And if you learn how to go through the sequence correctly, you will be able to do that perhaps for the first time ever, especially if you keep working on the impact alignments.

So this is a very, very important video.

Here's what we're going to do.

In order to sequence this correctly, you're going to have to go through the same mundane tasks that my students do, Which is hitting a lot of quarter and half and three quarter shots.

To learn to master the sequencing and the timing of it in order before you ever move up to a full swing.

So here's what you've got to understand.

You're going to work through things very, very slowly at first and very chunky and in clunky steps at first in order to be able to do the moves correctly.

Then we'll build up to full speed.

So here's how it works.

At the top of the swing, you're going to go to the top and pause just like we always do.

Now what you're going to do is you're going to add the piece that we've already worked on, the down cock drill, right?

Shift to the left, wrist is going to bend back, club comes in narrow close to the right shoulder.

From there, the next piece is bringing your hands to your right thigh.

If your hands get to your right thigh and the club shaft is still parallel to the ground, you have all the lag in the world that you possibly need to hit a good shot.

If you get down to your right thigh and the club is like this, and you've lost the angle between your right wrist and the club.

Shaft is no longer parallel to the ground, or it's parallel the ground out here.

As you start down, you're in trouble.

You're going to be scooping it and flipping it for the rest of your life.

So in order to avoid that, we're going to down cock and shift, pull the hands to the thigh, and then work on our impact alignments and release.

What you want to feel if you're really, really struggling with this and you've always casted the club from the top because you spin your body coming through, it's the most common cause because what you're doing when you rotate your body is you're creating centripetal force.

And because of that, there's going to be an opposite and equal effect on the other side, which is going to be centrifugal force.

And that means if you spin your body fast, the club is going to want to be thrown out.

By the time you get to impact, you're scooping and flipping.

So as you're doing this, you're going to keep your upper body and even your hips for many hip spinners feeling like they're shut.

So as I do that, notice that my left shoulder is very low.

It's not working up and out like this.

My left shoulder is low.

I've got a lot of lag and then I can release the club.

What you're going to feel if you really struggle with maintaining lag is that you're going to forget about the right thigh.

And you're going to think about getting the back of your left hand to the pant seam on your left thigh.

So your left arm is basically vertical to the ground.

So now you've got a nice right angle here, 90 degree angle, the club shaft is still parallel to the ground.

If you're a better player, You don't want to work on getting your hands that far ahead unless you want to hit just a ridiculously low shot.

Because you're going to also start getting to the point where you can't release the club face.

And so you block it out to the right a little bit when your hands get too far forward.

A better player learned how to sequence it and you're in this position, you just need to start releasing the club.

But if you're someone who's really, really struggled with casting the club and you've never been able to get rid of that, you're going to sequence down cock to the right, to the left thigh and then release it.

So it's going to feel a little bit more exaggerated for you.

The one thing I want to point out from down the line is that as you're coming down, we want to start making sure that that club face is squaring early and that squaring the club face video, squaring the club face early video.

And so as we come down at our checkpoint here at this right thigh, you want to feel that that club face is slightly shut.

In other words, this would be toe up, that's square, this would be wide open, we're going to have to flip that one.

So at this point, if my club face is slightly shut, there's going to be very little rotation coming through the hitting area where you want as minimal timing as possible.

The more open your face is, the more you've got to flip it and try and learn to time that and slam it shut.

If it's a little bit shut, As you come through, the club face is going to be rotating relatively slowly.

And that means you're not going to have to work to time a flip so aggressively.

So as you work into hitting shots with this, at first you want to work on just doing it without a golf club or flip the club upside down.

Go to the top, shift and down cock, pull your hands down.

As you get comfortable with that and you start working with a club, then what you want to do is start going through the clunkiness of it and that is going through piece by piece and pausing at each step.

So we're going to shift and down cock, pause, right thigh, pause, hit the ball, pause, checking our steps along the way every single time.

So at first, my students hit the ball maybe 10 -15 yards, then they slowly start adding up.

From there, they can start adding a little bit more timing and sequence to it to glue it all together, but for the first half hour they may only be able to do this, this, and this and hit a lot of half shots until that's done perfectly.

Once that's done correctly, then we start going through the whole thing very, very slowly, Still pausing at the top and then sequence everything very slowly.

And then we can start to put some speed into it, and then we can start to get some real speed into it.

So work through it really, really slowly.

Feel like you start down really slow and gradual, working on the technique and the sequencing.

And you'll find yourself in positions that you've never even dreamed.

Possible in a very short period of time.

Must be Premium Member to Comment

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Mehul
Hello, Love the video and site. You mention the video where you talk about 'squaring the club face early'. I can't find that video. Could you please share the link? Thank you! M
February 24, 2024
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Mehul. Type "Square" in the search box. It will be the first one to populate.
February 26, 2024
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Stefan
Hi Craig, In my last swing review you noted that I rush to the post while my arms and hands are still high. Which drill(s) and/or videos would you recommend to improve my sequence? Best regards, Stefan
July 26, 2023
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Stefan. The one above would help your sequence. Also, Play the Best Golf of Your Life in 6 Weeks 4 of 6, DEAD Drill 5, You Don't Pull the Butt End of the Club Towards the Ball Live Lesson.
July 26, 2023
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Matthew
Thanks for the good review Craig! Gonna work on this stuff for 2-3 weeks or so and get another one
March 19, 2021
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Great Matthew. Get to work!
March 22, 2021
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Callie
I was suggested this video from a review; no problems in about 1,000 reps on this drill in a mirror. However, when I swing I still lose about 45° of lag at my trail leg which seems to be from an over active or an early release/slight flip of my right hand (as well as a left miss). This has been an issue for my entire lifetime in golf, so it is deeply ingrained with my timing. I’ve filmed a left hand only swing and retained the appropriate lag (with terrible contact). Where is the best place to start retraining the right hand to release properly.
February 10, 2021
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Callie
Also, I saw a reply on a video in which Craig goes into his warm up routine. Insight on that would also be great.
February 10, 2021
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Bryan
I'm just getting to the transition in my training. Should i be focusing on this video, or the squat to square? Thank you
August 6, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Bryan. DEAD Drill 2 and Squat to Square would be best. This is more to help once you have the trail hand on the club and working on lag/delivery.
August 7, 2020
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Kyaw Thet
Hi, I am confused about the downcock part. In this video, it seems like the arms are active to cause the downcock, but in the DEAD Drill step 5, the arms are passive as I understand.
June 27, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Kyaw. This is an exaggeration. Lag is a byproduct of a proper move. Some players need to feel a little more to help get over the hump.
June 27, 2020
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Rich
Hi Craig, directed here by you from the Facebook group. Couple of questions: 1. Is Chucks left hand getting cupped here in the shift and downcock bit? It looks like from this FO angle but want to check as that doesn’t seem right. 2. At 5:49 when he is doing it slowly, holy bejebus his club face has rolled so much that it’s facing the ground! Is this the same motion to drill? 3. The downcock aspect I find very tense and tiring in the traps - normal? Thanks
June 16, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Rich. For excessive lag the lead wrist will cup. You don't need that much however. I would rather you leave it flat. Don't worry about the downcock for you swing per se. He also exaggerated the release. I want more for your swing around 3:20 to be the feeling.
June 16, 2020
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John
Is the post-up in this drill before or during the release of the club?
April 22, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello John. The post up triggers the release. Chuck is doing it a little slower and much more chunky. You should finish the post up just prior to impact. Shift and posted by the time hands are at the trail thigh when chunking.
April 22, 2020
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James
Worked on this more today Craig and this is about the best I have achieved. I did this by only doing a three quarter swing. I find when I try to get my shoulders at 90 deg I tend to lose control and harder to stop that lead leg of mine bending at impact. I must admit I am in a bit of a quandary. Do I go for less than a full shoulder turn and get the lag and lean stronger or go for the full turn but less lag and lean. The other thing is with the three quarter swing my speed is lower than when I go for the full turn.
April 19, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello James. How you put Rotation, Width and Leverage together in Rotary is a option (3 power sources - How to Maintain Speed as You Get Older Video). Lag is the ultimate multiplier of force in the swing. I would like to have the best of both worlds. But, leverage is a much easier option for speed than adding more rotation. Chuck did somewhat the same thing when his neck was injured. Opted to use more leverage than rotation to take pressure off the cervical spine to not forgo any of his distance.
April 20, 2020
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James
(3 power sources - How to Maintain Speed as You Get Older Video) Been trying to find this video Craig but no luck, can you please give me a definitive link to it? Many thanks James
April 20, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello James. The name is: How to Maintain Club Head Speed as You Get Older. This exactly in the search box will work.
April 20, 2020
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James
I am trying to get my head around this Craig; I assume by leverage you are referring to shaft lean. I must admit in trying to make sure I get that lead hip out of the way, does put more strain on my lead leg and after a session of working on my swing doing that does leave my femur area feeling sore and usually takes me about a couple of hours rest with my leg up for it to subside. It is the same if I strive to achieve that 90 deg turn going back, the action of my lead leg bending more down towards the ball is not easy. If I let the lead heel lift Jack Nicklaus manner does help. It is really that movement towards target that is key for me. Should I make it more rotational or a bit more laterally before starting to get that lead heel pushing into the ground to get the lead hip clear for the hands and arms to swing through?
April 20, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello James. With leverage I am referring to lag. You are maintaining the lag deeper into the downswing instead of firing the angle too soon. This is help you get to the proper impact position. If you step like Jack the move needs to be a combination of both lateral and rotational. You wouldn't want to get into a closed hip slide.
April 20, 2020
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James
In addition to what I have said here, if in conjunction of pushing into the ground with my lead heel as I go into squat to square, I feel my lead glute stretch and turn it opposite away from target it definitely helps me post up my lead leg better. If you like that idea I will work more on it as by focusing more on the glute engagement tends to put less strain on that femur.
April 20, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello James. Focus on those glutes!
April 20, 2020
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James
OK I understand that OK and yes it is a combination of lateral and rotational movement and that does help me get into that better finish at the top. I have looked at that other video "How to Maintain Club Head Speed as You Get Older" and added some comments and a capture that I would appreciate your views on what I have asked on it. Many thanks James.
April 20, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello James. Will take a look for you. I figured you'd seen the video before.
April 20, 2020
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James
Managed to work on this late this evening and think I am making some progress. Not shown here, my backswing was wider and with the arms parallel to the ground still going back, the shaft was not quite perpendicular, allowing me to get wider. I have noted something in Chucks swing in the analysis as he gets to impact that I am going to work on, plus think I need a little bit of increased spine angle at setup, just a tad. The thing I was working on here is as I was getting to the top of really pushing that lead heel into the ground to try and get that lead hip going back and clearing more. Further to this I am also working on on feeling a firmness on the back my lead forearm, including the back of my wrist, as I come into and through the ball since I did this later on in my study. I have drawn that line in the area I am talking about. What do you think?
April 19, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello James. Lead leg is cleaner and release looks free. It is improved over the version I saw in the last review.
April 20, 2020
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James
Got out today and worked on this shaft lean. I have experimented narrowing the stance width but found when I did this in a full swing I found it hard to hold my balance. So went back to my normal width. I was getting good shaft lean but I was not getting that nice high finish as below. What I tried to maintain was a feeling of leaning into the lead side as I reached the top of the backswing. It produced a good shaft lean but I was very unhappy with the finish, as I was short arming myself at the top.
April 12, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello James. It would be hard to tell without video. I really don't care what the finish looks like. More of a diagnostic tool on my end. My question is after narrowing the stance you lost balance when swinging, or balance because of physical limitations?
April 13, 2020
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James
It was when swinging the club I became overbalanced. When I slightly widened my stance as shown here I was able to maintain it. I did like the back swing OK and transition but did not get my arms fully releasing as I did as shown with the one in my black jumper alongside Chucks finish. In that swing I felt that the club released away from me and it was the club that pulled me through into the finish shown. The finish I had in the above swing is shown here, with the arms pulling in.
April 13, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello James. Mostly balance is lost in the swing because of push. If you can't maintain balance with proper stance. Usually indicative of adding push somewhere at the wrong time. Probably used more trail side on this release to finish there.
April 13, 2020
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James
OK I'll work on more of what you are saying here. All being well in the next couple of days I will up videos for review. BTW, this was my local town of Tenby, which is the top spot to visit in Wales on Bank Holiday Monday today. Normally this High Street would be jam packed with visitors, so our stay at home is working here.
April 13, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello James. Looks so quiet. An almost peaceful, but eerie sensation.
April 13, 2020
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James
This is the comparison with Chuck's finish.
April 7, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello James. Good stuff!
April 7, 2020
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James
Been comparing my finish with what I did a couple of days ago with the swing finish on the 22nd March, two weeks ago. Also comparing with Chuck's finish as well and do like the improvement. Been busy the last couple of days helping my wife with some work in the driveway so still not had the time yet to check it out in the net trying the slightly narrower stance. I continue working on the shortened swing indoors, specifically focusing on the last three fingers of the left (lead) hand.
April 7, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello James. Finish is much better. Clean. The finish is a byproduct of all that came before it. If you look better here, then something before hand must be on a better track.
April 7, 2020
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James
I have started a fresh comment as I did not want to complicate the already extended one below. Craig I think this about as far as I can go to get that lead leg posted up. Doing this is not affecting me too much. What changed from yesterday is I gave myself just a tad more time to change direction at the top of the backswing. (A) it helped me gave me just that bit more time for a forward shift, (B) allowed me to drop my hands more vertically. Another plus, although not shown here, there was a more one piece takeaway. Would have liked to shown the finish with the high hands over the head but think I have put enough captures here already.
April 5, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello James. Great. I understand more of your issue with the lead leg now and can gear my brain towards how best we can make everything work. I think what you've done so far is a huge improvement. Can you check your stance width for me? If we can narrow it up slightly you won't have to work so hard with the legs to get the weight moving a proper positioning. It's called a transition for a reason. You need that split second to start going the other direction.
April 5, 2020
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James
Thanks for your consideration Craig. I have checked my stance width with the 8 iron and currently it is 15" measuring the distance between the heels. Taking aboard RST's neutral joint alignment with hips in vertical alignment with the knees and ankles that gap is 10". Looking at "Get in neutral joint alignment: Line up centre of hips, knees, and ankles", I will re-check this again later, am I right in thinking that makes the approximate width should be 14" based on 2 x 2" outside the centre of ankles? My height is a tad over 6 foot.
April 6, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello James. That width varies greatly from person to person. It would be tough for me to approximate the distance for you. Technically, your numbers would be correct. But, I don't have my hands on you .
April 6, 2020
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James
I accept that Craig, so will experiment say reducing my heel width down by an inch, from 15" to 14" and see how that goes. Have to say the weather over here in Pembrokeshire remains pleasant. Not overly warm at around 12 degrees but dry and mostly sunny. If I do some 3D printing of me perhaps you can check it out )
April 6, 2020
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James
When I do this drill Craig, I find when I get to the shaft level with the ground, the butt of the club is level with the inside of my right thigh, with the hands covering my right leg. However, my club face is more closed than what even Chuck shows. With the face say upright is 90 deg, I am getting about 30 deg closed at this point. Could you give some clarification at this point please.
April 2, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello James. If not a grip issue, then you are squaring the face too much to that point. I would take the trail arm off and see if it shuts down that much doing it lead arm only. We can work form there to find the culprit. Whether trail arm, or lead arm issue.
April 2, 2020
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James
Have done this drill just with the left arm and it is about the same. Attached a photo I took when the shaft is parallel to the ground, it looks close to the ground but is not. At this point my left hand is covering my right leg, The angle of the face shown here is the same when I use both arms.
April 2, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello James. It can be toe up, or slightly toed down. Just like the Squaring the Face Video, or the Release Video Chuck posted on Youtube the other day. That seem a few degrees too much. I would check grip, and/or not steepening the plane with forearm rotation too soon.
April 2, 2020
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James
I have double checked my grip in front of a mirror and can see 2.5 knuckles. Regarding plane I tried a slightly shallower plane in the downswing and that did improve it. The face was just very slightly closed, also at impact the dynamic loft was not as severe as it was before. Will try working in the net possibly on Saturday as Veronica has some work earmarked for me tomorrow (BG).
April 2, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello James. Great. Yes, sadly it usually getting steep being the culprit.
April 2, 2020
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James
Been working on this in my study and found what helps me get into position better is this. As I start the transition of shifting and rotating my core and pelvis, as the hands and arms drop in reaction to this movement, I maintain control of the club with the last three fingers of the left hand in unison of the fleshy part beneath the little finger bearing down on the grip until it is released. Obviously, we are talking micro-seconds but it is a feeling that helps me keep the club face more upright that we spoke of above and I feel the left hand and arm are maintaining a dominant control, while exercising the VJ right hand grip release.
April 4, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello James. Keeping control in the last three lead fingers is the whole objective to get proper pulling motion and release. Sounds good to me.
April 4, 2020
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James
Your reply has just come in as I have looked at applying these thoughts. First capture is impact, second completing release and the final almost finishing swing. One point I want to make is that left leg, I maintained pushing the heel into the ground to post up but did not try to straighten it as I have been doing. I felt I got better lean, better release and more freedom to release the club. Also, a lot less of that chicken wing. If you think this is ok I will continue to work on it tomorrow in the net with a ball. I do feel that when I try to post that lead leg up straight, it takes away my freedom to swing and puts a lot more undue pressure on that gammy knee.
April 4, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello James. I know we have lead leg/knee issues. Do as much as you can without pain/stress. If we can clean that up a bit. The lead wrist has never been better into impact.
April 4, 2020
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James
Release
April 4, 2020
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James
Almost completing the swing
April 4, 2020
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James
Comparison with review impact and today's impact. Definitely more shaft lean, plus in the takeaway less handsy. What I need to know from you is this knee situation, I know it is not RST but can assure you that the right heel is digging in. The real test will be repeating this with the ball.
April 4, 2020
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James
Further to this, I have let the club slowly release and without doing any additional manipulation of the club face, it is square to target and the club loft has decreased.
April 2, 2020
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Shawn
When I watch my swings on video I find that when I try to work on keeping my arms soft and not activated, they get pinned against my chest during the transition and as I try to keep my wrists soft, there is internal rotation of the right arm and external of the left wrist, resulting in across the line. Also I see a steepening move with the arms/wrists following this and then see them shallow out later in the swing. I thought I was spinning my shoulders but will still find this even when my shoulders are kept back to extreme. Is this a wrist hinge issue? Keeping arms too soft? I find I can stop it with fixating on internally rotating my left arm during transition, but then the swing feels very week and I come in under the plane and swinging way out to right. I will normally end up on plane at impact but it seems like something is off as you can see the club initially steepen. Thanks for any help
December 22, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Shawn. Take a look at How to Fix Plane and Path Video. You need to try and feel like you do nothing with the arms and hands. You are still doing an active motion. Yes, Drill to Learn Inside Path Video is more of a dramatic method to get the club to shallow if you need it. But, it sounds to me you need to train them to do nothing versus being active. Even when relaxed you may result to some old movement patterns until you get the body to direct the movement.
December 22, 2019
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Jason
Hi, I'm having a real difficult time understanding or getting the feel on where to place my weight on the transition and through to the finish. I see pros seem to do it effortlessly, ending up on what looks like the outside left heel. When I'm working on this I rarely end that balanced, usually I end up on the ball of my left foot, feeling like I'm gonna tip forward. I'm probably coming from the top, but what would be some good drills/videos to get that nice balanced shift? Also, I'm know I'm doing it wrong because I've been getting super tight in my left inner hip flexor, which is leading me to believe I'm def not stacking my weight properly, but again I know this and cant or haven't gotten that light bulb moment.
December 4, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jason. Take a look at Fixing Your Weight Transfer and Which Muscles to Use in Golf Swing Transition. Combine those efforts into Step 2 - Core Rotation Drill.
December 4, 2019
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Roy
Great video. I need some clarification. At the 1:22 mark on the video Chuck indicates that a lateral hip shift is needed to initiate the downswing but then at the 3:35 mark he says that the rotation of the front leg is the start of the downswing. Please clarify. One and the same? One first then the other in combination?
November 16, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Roy. The hips will have to move laterally and rotationally in the downswing. The first reference Chuck is making is to ensure that players shift their weight. Most players under do this move. The second reference is a little more in depth. The first move in the downswing will be lead knee external rotation. Take a look at Fixing You Weight Transfer, Closed Hip Slide, and Which Muscles to Use in Golf Swing Transition Videos.
November 16, 2019
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jeff
Hey there! I've been working on the RST system for around a month and I'm definitely seeing improvements. Most of those improvements happen to be only on the driving range though. When I get out to the course to play I quickly notice my old swing faults creeping back in and my 1st shot 'chuck' second shot sweet comes back in OR my ball flight returns back to my long time dreaded fade (which can be a great shot WHEN you want it to fade). Anyways....I have done TONS of reps w/ DEAD DRILLS and through the majority of the videos. I feel like my takeaway and the top of my backswing feel very solid. On the range I feel my hip transition very prominent (something I've never felt before)...but it's definitely improved......On the golf course however, I get spooked or something.....like I'm going to shank the ball if I use the hip transition...so my body fights it. I'm pretty sure it's time to start really grooving the transition phase of the swing. I like the above video a lot....but are there other videos that you would suggest I focus on for the time being? I haven't been able to do a video of my swing for you guys yet....but I promise I will send one in as soon as I can. Thanks for all of your help!
October 31, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jeff. If you can let us see the swing we will be happy to assists. In the meantime, try to keep it simple. Especially, when going to the course. RST 5 Step System and DEAD Drill have a ton of information on the transition. However, start with the Frisbee Drill to see how it is a natural movement you may already possess.
October 31, 2019
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jeff
Thanks Craig. I'll definitely get a video to you as soon as I can. I'll look at the Frisbee drill for sure. I noticed that I've got the hip movement intrinsically....but there's a specific 'feel' I get when I do it correctly. That's what I need to groove and develop confidence with.
October 31, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jeff. DEAD Drill 2 is great for that glute feeling.
October 31, 2019
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jeff
OK. Thanks!
October 31, 2019
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Martin
I am so frustrated I can't stand it. The ball just barely rolls down the grass!!!! I work so hard at this and get no rewards.
October 17, 2019
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Chuck
Hi Martin, I see you've only had 1 swing review. Clearly, there's something simple going on that you're not seeing. Why not submit a swing review so that our instructors can save you the frustration? If you're working hard on your game and not making progress, then don't waste more time by continuing to work on something incorrectly. In your first review, your swing was 100% arms dominated from a very poor setup position. You also had a very big flip at the bottom that was caused by dominating the entire downswing with the right arm. Have you corrected these issues? If not, there will be no chance of consistent improvement until you correct these issues.
October 17, 2019
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Mikko-Pekka
Hello Craig. I have a question about my review. Did you mean this kind of progression: 1) Go to the top, take right hand off, come down 2) Go to the top, pause at the trail thigh, take right hand off, release 3) Go to the top, pause, come down without pauses 4) Same as 3 but with the ball? I'm sorry but I got confused as you described the drills.
August 31, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Mikko. Yes. Sorry for the confusion.
August 31, 2019
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Mikko-Pekka
Thanks Craig for clarification! And right is still at fingertips only stage I assume?
August 31, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Mikko. I would experiment with fingertips and light right hand. If you can challenge yourself and get it right. That would only help.
August 31, 2019
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Mikko-Pekka
Thanks Craig!
August 31, 2019
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James
Further to my last comments I captured the impact moment of you and myself. The three vertical red lines represent from right to left are positions at setup, namely peak positon, hand position under chin and butt. The blue line is the head height, yellow, spine angle and finally the shaft plane. As you can see my head tends to come a bit at impact and I just lose the tush point a tad, also the trail elbow has just come away a bit from my body. I'll keep working at it and hopefully that little move you do initially at takeaway will help out a bit. Many thanks for all your encouragement and advice Craig. BTW, I celebrated my 78th birthday today.
August 16, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello James. Happy belated birthday! The slight difference that you see with the vertical red lines and the head would be because of my legs. As Chuck mentions in You Hit the Golf Ball with Your Legs Video. The posting up move with the lead hip going back and away is actually keeping me in my spine angle/posture. Since we know you have the lead leg ailment and can’t be as aggressive. You will tend to lose a little posture since you can't clear as well.
August 17, 2019
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James
Yes I agree what you say about that lead leg. However, a caveat I have found adopting that slightly taller posture and that initial move spoken of below, is that it takes pressure off that gammy knee of mine. The swings shown here of me are all videos of me prior to that subtle move. I got down to the practice ground two nights ago and apart from the move helping me in the other areas spoken of, I found that with the knee not being so bent, I was posting up almost straight but need to video it to confirm my feeling, which I hope to do Monday. I did not hit one ball fat two nights ago, every one being ball then divot and a friend of mine was really impressed with my ball striking, that pure stike that Chuck refers to.
August 17, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello James. Lovely. Great to hear some positive results. Hopefully, some confirmation on video that the feel is actually real!
August 17, 2019
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James
Been analysing your DL video Craig and have noticed that in your initial move back there is a visible shift away from the ball, only small but can be seen in the two pictures where indicated by the lines on the brim of your cap and butt. Looking at it carefully I can replicate it and it by using the core to initiate the move away from the ball and find it helps me in two things. One to reduce that handsy habit of mine and two I find it engages the right (trail) glute more. I have noticed this subtle move before but did not take much notice of it. Another benefit I find it helps be get my weight over the right ankle more a bit further along the back turn movement.
August 16, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hell James. Great. Yes, I am using a little shifting to help trigger the swing. Loading the glute and recruiting the core. This helps relieve tension, but also the handsy takeaway. Good pickup.
August 16, 2019
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James
Reckon you should recommend to Chuck to incorporate this in a backswing video where he shows the initial move in the backswing as I find this so good and makes the initiating the backswing so much easier to start. Like you said it takes away the tension you tend to feel at the outset of the backswing. One other thing I have adopted and tried out last night on the practice ground; that was to partially close my eyes as I played the shot. Found this helped me concentrate on my swing movement, especially on my core and less focus on the ball. Pouring with rain today or I would have been out in my net videoing it so confided to my study area but can't really swing so relaxed because I might hit the ceiling
August 16, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello James. Will do. He is sitting beside me right now . Closing your eyes can be a very helpful tool to stay focused on the move. It will start to give you a a hyper sense of awareness in the swing.
August 17, 2019
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James
Hi Craig, been working more on this lag drill and think I am almost there, having achieving those two frames. lso, some shaft lean just before impact. Hope I am on the right track.
August 15, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello James. It does look improved. Lag retention much better. Sounds like you are on the right track.
August 15, 2019
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James
Yes but I was not totally satisfied. I felt I was too flat at the top and finish; after studying your swing I learned some important points seeing how your stood to your height more and not so much bend in the legs as I am. So worked on this down on the practice ground this evening and it was much better, furthermore, it put less strain on that gammy lead knee. Hope to have some results for you next week.
August 15, 2019
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peterjohnbourke16601
Hi after the downcock and shift phase, where does the squat come in.Is it when you pull club to right thigh or seamlessly melded together into weight shift, down cock-Thanks
August 14, 2019
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Mikko-Pekka
Hello Peter. My understanding. Your first move is weight shift as you squat. That movement causes the automatic downcock. This drill overemphasizes the arm movement to maintain lag. Hope that helps.
August 15, 2019
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Colman
Hello at 2:26 in this video, this is where I get confused. He says “pull the hands to the right thigh”. Is this a conscious move to pull hands to right thigh? Or is it a result of rotating hips more? Because everything up to this point says hips do all the movement in the downswing. Watching him do it at 2:26 seems like he’s consciously pulling him hands to his right thigh? Thanks for the help
August 6, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Colman. You will need a little conscious pull from the lead arm for the drill above. In the full swing the weight shift, legs, core will be doing the vast majority of the pull in the downswing. The lead lat will aid in allowing the arms to work into the proper positioning.
August 6, 2019
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Henrique
Hi I can do this drill without problems as long I keep my body rotational speed very low. But, as soon I start turning my body with speed, centrifugal forces arise and I can not keep the shaft in control. Please help to move the shaft when turning my body
July 28, 2019
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Mikko-Pekka
Hello Henrique. If you rotate your body very fast (I am assuming you refer to downswing) it is impossible to not have centrifugal forces. You want to keep your body very quiet. Don't rotate your shoulders at all. Let the hips pull you to correct position. You don't want any massive rotational motion of your body.
July 28, 2019
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Henrique
Yes, that is the solution. My problem is I have loaded up my core so much in the backswing, that is very dificult for me not releasing it with speed during the downswing
July 28, 2019
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Mikko-Pekka
Hello Henrique. Make sure that you don't have any tension in your shoulders at the top of the backswing. The key really is to feel that your shoulders stay shut all the way to impact. That's impossible but feelwise that needs to happen. Start out slowly and in chunks. I would also recommend that you send your drill for review. The instructor will also helpo you out with the drill. Report back your results. Good luck!
July 28, 2019
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James
Hi Craig, thank you for your advice in my review today and further to this have got on to this transition drill. My big issue with this comes at the very first move, the down-cock drill; I find as I shift and rotate left and pull down the club I do not get as steep as Chuck does. When he gets to the position shown in the picture, my shaft is where the red line is. I have tried extremely hard and even doing it clunky, I cannot hold the club as upright as I am pulling the shaft down with my left hand as I shift and rotate left. I reckon Chuck must be a bit double jointed or has rubber bones . However, further into the drill as the left arm reaches parallel, I do get my left hand almost to my left thigh and then release the wrists and that is less effort than I have been using. Will have to work on this a bit to try and ingrain into my swing.
July 16, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello James. Yes, the picture of Chuck is very excessive. You really wouldn't want that much lag because you would have a hard time getting rid of it. Practice with we only want some increase. Nothing crazy for long drive contest . Keep maintaining it longer as you noted to that trail thigh and all should be well.
July 16, 2019
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Mikko-Pekka
Hello Craig! You wanted me to elaborate what I meant by pulling with both hands. At time stamp 02:27 Chuck says "pull the HANDS to right thigh". I was thinking (and feeling) the same thing. Imagine the rope of a church bell. When ringing the bell it requires pulling with both hands. I was referring to same pulling sensation. Is that ok to feel while performing the drill?
July 8, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Mikko. Pulling the church bell is fine. But, the lead side is the pulling side. You need to focus on the lead side pulling the hands.
July 8, 2019
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Rayan
When I’m doing the drills, even at fast speeds I look great, have plenty of lag, and am making dollar bill divots. BUT, when I put a ball in front of me or anything else that I need to hit, my hands tense up and my grip increases. This causes my speed to reduce, my right side to take over, my shots or swing slows down tremendously, and my body raises up. How or what can I do to prevent this?
June 30, 2019
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Mikko-Pekka
Hello Rayan. I asked this question below. The trick is to start slowly and in chunks. Basicly you just go trough the sequense as described in video but with the ball. Don't worry about the distance or where the ball goes. Focus only on correct movements. I am now in a situation where I stop three times during the drill with a ball. The stop is there to check positions and tension. I would also do some 9 to 3 drills with a ball. Hope that helps.
June 30, 2019
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Rayan
Hi Mikko-Pekka, thanks so much for the reply. I will definitely do my 9 to 3 and lag drills slowly and in chunks with a ball on the ground. This should help quite a bit. If I can keep my arms relaxed and grip loose, my swing and speed will be good. Again, thank you so much for replying to my question.
June 30, 2019
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Mikko-Pekka
No problem mate. That white devil needs to be tamed and only way to get there is to start very slowly and in chunks. Just make sure your core body movement is correct. Transition Drill won't work if body isn't moving correctly. I spend a whole summer trying to make it work but my body positions were wrong so I didn't make any progress. I am now trying it again as an unlimited review group student. I would suggest that you send your current drill for review so the instructor can see what could possibly be holding you back. If everything is fine then it is a matter of slow and methological progress. You will get there! When positions are fine in chunks then you can make pauses shorter and shorter until you perform the drill slowly without pauses. Then just slowly speed it up. Good luck mate!
June 30, 2019
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James
Further to my review Craig, I could see my hands were a bit too close to my thighs at address before I posted it. I was thinking more of keeping my right arm straighter in the takeaway. With my goal of trying not getting my right elbow fly out so much corrected. Plus to get my downswing to start fractionally before my club had reached the top, which I felt was being achieved, I did not want to take away from myself at that point I had got, to go an work on that. I did actually work on that bit later in my study in front of a mirror. As for the second part you mentioned of trying to get the hands and arms fall, I have actually been working on a position where I turn to the top and hold that position facing away from target then gently letting the hands, arms and club literally just fall towards the ground, rotating my lead arm gently so that the club face is facing towards the ground as my right arm straightened out. At that point I then turned my body to impact position and providing I maintained the tush line and shifted my weight over to the lead side, the club was in a great dynamic position. However, it was my thoughts and attention were more on getting the two points you highlighted last correct. When practicing what Chuck demonstrates here my main concern it is a bit of a struggle to maintain that tush line which I feel is so important for me in a swing. A big caveat for me doing the release part as Chuck describes here, is that when the arms are fully released the club is about 30 degrees right of target, which if I can achieve that, will stop that early dive in behind my left leg problem I have after release. If I can get to that release position Chuck shows here, maintaining my tush line through impact, I feel I can make a big impact.
June 7, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello James. I agree trying to get that full release may want you to feel losing of the tush line. But, as you mentioned the spine is a big key. You need to practice maintaining the proper side bend when releasing. Take a look at Side Bend in the Golf Downswing.
June 7, 2019
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Manuel
What happened to "posting up" in this drill?
May 29, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Manuel. This is hyper focused on trying to feel the arms/wrists maintain lag angle. This is an exaggerated version with very little post up as post up triggers the release/firing of lag.
May 29, 2019
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Manuel
Thank you, Chris.
May 29, 2019
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Jason
Hi, so as I've been putting this drill together, I definitely feel the whip the lag creates and every once in a while I will hit it straight, but more often than not I pull the ball just left of where I'm aiming and this is when I make solid contact. Thoughts on what could be causing this? Also, when I try it with my driver, I'm skying the ball big time.
April 26, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jason. Skying with the driver the club is typically coming in steep and going under the ball. If you tend to get over the top. If you get steep with some cast I can see that happening. I would work on shallowing out your swing, so the angle coming in isn't too steep. How to Fix Plane and Path Video. Also, if you tend to get on plane correctly and with good lag. You are more than likely opening the shoulders, or flipping the hands. Take a look at Moving the Fulcrum and Flip v Release.
April 26, 2019
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Jason
So regarding implementing all the pieces and the mental thoughts during the takeaway and downswing, first off should I even be thinking anything or just swinging the club. I find myself wanting to think throughout the swing and have some type of thought, especially at the top of the swing, but then everything happens in a blur. Is that how it should be? I hope this makes sense.
April 25, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jason. When training you may have a some manual thoughts to get over the hump. But, ideally when playing you shouldn't have a lot going on up there. Possibly a trigger like shift weight, or back to the target. Nothing major though. If you are thinking your way through the swing it will hurt you on the course.
April 25, 2019
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Mikko-Pekka
Hello Craig! Just for clarification. You wanted me to have 1000 reps of step4 with sections like in Transition Drill while monitoring tension in my lead arm and shoulder? I wasn't sure what you meant by "difficult drill".
April 19, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Mikko. I was concerned about giving you this drill before leaving town. However, I didn't think it would be to difficult for you to get correct seeing how well you are progressing. We will start to take out some pauses before reaching a 1000. But, you are supposed to check in with me about every 200 reps. I will adjust as need be. For the time being the reps need to be exactly what we saw today.
April 19, 2019
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Mikko-Pekka
Thank you Craig! I'll get back to you once 200 reps is completed.
April 19, 2019
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sambhu
What about moving lead hip out of the way? Does weight shift alone suffice? Ordoes release take care of lead hip movement?
March 25, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Sambhu. You need to clear the hips. Weight shift will help move to the lead side and create lag/proper plane. But, posting up the hip needs to move back and away to trigger the release. The momentum of the release will pull the body through.
March 25, 2019
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Aaron
Hey Craig should we be shooting for 3-5000 reps on theses as well?
February 24, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Aaron. Depends on what else you are working on. If you are performing the Step 4 and 5 Drill perfectly then you won't need that for this one. Or, the 5 Minutes to the Perfect Downswing. If you struggle with the issues this drill tackles. Add the drill to you routine. But, start to implement the same feelings into your Step 4, 5, or 5 Minutes to the Perfect Downswing.
February 25, 2019
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Deborah
In transition, does the right elbow come straight down to the right side or in front of the right side? I’m struggling with keeping the club on a shallow plane in my downswing. In Chuck’s videos, his swing plane comes down his elbow line and mine is slightly above that. How can I shallow the plane more in transition (other than with weight transfer and keeping the shoulders closed and front shoulder down)?
February 12, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Deborah. The trail arm arm will work in front of the body in the downswing. However, your feeling with hands and arms will tend to be more vertical in nature. Take a look at How to Fix Plane and Path Video to help you shallow out better.
February 12, 2019
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Jeff
Struggling with transition - can load into my right side well, but when trying to shift back to left, a lot of the power seems to get thrown away and feel weak through impact!
February 9, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jeff. Combine Keep the Rear Shoulder Back Video with Which Muscles to Feel During Golf Swing Transition Video. This will help you pull the weight and not spin the shoulders. Allowing you to preserve the power for impact.
February 9, 2019
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Mike
Like the concept of Rotary Golf but trying to change things has torn my game apart. Having real problems in the hitting area. Feel I have the movements to this point OK but then have the feeling of pulling the club through with the L arm and very little R arm/hand action leading to very weak shots. Can hardly carry an 8 iron 100yds! Help
January 7, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Mike. Sounds like you may not be allowing for speed in the release. Take a look at You Throw the Club Head at the Golf Ball and How Swing Speed Affects Compression.
January 7, 2019
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Mike
Last year I purchased a set of Titleist AP1 irons with graphite shafts thinking I could gain more clubhead speed with the lighter shafts. In reality I seem to now find I've lost feel at the transition compared with my old steel shafts. Is this fair comment or am I likely to be doing something wrong?
December 20, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Mike. I can understand losing a bit of feel for the transition. However, if you put hyper focus on the body and worry less about the club. You will be okay with the newer weapons. I love graphite because it's lighter and you don't have to swing as hard. But, you do lose a sense of awareness for the club head and kick point a little.
December 20, 2018
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Mark
If you want the club face pointing slightly at the ground at hip height on the downswing why would you not have it aiming slightly toward the ground on the takeaway rather than toe up?
November 22, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Mark. Take a look at Forearm Rotation for Power and Using the Wrists in the Golf Swing. The club face should always be rotating. Also, Shake Hands Drill.
November 22, 2018
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Richard
On the downswing, should it feel like I'm holding my shoulders very closed in order to end up with them square at impact?
November 17, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Richard. Yes. Take a look at Keep the Rear Shoulder Back Video.
November 18, 2018
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Mikko-Pekka
This is a super drill and I feel that when I get this drill down I am going to play some great golf. However when I practice this with a ball I shank it quite often. What am I doing wrong? Without the ball the drill looks OK on video. Another question I have is that how should I practice with a ball? I am able to do correct movements without the ball but with the ball things begin to fall apart. Any videos/ideas?
October 12, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Mikko. If you shank it you maybe holding on to the angle too long. You still need to release the angle. Also, make sure you don't push your trail hip into impact. Practice it in sections with the ball first. Very slow and methodical movements. Don't worry about the distance on the ball. Just get the movements. Once you get comfortable. Start taking away sections and picking up the pace incrementally.
October 12, 2018
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Hector
Should I keep my shoulders close to the body doing the shift and downcock? What’s the feeling to avoid using the right side of the body because when I do the downcocking is with my right hand and that activated my right side and therefore my centripetal force and my over the top and the disaster cames!!!!! Help
October 9, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Hector. The trail wrist will increase with a big downcock. To counter balance this feeling of wanting to push/fire the wrist early. You have the practice keeping the shoulders closed (Keep the Rear Shoulder Back) video, and the wrist must stay soft. Make sure you are letting you lower body and core lead you down to keep the tension with the upper half/wrists at bay.
October 9, 2018
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Ken
Just revisited this video. Still one of my favorites. I pick out 1 or 2 new things every time I watch. This time in particular was when Chuck mentioned his lead shoulder was still lower than the trail shoulder coming into impact, thus enabling him to "stay in the shot" or "cover" with his chest. Good teaching.
August 29, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Ken. Great. Glad you like the drill. If you like the lead shoulder low principle. Take a look at the Level Shoulders Drill.
August 30, 2018
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James
I don't know whether it is my imagination but in the part of the video where Chuck shows the down-cock part; around 1 min 52 sec, it looks like the back of his left hand is cupped flexing towards the forearm. I thought at this part of the down-swing the back of the left hand should be flat/slightly bowed. Can you please enlighten me on this.
August 27, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello James. To reach the excessive amount of lag Chuck shows in the video the lead hand would need to cup. However, this is way too much lag and unnecessary for a normal swing.
August 27, 2018
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James
Sorry what I should have added to my last reply is that I have found the drill very helpful albeit with my left hand in a flat, slightly bowed position when the hands have reached waist high and the shaft is about 15 to 20 degs angle to perpendicular. Also, Chuck in his Golf Swing Transition Drill where he again refers to the downcock drill showing the left shoulder staying lower than the right in the earlier stages of the downswing, is excellent as this is helping me to really shift much better to the left than I was. I am finding that I am getting into a better position for releasing the club than I was and this in turn is helping me to achieve the flat left wrist at impact which is something I know I must do or else!!!
August 28, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello James. Sounds like some progress is being made. Appreciate the positive update on your swing progress and pointing out some elements in the video that will clarify moves for other site members.
August 28, 2018
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James
Would have thought Chuck would say that he was cupping his left wrist purely to highlight the lag and that in a real swing cupping the left wrist should not be done. At one time a while back I was actually cupping my left hand as I found it much easier to create such lag but produced big slices as a result and soon stopped it. Think what you have to remember golfers, especially beginners and young golfers, are impressionable and when they see such actions from a top professional assume that is what they should be doing.
August 28, 2018
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Gary
Truly an important video! I have one Q. “Pull the hands to the thigh?” For me, that is dangerous, given what I thought the golf swing was years, that is, pulling down with my right arm as fast as possible. Q: Is it Okay to let gravity bring it down? After all, shifting my weight along with relaxed arms and writs starts the change of direction as well as creating lag. Okay to let it fall a little further without using any pull from my arms?
August 20, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Gary. Weight shift and gravity will bring the arms down. Perfectly acceptable.
August 20, 2018
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Gary
Thank you! Follow up Q: Chris discusses two possible release points, the right thigh or the left. It was unclear to me which would be best for me. What is your recommendation? Second, what video do you recommend at this point for me to release the club? Thanks,
August 21, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Gary. It all depends on your angle. If you tend to have a major cast and early release. A good point to focus on would be waiting until the lead thigh. Better players that have good pull and lag need to feel it earlier to release the angle soon enough. Which category do you fall in?
August 21, 2018
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Gary
Thanks! I am in the first category with the goal to be in the second. My goal is not to push from the right arm, slow the transition down and develop good lag. My concern with waiting til the lead thigh is my natural desire to push too hard with the right arm. Your thoughts please?
August 21, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Gary. Exactly. That's why it will be crucial to feel exaggeration at this point. Combine the above work with understanding the best way to have lag (4 Step Lag Builder and Frisbee Drill). I would suggest starting small (9 to 3 Lag Building Drills) and then work your way up to full.
August 21, 2018
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Robert
I have been working hard to lead with left side on downswing (as a righty). I still have a tendency to get “overactive “ with right arm/hand/side sometimes. What is best drill/video to quiet this old bad tendency. When I get it going with left side leading, I really get some clean, solid, reproducible ball striking.
August 2, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Robert. The best thing is too take the trail hand off. Step 4 - Add the Club. Remind yourself what the swing feels like too be totally lead arm dominant. Also, Keep the Rear Shoulder Back Video.
August 2, 2018
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Robert
So the videos to rewatch are : step 4 add the club and keep the rear shoulder back videos?
August 2, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Robert. Yes. if you focus on proper body and lead arm motion (step 4). Combined with keeping the rear shoulder back when you start adding trail hand. Should help curtail the issue.
August 2, 2018
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Mikko-Pekka
What is the best drill to overcome the issue of left shoulder pulling up as mentioned in video? I tried the level shoulders drill but I still pull my left shoulder up. By the way what is the correct motion of shoulders in downswing? Do shoulders rotate on same plane as in the backswing?
July 30, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Mikko. You pull up the lead shoulder in the transition, or into impact? Take a look at the Left Arm Downswing Drill. We need to figure out if its excessive secondary axis tilt, or you are spinning the shoulders/combined with early extension causing the lifting issue.
July 30, 2018
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Mikko-Pekka
Thank you for quick reply! I pull up into impact. I used to spin the shoulders but have been able to quiet it down. It seems that even in slowmo I can not figure out the correct shoulder movement.
July 30, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Mikko. Sounds like a release and post up issue. My suggestion. Try the step and release drill in the Play the Best Golf of Your Life Section Video 3 of 6. Also, the video before it for tension 2 of 6. See if you get the same results doing that drill. If it cleans the movement up. We will talk about adding the trail hand.
July 30, 2018
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Mikko-Pekka
Thani you Craig! I'm going to spend some time with this.
August 2, 2018
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Ron A. Sr.
when shifting back toward the target, what muscle should you use?
May 12, 2018
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Ron A. Sr.
Craig I Love it, tell me more. I think I pass the Rotary Swing rest.
May 14, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Ron. You are using the lead thigh inner adductors to pull your weight over (Preventing Hip Pain Video).
May 14, 2018
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Nick
What's some good drills to do to stop shoulder spinning in the downswing? If you can point me to some videos that would be great. I searched for shoulder spinning but nothing appropriate came up. Thanks.
May 7, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Nick. How to Fix Plane and Path, Step 2 - Core Rotation (without a club), and the Frisbee Drill for starters.
May 8, 2018
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Earl
Please what the are doing doing this exercise. If i don’t start the down swing with a hip turn i never will be able to have my hips open about 45 degrees at impact.
May 3, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Birdie Boy. Could you rephrase the question? If I am assuming correctly. As you shift the hips will have to rotate so you don't end up with a closed hip slide. Fixing Your Weight Transfer Video. In the above drill you still need to shift weight properly to start the transition.
May 4, 2018
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Christopher
Chuck’s left wrist appears to be cupped when his hands have come down to his right thigh. Is this a camera angle distortion ..? or is the left wrist really changing from 1) flat at the top of the backswing to 2) cupped at the right thigh at the bottom of the transition to 3) bowed (glove logo down) at impact?
February 26, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Christopher. More camera angle perspective. You aren't trying to cup the wrist when adding lag. Take a look at Using the Wrists in the Golf Swing to see the complete motion back and through. Flat at the top gradually bowing into impact.
February 26, 2018
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WILLIAM
About 5-6 months ago I saw a Quinton video where he described the hand feeling like they come straight down (vertically). Can you point me to that video?
January 7, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello William. Could you give me anymore details? Happy to help you find it.
January 7, 2018
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WILLIAM
the view where the hands came down almost vertically in a straight line was a down the line view. It may have had to do with lag.
January 8, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello William. 4 Step Lag Builder?
January 8, 2018
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WILLIAM
No. The closest is The Key to Building Lag video, but it isn't than one either.
January 8, 2018
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Hector
THE VIDEO IS KEY TO CREATING LAG- FFCOT
January 21, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hmm. You've got me stumped. Maybe a video in the Laws of Compression Series. I will have to continue looking.
January 8, 2018
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WILLIAM
I've been looking for about 6 months. It may have been one of those teasers. Do y'all have videos that only show on youtube?
January 8, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello William. Most of the Youtube Videos are snippets of what is listed on the site.
January 8, 2018
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Frank
I found this video got me in trouble. I slid hips too far left blocking my ability to straighten my left leg to get club release club without early hip extension (pulled left hip too far left). The idea of of “shift and downcock” got me into trouble! I got a lot of downcock but too much shift. I finally recognized the problem, reduced hip shift, increased hip turn getting to 35 degrees with left leg straightening. This brought big improvement for me. If you redo this video it would help others like me who are NOT hip spinners to identify too much shift! Also, Is there a video to help me get right amount of hip shift and avoid too much hip shift?
November 17, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Frank. Preventing Hip Pain Video will help with the over shifting into the lead side. Appreciate the constructive criticism on how to make the videos better for our users.
November 18, 2017
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Frank
What the heck is ladd? Strange title to a video! Wow, that is a long 19 minute video. I tried the move to flatten the club at the top. It increased club head speed and turned my fade into a draw (flatter and less vertical club shaft on way down). Seems to be a very powerful move for my swing! Now I have to learn how to control it! Any reason it is not covered in other downswing videos? Seems to be a major change maker! Also, I can accomplish some of the same flattening by relaxing the right wrist and letting head drop slightly. Is the head drop with right wrist covered somewhere? I am shocked to find what a powerful change flattening the club at the top is for my swing and not to see this move covered more in downswing videos.
November 9, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Frank. LADD (Left Arm Downswing Drill). We try not to focus much on what the trail arm is doing in the initial transition. The technical details aren't brought up in most of the other downswing videos because the flattening is a byproduct of proper shifting, lead side usage and passive shoulders. Some members want all the nuts and bolts. Others more just a how to fix the issue. Happy to hear about your new found improvement.
November 10, 2017
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Frank
It’s a long video but it gave me a level of detail through the whole down swing that was magic to me. This video brought a real break through for me in many areas. The new move for me is the upper arm rotation at top to flatten swing. I never heard that move in other videos and it was a giant break through for me. I went from disliking this long video to being my single most helpful video. Your readers really need a better name for the LADD video like “Vital left arm moves”. You should also reference it in transition and other downswing moves. Thanks for the video even if it is too long.
November 17, 2017
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Frank
Is there some flattening of golf club during this process: bend right wrist or Turn left arm so head drops?
November 5, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Frank. There will be some internal rotation of the lead arm. LADD Video.
November 6, 2017
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colin
Hi you mention squaring the clubface video, where on the site can I find this drill?
October 9, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Colin. We are actually going to make a newer version. Here is the current: Square the Clubface Early. Put that exact title in your search bar.
October 9, 2017
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JOEL
Wow, phenomenal drill - it has changed my game for good! I'm getting much more consistent contact and ball compression, and much more power with less effort. This has been the missing ingredient for me!
September 16, 2017
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Chuck
Glad you like it Joel!
September 18, 2017
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Yuefeng
Is there a video talking about swing fault of flat backswing? I feel flat backswing is detrimental to the correct transition move in two ways, 1) it's harder for the arms to drop and pull down as club is flat as a result of exessive lead forearm rotation, and hands are easily stuck behind the body, or 2) the body needs to spin fast to get the hands back in position which lead to out-to-in swing and slices. Appreciate your comments on the above thoughts.
September 5, 2017
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Hi Yuefeng, You are correct that a flat/deep backswing can have negative effects on the downswing. There are multiple causes to a flat backswing such as, lead arm push, hips coming forward and the spine moving vertical etc. I would watch 5 mins to a perfect backswing and 3 functions of the right arm to start getting your hands and arms in the correct position at the top. Otherwise, you need to submit videos of your swing for review, so we can find out exactly your issue is and point you in a specific video that will help you.
September 5, 2017
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Olga
What about driver? Will same exercise work for it?
August 5, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Olga. Yes, but easier to train with an iron.
August 5, 2017
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Olga
Paradox ! With Iron and hybrid it works perfectly, with wood is on the way (working on it) , once it comes to driver... I am crying (note: I never do it in fast motion nor all the 5 steps together)
August 6, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Olga. There are a lot of different variables that could be going on with your driver swing. It would be tough to pinpoint without more information. Feel free to send the drill or driver swing in for a review. One of our instructors should easily be able to diagnose the issue.
August 7, 2017
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Bradley
I have done the 9 to 3 drill a lot & have become pretty good at it, but when I do this Transition Drill, I feel like my hands are approaching the ball much more from the inside & with much more lag in my right wrist. As a result, my success with the 9 to 3 drill seems to have not helped at all with this Transition Drill or with hitting full shots. Does that make sense or what am I likely doing wrong?
July 17, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Bradely. It would be hard without seeing your drill. I would imagine if you feel you are coming too inside and with a lot of lag you are experiencing not getting rid of it in time. You need to combine the above with a proper release. Take a look at the Left Hand Release Drill.
July 17, 2017
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T David
From the top, I like feel the inside leg muscles on the left leg pulling the weight forward from the inside of the left foot. Is this correct?
June 13, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Dave. Lead foot and lead hip adduction. The adduction will be pulling more of the weight.
June 13, 2017
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Howard
Regarding this quote from the video: "Bring your hands to your right thigh with the club parallel to the ground & the face slightly shut," what muscle groups should I feel engaging?
June 3, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Howard. Take a look at the Rotary Golf Downswing Overview for added help. You will be using your weight shift (lead hip adduction and glutes), lead oblique (to help square the hips) and slight pulling from the lead lat.
June 3, 2017
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George
Hi Craig, I just had a swing review with you. You recommend this drill. Today I practice this drill with a club. I feel my right hand so dominant when I do Downcock drill. Is this the right feeling for my right hand? When I bring my hands to my right thigh with the club parallel to the ground and the "face" slightly shut? How do I achieve the face slightly shut? I love this drill. Thanks.
May 18, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello George. The trail hand should be helping you retain your lag angle. You don't want it to feel like it will dominate the rest of the downswing. But, you will notice the increase in angle and support it provides. If you start squaring the face a little early it will tend to be slightly shut. You may be trying to square it too early, or pushing down with the trail hand to cause some slight closing.
May 19, 2017
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Nacho
Hi Craig, do u think is a good idea to add this drill to my mix? I'm trying to slow down my hips and bring my arms down (to my right leg) in order to not getting stuck. My torso is very quiet but muy hips tend to fire very quickly so my shaft tends to shallow too much. The most likely result is a big snap hook. I'm also adding to the mix the squat to square drill but I was trying to understand how to squat properly. Thank u! Have a great day!
May 6, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Nacho. I don't think this would hurt at all. Especially, being in the hip spinner category.
May 7, 2017
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T David
Ran across this video when trying to find more info to help shallowing the club at the start of the downswing. The first move at the top... The hip/weight shifts to the right and brings the hands down. Do the hands actually come straight down from the top? And, is it possible to get too much Downcock (less shallowing out of the club)?
April 26, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Dave. It is possible to have too much downcock. More or less though people tend to get stuck with too much pull to create it which leads to excessive shallowing. It doesn't come down purely vertical even though it may feel that way. Go to the 4 Step Lag Builder Video. It might be geared more for lag, but using the pull of the weight and core may help you leave the arms passive to shallow.
April 26, 2017
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Hector
In the downswing how close are my hands to the right leg ? Or when I do the downcocking and bring my hands to the right leg , in real swing how close are to the leg ?
March 18, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Hector. Your trail arm may graze or be close to your shirt. But, the hands should be free and clear to work in front of the trail leg.
March 18, 2017
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Hector
Ok the weight shift , the downcocking and bringing the club to the right leg trying to keep the lag it is also for the driver , woods and hybrids ?
March 18, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Hector. Yes. The same for all clubs.
March 18, 2017
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GC
What's the best way to minimize the right shoulder movement? I can downcock but at nine o clock, somehow my right shoulder starts to move and that then gets me to case and lose the lag
March 18, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello GC. The shoulders will have to square up into impact. However, a good way to fix over rotating is practicing the 9 to 3 motion, but with proper release versus pushing it through.
March 18, 2017
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Warren
So its really a "squat to square" move by the body that brings the club down?
March 16, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Warren. Pretty much a proper squat to square will do the work for you. See Step 3 - Add the Lead Arm.
March 16, 2017
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Warren
So I dont consciously pull the club down by dropping the arms or pulling the hands down. Rather the club/hands comes (down since connected to shoulders) down to a "parallel to ground" position? Its as if my weight shift to the left is the engine that drops the club?
March 16, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Warren. The weight shift and pull from the core will be the engine to bring the arms down. However, still remember you need to remain tension free and passive with the upper half for it to work properly.
March 16, 2017
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Hector
so when he says wrist are going to bent back means left wrist cupping and right wrist cocking ? is the only way I can preserve the lag?? help
March 15, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Hector. When the "wrists bend back" all he is saying is the set is increasing. You want to shy away from excessive cupping of the lead. The trail wrist you will feel increase in set/hinge a little easier.
March 15, 2017
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gordon
I am using this drill to improve weight shift and lag. In a lesson yesterday I was told that I was straightening my left (lead) leg prematurely, causing fat shots due to incomplete weight shift. I have followed up this observation, which I think is accurate, and must admit that I am not sure when the left leg should become straight. Could you indicate for me what the left leg (hip, knee and ankle parts!) should be doing at each stage in the excellent Transition Drill exercise. Is there a specific RST video on the left/lead leg? I used the search function but it came up essentially blank. Thanks in advance, Gordon.
February 24, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Gordon. Take a look at Perfecting Lower Body Stability, You Hit the Golf Ball with Your Legs and the Squat to Square. After you shift into the lead side (squat to square positioning). That will be when you start to push into the ground to post up and clear the hips. Also, the Rotary Golf Downswing Overview will help.
February 24, 2017
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gordon
Craig, thanks for the two recommended videos. In particular the Rotary Golf Downswing Overview was useful. I now need your help connecting this to the Transition Drill sequence. The Rotary Goöf Downswing Overview refers to the phases Wt. Shift (Squat to Square) then Rotate (hips) and finally Post Up ( straightening lead leg, my issue). The Transition Drill phases are Downcock ( Squat to Square) then Hands at trail thigh (club parallel to ground) and finally Release. Trying to link these phases should I Rotate the hips when moving the hands to the trail thigh and Posting Up when Releasing the club through impact? I think I may have been Posting Up too soon, directly after Downcocking and whilst moving the hands to the trail thigh. Writing these sequences down does seem very cumbersome, but any guidance, and clarification, you can provide would be much appreciiated. Regards, Gordon.
February 24, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Gordon. Yes, you should have a little rotation when moving to the trail thigh. There is some slight lead oblique and lead lat pull to reach trail thigh. Followed by posting up to trigger the release. You want to wait until the hands reach the trail thigh before you start to think about posting up. Because posting up prior would lead to an early release.
February 24, 2017
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gordon
My thanks Craig for this clarification. Now I understand what is to be done, it is only up to me to do it ....! Best regards, Gordon.
February 25, 2017
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Yi
Hi I have a qustion: in the down cocking moment, from the front view Chuck and his students achieved a less than 90 degree lag angle between club shaft and the leading forearm. When I pick up an iron trying to cock it, I can't make it less than 90degrees without doing one of the following 2 options: (1) cupping so from the top view more knuckles showing up; (2) letting the shaft slip from my palm so the shaft rests more to pinky finger and relies on the support of the thumb. From Chuck's explanation that we want to have the club head slightly closed when it is at the right thigh so cupping is not a good option, do I need to let the shaft slide in my palm during down cocking to retained the lag angle? Maybe I can't explain it correctly.
February 20, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Yi. I wouldn't advise either way to get the lag unless you have a super strong grip. But, then other fundamentals would have to be changed. The amount of angle will vary from player to player. Your goal is not to have a massive downcock, but at least a change of direction or lag increase. Take a look at the Frisbee Drill and see if taking the lead thumb off has anything to do with not achieving better angle.
February 21, 2017
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Yi
Craig: Thanks a lot for your prompt replies not only for this question but for the othes as well. A golf beginner's questions may be too primitive compared to others, so I have to apologize for the dumbness of my questions. I run into the problem that whenever I try to increase the cock, my left wrist will intend to cup itself, meaning I will lose the flatness of my left wrist so it will not stay in the same plane of left forearm anymore. This creates a big problem because it immediately steepens the downswing angle and makes things messy afterwards. I searched other websites a little and found one instrctor suggestion to this problem: use the right hand hinge to flatten the left wrist. Do you think it is good solution?
March 1, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Yi. The trail hand hinge will increase some during the downcock move. The combination of the lead arm slightly internally rotating to shallow the path and trail hand hinge should help with the cupped lead. Thanks for the kind words early on in the post.
March 1, 2017
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Douglas
As the sequence is so important, after pausing at the top - do you downcock before starting the weight shift? Doug
February 9, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Doug. Weight shift into downcock.
February 9, 2017
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Hector
How close the hands are from the Right hip or pocket in the downswing ? When I do the shift , downcocking drill , how close I bring my hands to the right hip ? I can't do the downcocking drill without my right hand separating from my left thumb !!! So I have to regrip the golf club !!!!
February 8, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Hector. Without seeing your swing I can't determine why you are losing the grip. I would be happy to take a look at a swing review for you on the specific issue. About a fist/fist and a half away from the trail leg.
February 8, 2017
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Donald
Craig, I can't seem to find the video you mention - "Using the Wrist Effectively and Efficiently". Would you please guide me to it? Thanks, Don (not Donal)
February 4, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Don. Here is the link. https://rotaryswing.com/videos/full-swing-advanced/introduction/using-the-wrists-effectively-and-efficiently
February 4, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Donal. Here is the link. https://rotaryswing.com/videos/full-swing-advanced/introduction/using-the-wrists-effectively-and-efficiently
February 4, 2017
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Donald
For me to achieve the amount of clubhead lag that Chuck does it requires that I cup my left wrist. However, Chuck suggests that the left wrist be somewhat pronated at roughly the hip area to achieve the desired slightly shut club face. Is he going from a cupped wrist to a pronated wrist in this demonstration, or am I just not flexible enough in my left wrist to achieve the amount of lag he does? Thanks for your response and I continue to love your site. Don Sager
February 3, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Donal. Thanks for the compliments of the site. Ideally, you don't want to add the cupping in the lead wrist. It will be hard to undo by impact. It is a little flexibility, but also try to feel it a setting a little more in the trail wrist versus solely the lead. Take a look at Using the Wrist Effectively and Efficiently to understand all positions.
February 4, 2017
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David
If you hold the angle will it cause you to hit a shank like shot
January 31, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello David. You can hold the angle to an extreme amount which would cause that type of shot.
January 31, 2017
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Ed
Thanks for the video. I struggle with my transition. I also have a question about the left shoulder. Here it says to keep the left shoulder down, while in the RST 5 Step video it says the left shoulder should move up and back. Can you please clear this up for me? Thanks for your patience.
January 31, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Ed. Early in the the transition you want to feel the lead shoulder staying down and in the shot. It's more a feeling to help from spinning early or pulling out/up too soon. The lead shoulder will raise a little, but more players tend to raise it manually too soon.
January 31, 2017
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gordon
This drill provides a useful breakdown of a complicated set of moves and is helping me to identify mismatches to my own efforts. Could you please provide an indication of the appropriate weight distributions at the top of the backswing, after the downcock, at impact and in the final position. Thanks, Gordon.
January 31, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Gordon. At the top of the backswing you want 80% of your weight on the trail side. The vast majority of the weight transfer will happen during the takeaway. Your goal when shifting to the lead side and adding lag will be to get approximately 80-90% stacked on the lead leg. Same at impact. The weight shift should already be completed before posting and impact. And, virtually little to none at all in the finish.
February 1, 2017
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Larry
Awesome drill! My wrists don't cock as much as yours, but good results happened quickly.
January 30, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Thanks for the post Larry. Glad to hear you are getting positive results.
January 30, 2017
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Larry
Also had lessons from Chris Tyler in Dec. which really put me on the right track. Excellent instructor!
January 30, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Great. Yes, we are lucky to have Chris apart of our team. Keep up the hard work.
January 30, 2017
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Gaetano
On the downswing, is your left lat muscle always engaged? Or only when u are getting impact? When left leg is getting straight, the left lat muscle is engaged and pulling club to impact Thanks, hard to explain
January 29, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Gaetano. The lead lat will be engaged for the majority of the downswing. But, you want to shy away from pulling too hard or yanking the arms/club down.
January 30, 2017
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Casey
Craig, A question about the difference between pulling the arms down and downcocking. I've been told I pull too much with the arms from the top (rightfully so). How can I feel the difference or how can I perform the downcock without pulling too hard from the top. How will I notice the difference on video? I keep the wrists and hand supple so I still maintain some lag.
January 29, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Casey. You need to use the change of direction with the weight shift and supple wrists to help increase the angle. Not solely yanking the arms down too quickly. I would use the 4 Step Golf Swing Lag Builder and Start Downswing Before Completing Backswing. The change in momentum will allow for downcocking with the feeling like the arms stay very quiet or still up top.
January 29, 2017
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Ross
In the new step by step system this video is number 20 in Step 4 Add the Club. Does this drill assist in mastering the first 8 videos in that section (up to the RST 5 Step Drills), or is it for fine tuning after the first 8 videos are mastered? Or something else?
January 28, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Ross. Fine tuning if you notice after the first series of videos you tend to still lose a little lag early and need a little more focus or exaggeration.
January 28, 2017
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Vince
I know this is an very old video and it 'seems' Chuck's beliefs and instruction have been evolving a bit over time, but I'm seeing a disconnect between this one and https://rotaryswing.com/videos/full-swing-advanced/downswing/drill-for-downswing-sequencing. In this video Chuck's lower body is stopped and upper body is moving on a different plane (if at all) than the other video (2:50-3:30 in throwing the impact bag). What I guess I'd like to know if possible is how to take the rotation stuff from the 'other' video, which makes sense to me, and understand how to add the club part to that. Not making the connection mentally among the zillion videos that don't always seem to agree.
January 18, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Vince. Step 2 - 4 (the 4th being with a club) in the 5 Step System allow you to sync the weight shift, body rotation and the lead arm. Or, the Frisbee Drill as a guide.
January 19, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Vince. Step 2 - 4 (the 4th being with a club) in the 5 Step System allow you to sync the body rotation and the lead arm. Or, the Frisbee Drill as a guide.
January 19, 2017
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Deborah
I'm having a hard time keeping my left shoulder down through impact. Does doing this help you hit down on the ball? Anything else I can do or think of to help keep left shoulder down? Any other drills for this? Do you keep left shoulder down when hitting driver?
January 4, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Deborah. Yes, keeping the lead shoulder down should help with hitting down upon strike. Take a look at the Level Shoulders Drill and Taking a Divot Video (for follow up on shaft lean). Also, the lead shoulder may raise a bit with a driver due to ball position and more positive angle of attack.
January 4, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Deborah. Yes, keeping the lead shoulder down should help with hitting down upon strike. Take a look at the Level Shoulders Drill and Taking a Divot Video (for follow up on shaft lean).
January 4, 2017
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Ashar
Hi Now i am trying to hit the ball by shifting my weight on the left side, which brings my hand down and than i hit the ball. Up till 6 iron i am able to hit a good crisp shot but on wards like 5 to 3 iron and driver i am having a very week impact. Help
December 18, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Ashar. What do you mean by weak impact? Flipping the club, lack of shaft lean, lack of weight, etc?
December 18, 2016
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Deborah
Chuck mentions a video called squaring the club face early. Where can I find that video?
November 10, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Deborah. Type Squaring the Club Face Early in the search bar. It should pop up.
November 10, 2016
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Steven
I have been practicing this drill for several weeks now. I have been pausing at the various checkpoints working up to doing this drill continuously but very slowly. I have made a lot of progress and maintain proper lag when going slowly. However as soon as I start trying to increase speed, I start to lose lag. How do I start to build in speed with this drill and still maintain the lag?
November 7, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Steven. Two things. 1) Combine with the use of the Frisbee Drill to help. 2) When adding speed don't rush it from the top. That's where players start to go array. Make sure you keep the smooth transition. The speed burst only happens just before impact.
November 7, 2016
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Steven
Thanks Craig. I think I have been trying to add speed from the top as you have said.
November 7, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Take a look at Martin Kaymer: Releasing for Distance. You will see when the speed happens.
November 7, 2016
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Paul
Keeping the shoulders closed during down cock with driver is very difficult. Doesn't leave enough time to prevent the club from hitting behind the ball? I find it's easy to do the shorter the club. I can stay closed easy with a 9 iron but with the driver not so much. I get the right position with the hands, that is shaft at 90 degrees with hands in front of right thigh and right elbow in front of hip but my shoulders are much more open than with an iron. What am I doing wrong? thanks.
September 16, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Paul. With the driver and the hands properly in front of the trail thigh you say that the shoulders are much more open. Are they still a little shut, square or open to the intended target line?
September 16, 2016
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Paul
Hi Craig, A little bit shut. Not as much as I would like to see. I'm older and stiff so I have some issues with flexibility. Perhaps that's playing a role? I've been working very hard at getting this new swing down. Not an easy task at 63 after swinging from the right for the last 55 years. HA. But it's coming along. I watched a video of Tigers driver swing. He stays very closed until the last minute. Pulls big with the left obliques. Lots of power there. Don't know how he does it. Anyway any thoughts would be appreciated. Thanks.
September 17, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Paul. Flexibility can sometimes play a role. However, I believe you are on to something. The pull with the lead oblique and using the side properly will help some of the issue. Take a look at You Hit the Golf Ball with Your Legs. Let us know if it helps.
September 17, 2016
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Paul
Hi Craig, Not so much. I am doing this. Problem with pushing up too much with the left leg is that my head then moves up too. Don't want that either. Hmm. I'm running out of ideas?
September 17, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Paul. Have you tried lessening the tension in the lead shoulder to allow the arm to swing a little more freely? Take a look at the LADD Video.
September 17, 2016
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Paul
Hi Craig, Well now I am confused. I watched the LADD video. Chuck says to pull the left arm down. But in another video he says to pull the left arm through using the left obliques? My understanding was you supposed to pull the left shoulder in towards you spine while posting. In fact I've been working on that a lot. It really has helped but now I'm hearing pull the left arm down without using the left side? Yikes! What to do? I forgot to mention when Chuck demonstrates pulling the left arm down he's squaring his shoulders. In another video he emphasises keeping the shoulders shut until the hands are in front of the right leg? I'm utterly confused.
September 17, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Paul. The shoulders will be square at impact. Halfway down the hips will square and the shoulders shut to the target. The video wasn't meant to confuse you. The lead side oblique, lat, gravity and the arm help you reach impact. The goal from the LADD was if you restrict or hold the lead arm too much then that might be inhibiting you to reach the position. I was gathering from the notes you might have been holding back the lead arm too much which is why you had to over use the shoulders. The arm will react as you described before the confusion. What I wanted you to lean was allow the lead arm to move don't leave it back and never let it go.
September 17, 2016
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Paul
Hello Craig, Hmm. Not sure I'm following. How would I be holding back my left arm? I don't see it stopping in the video. What should I look for to spot this?
September 18, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Paul. Think of lead arm only swings. If you restrict it (hold it back) from ever swinging then you would have to rotate the shoulders more to reach impact. Kinda like holding it against the body and using the body to square the face versus arms a hand release. Its a blend of gravity and body motion. Watch the flow of the Re-Shaping Your Swing for Lag. You are still using the body properly, but not restricting the lead arm.
September 18, 2016
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Paul
Hi Craig, Okay but I can't find that video?
September 18, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
We recently took out the "-". Try Reshaping Your Golf Swing for Lag. I apologize.
September 18, 2016
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Paul
Hi Craig, Well now I am confused. I watched the LADD video. Chuck says to pull the left arm down. But in another video he says to pull the left arm through using the left obliques? My understanding was you supposed to pull the left shoulder in towards you spine while posting. In fact I've been working on that a lot. It really has helped but now I'm hearing pull the left arm down without using the left side? Yikes! What to do?
September 17, 2016
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Terry
In the full swing do you "pull the hands down" after the weight shift as Chuck describes?
June 29, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Terry. You will use the lead side (oblique and lat) to help bring the arms/hands down in front of the body. Weight, then pull from lead side lat and oblique.
June 29, 2016
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charles
I really like this drill, however when doing it, I don't understand the correct placement of my right elbow relative to my right side and right hip. It appears to me that in the third stop point (hands at right thigh and shaft nearly parallel to the ground) the right elbow is almost toughing the front of the right hip. Should it in the front of the hip, or next to the hip, or what? When I do it, my right elbow tends to be slightly outside or even a little in back of my right hip. Also, is the shaft in line with the target path? May I suggest a down the line view of this same drill? I think it would answer all these questions by providing a second perspective.
April 3, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Charles. You want the trail elbow to work in front of the hip and not get trapped by the trail side. Take a look at the Step by Step Right Arm Drills. When the hands are in front of the trail thigh and club parallel to the ground it will be in line with the target path. To my knowledge we don't have a DTL View. I apologize. If we have one I will notify you.
April 4, 2016
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charles
Thanks for your prompt response. I reviewed the drills you recommended. I still am not quite sure about the proper positions of the right arm during the downswing. I looked at some slo-mo videos with DTL views of Jason Day, Dustin Johnson, and McIlroy. It looks like their right arm from shoulder to elbow are actually connected to (i.e. touching) their right side just in front of their hip all the way to when the club is parallel with the ground. Is that correct?
April 6, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Charles. Also, have a look at the Sledgehammer Drill. More DTL perspectives on the trail arm. The trail arm can glide across the body. You don't want to glue it to your side. When adding elevation in the backswing the trail arm will become disconnected with the body. You will maintain connection with the upper pectoral and bicep, but the elbow will not be touching. Coming down the trail elbow will stay in front of the body if not trapped by body spin. It will appear as though it drops behind. However, it is staying in front. It would be hard for it to be completely in front the entire swing as with the separation of 90 degrees shoulder turn versus 45 with the hips. The arms are staying in front of the chest/sternum.
April 6, 2016
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Shane
With the weight shift .. am loading the right hip line correctly in the first place? Secondly, in the first weight shift part 1 it just seems chuck just describes what needs to happen with the weight moving left no actual drill to accomplish that?With the fixing weight shift video i undestand the baseball pither feel and the external rotation of the left leg but is that all to drill or is there a better drill to give me a stronger sense of the external rotation ? Lastly, it seems like i get so much axis tilt into the ball with a super high left shoulder that my inconsitent ballstriker comes from un level shoulders?
March 26, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Shane. Yes, you need to be loaded into the trail glute to make sure you don't over shift into the lead side. With the Weight Part 1, you have to practice the sequence. The drill is going to the top and using a mirror/camera to train the positions. The lead knee externally rotates a little, but you don't want excessive lead knee external rotation. You want to pull the weight over with lead hip adduction. Take a look at Preventing Hip Pain and the Perfect Impact Videos 2-3 for more visuals or feel to make that happen. Creating too much tilt can definitely affect ball striking. But, in your swing it is more due to how you sequence your downswing and release. You may take a look at the Level Shoulders Drill to understand what too much tilt would look like.
March 26, 2016
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Shane
After submitting my swing review i got about 4 different videos to diagnose my swing flaws. All have a few different drills my question based on the videos and the drills when i practice how do i need to practicing or structure my practice session so i can be most efficient ?and actually gain results now having id the issues in my swing from my review ?
March 25, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Shane. Take a look at the Perfect Practice Makes Perfect Video. It will provide what you are looking for or trying to achieve in any given practice session. What I would work on first in your swing. Getting the weight shift and sequence starting down properly. Follow the guidelines in the Weight Shift Video Part 1. If you struggle still with weight (use the Fixing Your Weight Transfer). Once, you can get pretty proficient at starting down properly. Exaggerate the positions as we talked about with the transition drill. Now, that the whole downswing sequence and body should be mastered. Get to work on that release.
March 25, 2016
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Tom
Hi Craig, After I shift to the top and downcock most of my weight (80%) should be on my left leg. Correct? Then bring my hands to the inseam of my left thigh using my left obliques. Thanks!
March 17, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Tom. After you shift from the top and add some downcock approx. 80% will be in the lead side. You will use a little of the obliques (torso rotation) and lead arm to pull yourself into the exaggerated lag position.
March 17, 2016
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Tom
Hi Craig, I've been working diligently on the Wt. Shift Part 2, 3 Funct. of the Arm in the Backswing and the Rt. knee Downswing Drill. I then went back to the Transition drill you have had me work on in the past. In the 3 Funct. of the Right arm I am working on keeping my right atm straight longer. In the Rt. Knee Downswing drill it seems if I keep my right knee toed in a little my right knee stays straight on my backswing and downswing. I have also tried to use some of the concepts from Swinging from the ground up. My old golf mat really is getting wrinkled as I am getting more leverage from the ground. Does the above make sense and would it appear that I am on the right track? Thanks again!
February 28, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Tom. It makes sense, but be careful restraining the knee joint too much going back. I don't want it bearing all the load. If you are getting good load into the glute and there isn't too much exerted pressure on the knee. No worry.
February 29, 2016
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Tom
I am working on narrowing my stance, keeping my left shoulder down while working to improve lag. I think I have found out why I have been having a lot of problems keeping my left shoulder low as I transition down. I have not been rotating around my spine. So, I have been shifting my hips, not transferring my weight or something and this does not allow me to keep my shoulder low. (I also finally bought a mirror at Walmart yesterday which helps with immed. feedback. I have been using my iPad but I have to been and review it too much.) If you are reading this Craig, does this make sense based on the reviews of the swing you have made? P.S. - How do I take my videos and complete my own self-analysis and compare my swing to a pros? Thanks again!
January 23, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Tom. It is always me reading the forum . Yes, that does make sense to me. You need to rotate around the spine properly. However, make sure you are allowing the lead arm to swing from shoulder joint. Don't drop the trail shoulder in an effort to shallow or create lag. Use the Self Analysis Tool at the top/middle of this page. You can upload a swing (under 30 secs) and compare to any of our model swings.
January 23, 2016
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Jim
Message From the top of my backswing, how can I keep my arms in sequence dropping on the weigh shift to my left side, my hands continuing to my right thigh then hands releasing at the ball? I am inconsistent with this. I watched Chuck's video on transition which helped. Just struggling with a way to quiet my arms. Thanks. Jim (jnawn@aol.com)
January 1, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jim. Take a look at the Winter Series Downswing Video and the How to Swing from the Ground Up. Both will help with the shift and proper arm swing. Especially the Ground Video because it will focus on shifting will making sure not to race the arms.
January 2, 2016
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Tom
In order to gain lag I am pretty sure that as I transition down I have been attempting to lock my wrists to maintain lag. In one of Clay Ballard's(sp?) video lessons he says that you should never lock your wrists or attempt to maintain lag. During this Transition drill video it feels like I am doing just that. Any thoughts?
December 17, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Tom. You want to try and shy away from too much tension in the wrist. You will tend to cast the club (Physics Part 1, Using the Wrist for Speed Part 5). As you work on this drill keep the wrist supple. Don't lock them.
December 17, 2015
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Rob
Hi guys, Is the transition of the lower body to start the downswing the same process mentioned in the squat to square video? My latest review showed I was keeping my hips closed at impact with a very steep downswing. My instructor recommended both of these videos. I guess I am just looking for confirmation that following both videos is proving similar instruction. Thank you, Rob
December 16, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Rob. Yes, the transition is still the same with the weight shift being the first move to initiate the downswing. However, if you are keeping the hips too closed at impact with a steep swing. I would suggest the How to Swing from the Ground Up Video and the Over the Top Stick Drill to help shallow.
December 16, 2015
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Andrew
I am confused from watching different videos on downswing. Is the first move down the left knee pulling to the left to get into neutral joint alignment and squaring hips (there is a little shift left here but hips are now square and left hip is not all the way over to neutral joint alignment yet) or should there be a lateral move left to neutral joint alignment where hips are still at 45deg closed to target line until knee and hip get to neutral joint alignment before rotating hips? Thanks.
November 2, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Andrew. The lead knee has to externally rotate a little bit for you to get in a good stacked NJA position. The first step will be the lead knee externally rotates to get directly over the ankle joint and you will pull yourself over with lead hip adduction. Then, the lead oblique will then start to pull the hips open.
November 2, 2015
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Manuel
I had a question on how this relates to the driver. When I look at Tiger's driver swing face on, he does not have the club parallel. I analyzed mine too just for reference. My question is, does this apply to the driver? With the shorter clubs I don't have as much trouble. The driver is the club I struggle to get into correct impact position. Thanks!
November 2, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Manny. The Driver is a specialty club and the angle of attack is typically different than any other one in the bag. Some players adjust different aspects of their downswing for that reason. Your goal still should be the club parallel to the ground in front of the trail thigh to maximize angle retention into the strike. But, you need to adjust some of the setup to use at full potential. Take a look at the Driver Setup Adjustments Video and the Driver Launch Angle Video.
November 2, 2015
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Maximilian
Hello RST, i made some swing changes. Maybe you can help me to comment my new feeling. First i load my right leg combined with the takeaway. Then i swing my arms up. After that i shift my weight just a little bit and now the keymove for me is really really slow down my body, so that my arms can come back in front of me. It feels very good. I can fire my right arm because i have much more space in front of my chest. I must really focus on not spinning my hips and shoulders. In an other video discribed "my body feels very closed or shut to the target". The only thing i´m a little bit struggeling is to do this with my left arm only but with both hands on the club. I mean just the feeling that i do everthing with my left arm/hand only. Then i start to do my old habbits and spin my left shoulder. I dont know why. Do you have any advice?
September 29, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Maximilian. Use the Proper Muscle Activation Video and the Fix Your Release to feel proper swinging from the lead shoulder joint. Also, the Sledgehammer Video to help keep the trail shoulder passive while working the trail arm correctly.
September 29, 2015
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Terry
I am at my wits end trying to maintain the lag. THe view Chuck shows where his lag angle is at 45 degrees when his hands get to his right leg is what my lag is. I've done the drills for over 3 weeks but can't get past the 45 degrees when going to a full swing. Do you have any other suggestion as to how I can hang onto that lag longer? During my lesson with Chuck, I did the left hand only drill. THe lag was there and was ok. Adding the right hand has been problematic and I can't get past it. Should there a conscious effort to keep the right hand cocked well into the downswing?
August 24, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Terry. Have you tried training a little of your right hand and side? Take a look at the Step by Step Right Arm Drills. You might need to undergo a little training of calming him down.
August 24, 2015
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Cavan
Hi Craig - in working the transition in the recommends 'chunk' fashion. I've noticed on video that my swing plane is steepening as a sit into the left side and begin the downswing. Is my right shoulder pushing / I'm not down cocking properly? Is there a video you can recommend that can help me shallow out my plane instead of steepening it as I squat / shift to the left side? Thanks!
August 8, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Cavan. The Proper Muscle Activation, LADD and Stop Coming Over the Top will help you with shift and shallow. It's more likely that you are just zeroing out your plane with the lead arm work.
August 10, 2015
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Cavan
Many thanks!
August 10, 2015
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Juan
Hey. I am that guy you described, throwing my entire body into the shot and making it go nowhere. I got into the rut of hitting most of my irons pretty much the same distance. I did a face on video and was amazed that I totally had NO LAG at waist high coming down. This Transition Drill and Down Cock drill took me from an embarrassing 135 yd 7-iron to my old 150 yards. My ball flight is back. Thank You.
August 2, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Juan. Fantastic. Thanks for the post. Let's keep that swing improving!
August 3, 2015
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joseph
Where does Chris Tyler's video on straight leg at impact fit into this drill. Do we practice it during the release part of this drill?
June 25, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Joseph. I wouldn't worry about pulling leverage from the ground if you are losing lag early. It will only complicate things. Once you can master maintaining more angle then worry about maximizing it to full extent by leveraging the lead leg/knee.
June 25, 2015
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joseph
what do you mean by "it will only complicate things"? What happens if I lose lag but then post up like Chris? I think the answer is an extreme flip - which seems to be happening to me.
June 26, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Joseph. Yes, if you are losing lag coming down too early and then you start to leverage the ground (Chris Video). You will have a tendency to flip versus release.
June 26, 2015
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Matthew
For me I spin my shoulders a little bit yet I still maintain lag very well. My miss is an unreleased shot or a block usually.
April 9, 2015
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Steven (Certified RST Instructor)
Matthew, to help stop the spinning of your shoulder in the downswing there is 2 things we can do. 1st-do left arm only swing (assuming RH). This will teach you to pull with the lead side and since we are only pulling, we will not be able to spin out with the shoulders, 2nd as you coming down into impact feel like your right shoulder (again assuming RH) is staying behind your right ear down into impact. Both those will greatly help you stop spinning your shoulders and get you to release the club properly and get rid of the block. Steven
April 9, 2015
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Greg
Hi RJ, Got a tough one. I recently signed on to take some lessons at golf tec. Part of the reason for doing so is because there are no rotary swing instructors in the Twin cities, MN. One advantage is I can use there real time video to practice. Through the lessons on the rotary site for the take away, I am now on plain on the take away. I reach a point in my backswing where my position is great to start the down swing, but from at that point I continue to slightly raise the triangle formed by my elbows and the butt of the club. This results in a very steep downswing and a slightly over the top club path. Also at waist high the lag is good but by the time I reach my right thigh I have lost most of my lag. I get good shaft lean at contact, but it looks like the rerouting I need to do from the top of the swing causes bad things happen. When I swing back to the proper position in slow motion and then initiate the downswing the club falls on the proper plain. I have restricted my hip turn, taken the club back with the right arm to avoid pushing with the left, swung back sensing no breakdown of the right arm, pulled my right shoulder blade down and back, and tried to swing back maintaining contact with the right bicep. Nothing has worked. The closest I came was using Chuck's suggestion of feeling like I was flipping a coin over my shoulder. Any suggestions? When one addresses the ball, there is a sense of the right bicep against the chest. If you swing the arms back in sink with the torso and you are trying to keep the right arm extended, won't the bicep pull away from the chest or are you trying to maintain some contact. I must admit I am a little confused about keeping the right arm extended and the need to keep the bicep connected and the right shoulder down and back, which would seem to draw the right arm in.
April 8, 2015
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
Greg, the problem is... you're swinging your arms. The arms should be moved by the rotation of your shoulders, from moving the shoulder blade down and in towards the spine. If your right bicep is pulling away from your pectoral muscle, it's likely that you're pushing across or pull away with your arms. Now, if you allow your left arm to internally rotate and your right arm to externally rotate as you take the club back until the point where your right hand is in a position similar to a waiter holding a tray of food or drinks (or where the back of the hand is parallel to the ground), then your elbow will remain tucked in and your arm will not pull away from your body. This will keep you on plane and help you get your hands back in front of your body in the downswing, which will help keep the lag. Aside from that, just relax the tension and watch Chuck's new frisbee drill in the latest videos section. R.J.
April 8, 2015
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Greg
HI Rj, It seems on the backswing we are pulling the club back around our spine but on the downswing it seems that the club and arms are moving in a vertical nature with very little rotation of the upper torso to impact. The hips are squaring up but upper torso motion is very different then its motion on the backswing. Is this correct?
April 7, 2015
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
Greg, indeed, sir. In the backswing, we focus on rotating our body with our shoulder turn. However, in the downswing we focus on rotating our body with the hip turn. So, when we are rotating back in the backswing, after shifting our weight to the inside of the right foot, we turn the shoulders back behind us by pulling the right shoulder blade down and in towards the spine, keeping the right arm as straight as possible for as long as possible (most people bend the right elbow way too early), this will automatically start rotating the hips after the takeaway if the glutes are properly activated to stabilize the hips. In the downswing, after shifting our weight over top of the left ankle, we begin to rotate the left hip back behind us, this will pull the arms and shoulders around after the hips are square to the ball. From this point, we post up the left leg and release the club. R.J.
April 8, 2015
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Peter
I've viewed this video several times now and a key point for me which was brought out was the way the left shoulders moves - which to me is a key move I wasn't doing - it trying to implement this move to me it feels like i'm coming over the top which i'm not really does feel like I'm. What i do notice when i move my left shoulder lower my right arm falls into the proper location easier. I worked a lot harder and often had a earlier release than if made this move correctly. For me such a small point but will have a major impact for me becoming a better ball striker. Peter San Antonio Texas
April 6, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Peter. Great! This is a very important video to understand how to bring the club correctly into impact. Happy to hear good results.
April 6, 2015
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Rod
HI. I am a little confused. In the drill the lag angle is being held by the left wrist. In the full swing we should have soft muscles and no tension in our arms or wrists, we should not try to hold on to the lag angle, correct?
April 3, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Rod. Yes, you don't want to have a death grip or add too much tension. You can keep the wrist soft and pull a little more with the lead arm. This is for exaggeration purposes. If you really give up some control, you can create a crazy amount of angle into the strike.
April 3, 2015
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Peter
First of all thank you for this great video, I've doing these drills since my last video review. My question for you - my right arm is 2 inches shorter than my left arm, due to a injury I had when i was younger, Well this didn't hinder my baseball career it seems to be hurting my extension of my arms and hitting down through the ball. So when i use the many great drill you have I'm hampered by my right arm not being able to extended. Hence preventing me from a striking the ball the way you and all the pro's hit through the ball. Any advise? I'm sure it's hard to understand what i'm trying to communicate without seeing me in person, i am taking on-line lessons but even that you really can't see my right arm. Pete from San Antonio
March 26, 2015
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Peter
R.J., thanks for your suggestions however, turning to a left handed but at the age of 60 is most likely not going to happen especially since i'm such a right handed dominant player. i will try the two figure grip and see how this goes, i hoping to be able get both my arm completely extended through impact. i know i'm losing distance and good ball striking capability. It's frustrating to me especially since i work at my game so hard.
March 27, 2015
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
You could alleviate the grip pressure issue by overlapping the fingers instead of interlocking them. I don't know why I didn't think of that in the first place. R.J.
March 27, 2015
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
Peter, have you ever given any thought to spinning around and learning how to play left-handed? I know it's an extreme thought and it would take a lot of neural re-education, but you're in a unique situation where it may be easier for you in the long run. Another thought might be to interlock two fingers instead of the standard one, that would even things up a little bit for you. I just went outside and tried the two interlocking fingers. If you go this route you're going to want to make two adjustments: one, you're losing your middle finger on the left hand to grip the club with so, you're going to want to get your clubs re-gripped with a couple more wraps at the butt end of your club to taper the grip more so that the club doesn't slip out of your hands and two, you're going to have to drive the release with the left hand more because the right hand is going to want to be more active in the release with that grip. R.J.
March 27, 2015
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Jeff
I think this video should be part of the "downswing" section. I would put it right after the "Move 3-The Downswing" video. It's the best video I've found on the website for how to get the hands into the proper position to hit the ball.
March 1, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Thanks Jeff. I'm glad to hear it is helping you!
March 3, 2015
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Jeff
I'm serious, it should be put somewhere it can be found more easily. I found it by accident two days ago and I've been on the site daily for four months.
March 3, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Jeff. I believe you. I recommend this video all the time to my students.
March 3, 2015
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C.Y.
Hi, As I squat to square, my hip turns to help the down-cock. Should I continue turning the hip to bring the hands down to the right thigh or just use the arms only to bring them down? Thanks
February 23, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello C.Y. You can use a little lead oblique pull with the arms to help achieve the trail thigh position.
February 24, 2015
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Norman
Hi Guys, how do I incorporate the throw the ball drill with this drill. Thanks.
February 21, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Norman. The Throw the Ball Drill is typically for the player that has an issue retaining too much lag. This drill is geared towards the player that need to train retaining more lag into the strike. The right arm does add speed in the downswing. But, the majority of players over use their right hand. This works on taking some of the right hand motion out and keeping the lag longer on the way down.
February 21, 2015
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LEE
I tend to hit an inch fat...what do you think might be causing this
February 16, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Lee. Take a look at the Taking a Divot Video in the Advanced Downswing Section. Make sure you have proper weight transfer, forward shaft lean and lag retention to get that dollar bill divot.
February 16, 2015
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Jukka
What are weigt distribution in each step when doing this drill. Top off the backswing>squat> right tie> impact> followthrow?
February 9, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jukka. Shift into the lead glute and add downcock. Pull arms in front of lead thigh. Let the club release.
February 16, 2015
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Michael
Craig, in the video Chuck mentions two things that it takes to learn this transition, time and patience. My question is, since I am working to ingrain this new swing transition, should I stay away from the golf course for a while? If not, what should I do while out on the course to help this process along?
February 5, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Michael. It does take some time to train new motor patterns. I don't like to tell anyone to stay away from the course because free time and play time are hard to come by these days. Nevertheless, to speed up a little of the progress. Stick to the range and mirror as much as you can until the move is ingrained. While you are on the course just stay focused on what you are trying to achieve. Don't get to caught up in the process of where the ball is going, but how the arms are working down. The ball will take care of itself with the proper move.
February 5, 2015
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Michael
Will do, Thanks!
February 6, 2015
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Mark
In the transition drill, Chuck has indicated that the downcock at the top of the backswing occurs at the same time as the shift to the left. Clay Ballard's video re lag indicates that the shift to the left begins just before reaching the top. Is it ok to time the shift to the left as Chuck has indicated or does it need to start earlier. Also, Chuck move to the left in the transition drill appears to result in a straight left leg well before impact. Is my interpretation correct?
February 1, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Mark. It is perfectly ok to create as Chuck describes. Both will result in a straight left leg at impact. In Clay's version momentum change is a great way to create lag. I.E. Starting the downswing before you complete the backswing. Think about it like a car. If you are in reverse and slam it into drive. You get thrown against the back of the seat. That same type of momentum change is like creating lag. The club moving closer to the body on the downswing. You can use either method. The downswing will start just before the completion of the backswing. But, you can feel rotating back, shift, and be very passive with the trail side and retain a good amount of lag.
February 3, 2015
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Mark
Does making the proper takeaway assist in directly bringing the downswing to the front of the right thigh checkpoint as shown in the transition drill video. Stated otherwise, can this move to the right thigh be viewed as one move from the top of backswing generated from a perfect takeaway to the right thigh or is it best to focus on two checkpoints and two points the swing must pass through?
January 31, 2015
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
Mark, When first learning a new movement pattern, it is always best to break it down to as small of chunks as possible. Once you get better at the move, challenge yourself and blend more of the moves together at a quicker pace. If you mess it up, stop, think why the mistake happened, back up and go back to the smaller movements, building your way back up to the speed where the mistake occurred. Repeat until you can do the full movement without flaw at full speed. You're right about the takeaway causing a proper downswing in that each movement or position makes the next easier to complete. A good stance helps produce a good takeaway. A good takeaway helps produce a good backswing and so on. So the effect is not immediate, but it has a direct relationship in producing the movement. Best of luck in playing some great golf! R.J.
January 31, 2015
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thomas
Message for Jared, Went out played 18 holes. I learned one thing out there about my back swing today. If I rehearse the blend of the back swing before I actually hit the ball it works . Hit a lot of good irons drives and 3woods . Thanks Tom
January 2, 2015
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Jared (Certified RST Instructor)
That's great Tom! Pre-shot routines are key to playing better, and you might have found yours!
January 3, 2015
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Greg
Hi R.J., From the top of the backswing, when you make the initial move down is the left arm moving straight down while the arms start to rotate the club to square and trying to zero the path out? I'm having trouble with the concept of how the arms move into a lag position when your left hip bumps and rotates. If the arms move straight down with the hip bump or squat to square, doesn't the club path become too steep? Perhaps you can describe your feelings during your downswing with the left hip, left shoulder and left arm. Is there a move in golf which like swinging a baseball bat, you feel the weight shift creating an increased wrist cock? Should I feel that the left hip pulls the left shoulder and arm down and with that creates more or at least maintains the wrist cock? Thanks!
November 19, 2014
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
Greg, You always have great questions! This answer will most likely be lengthy so bare with me. Alright so, let's start with just before the end of the backswing. We are folding our right arm up towards the sky and our wrists are beginning to cock more. At this point, you want to shift your weight to the left side and start to sit into your left butt cheek. By time you're fully loaded at the top of your backswing, your weight should be fully loaded into the left side and your weight is squatted down. This change in direction as the club is still moving upward as you slide forward and squat downward is what is going to start the feeling that the weight of the club is now trailing behind you (a.k.a. lag). This is why it is important to have a brisk backswing (don't rush it) and to not pause at the top of the backswing. There are two moments in the golf swing where the club head speed starts to increase greatly. When you change directions at the top, club is going up and back as the body goes down and forward, this changes all of the energy stored from the width in the backswing into momentum in the downswing. This is why we don't need a lot of force at the top of the downswing, we're already picking up a lot of club head speed from our sequencing. The second moment when the club head speed greatly increases is when we release the club down and through the ball as the left hip is moving up and back as the lead leg extends. Resist tilting the spine back away from the target or straightening up or pulling your hips away from the tush line during this move, or you'll ruin the affect the power that you build up. When you start to squat your weight down, make sure you don't turn it into an exercise squat where the torso begins to get vertical. Maintain spine angle. It will feel like your butt is sticking out behind you even more when you do it properly. Pull the hips square with the obliques and lats and finish your squat move. Make absolute certain that the spine angle is maintained. You should be feeling like you're trying to keep your arms up at their original position during the squaring motion. It is impossible to actually leave them up there, but it will feel like you are. Make sure the arms are staying inside the left shoulder, which means you are giving yourself room for your left arm to swing underneath the shoulder joint. That's what Chuck means by pulling them straight down. The muscles that pull the hips square will pull your arms down, don't actively fire the shoulders yet or the club and your arms will start to pull away from your body, losing lag. Externally rotate the leading thigh open and pull the left hip around and back. Your right hip at this point should be heading towards where the left hip was originally during the squat. You don't want your right hip drifting towards the ball. If you look at yourself from the "Up the line" view, you'll see that your left hip is not over top of your ankle joint, you'll want your lead leg to be slanted backwards from the "up the line" view. However, from the face on view, you still want your joints to be aligned over the lead ankle joint. This pulling of the hips around behind you will pull your hands in front of the trailing thigh. The club should be parallel to the ground at this point, your right elbow should be in front of your right hip, not making contact with your body, but feel like the forearms are still pretty close to each other like they were at the top of the backswing. The left arm should be underneath the left shoulder joint, if they are pulling away from the body, then you'll need to drop the club straight down in order to get the club on the ball, which will be a steep AOA with the hosel of the club being presented to the ball first as your shaft is above the plane... a.k.a. slice city! From this point, extend the leading leg and straighten out the right elbow at the same time and release the snot out of the club! Make sure you extend out in front of you in the follow through to ensure that you released all of the energy and lag into the ball, and then everything from there in the follow through is just the safest way for our body to decelerate the club, which is a natural reaction to everything that just happened. If you swing your arms really fast up to your body in the follow through, then you didn't extend out with your arms enough. If you extend your arms completely in the follow through, the club head will decelerate a lot. Here are some great videos that really helped turn the light bulb on for me when I was trying to learn how to sequence my downswing: http://www.rotaryswing.com/videos/tour-pros/sang-moon-bae-hips-for-lag http://www.rotaryswing.com/videos/fault-fixes/coming-over-the-top/maintain-posture-merry-go-round-drill-ffcot http://www.rotaryswing.com/videos-for-you/latest-videos?latest=112008 I hope that this helps you out. Good luck in your progress! R.J.
November 19, 2014
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Reijo
I have had the famous "spinning" problem and thus the lag has been a problem to me. Would you recommend to practice this lag drill with 7 iron or maybe longer clubs like 3 wood etc. ? Are there going to be problems with driver if lag is done in the similar manner ? By the way, thanks for this great site. I ´ve learned more about a golf swing in a month than the previous five years.
October 19, 2014
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
Reijo, Lag is determined by the angle of the right forearm and the shaft of the club. The length of the club is irrelevant. The club reacts to the way that your body moves, not the other way around. If you're having troubles spinning out watch the Sang-Moon Bae Hips for Lag video in the new videos section R.J.
October 20, 2014
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Jason
At about 2 minutes in Chuck talks about bringing the club to your thigh. I've heard this in other videos and I think I've ignored it. As someone who steepens their club path on transition and hits a lot of pulls I started to try and get more under plane. I've heard other coaches talk about the arms dropping which lays off the club, but Chuck seems to describe it more as direct movement of the arms down versus just letting them dropping and laying off the club. Just curious to see if that is correct and if that makes sense. I messed around some with it and Chucks way seems to sync up better with the body.
October 1, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jason. It is a blend. A little bit of gravity and pull from the lead side. Take a look at the Proper Muscle Activation Video in the Advanced Introduction Section to see the lead arm use both.
October 1, 2014
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Niall
Should the butt end of the club be pointing down at the ball target line when the left arm is parallel to the ground in the downswing? is this a good reference point in the downswing?
September 12, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Niall. Yes, that will be a good reference.
September 12, 2014
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bob
In the first phase of this drill the downcock. Where, when viewed from dtl should i look to have the shaft plane in relation to my right shoulder?, Then where at parallel to the ground should the club be in relation to my toe line?
August 25, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Bob. It will be slightly below the right shoulder coming down and parallel to the ground just a bit outside the toe line. Feel free to upload your swing for review. We would be happy to check your plane out for you.
August 25, 2014
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Mike
I want to share a frustration that has always plagued my golf swing that I only learned about when I found RST. I'm a quintessential hip spinner (well, not as much anymore), and I did everything wrong just as Chuck outlines it in this video. I had no idea what caused the pathetically weak blocks I always hit, or why I was so short, why I often felt I had to really flip my wrists at impact to even get the ball going slightly in the right direction. I read golf books, magazines, took lessons here and there and watched golf on TV. Golf felt like the ancient religion of Gnosticism; golf was a special hidden knowledge for only a few of the enlightened to know. Otherwise it was shrouded in mystery. I was recently reading a piece in Golf Magazine that thew new RST me drove me nuts. It talks about research at the Titleist Performance Institute, and that they've studied swings minutely in every conceivable way trying to discover the secret to what they call the "power angle" or what we refer to as lag. Do you know what conclusion they came to as the most effective way to retain the angle or lag? Here I quote, "First fire your hips at the start of the downswing, then your torso and harms and finally the club." Seriously? Do these people now know physics or how the body works? Firing the hips as been my disease probably since I first took up the game and made my golf experience increasingly future, that is until now! And the frustration I mentioned above is not just with this article but with so much golf instruction and commentary. They aren't the only ones to promote the firing of the hips, and how fast your hips should move to create club head speed, bla, bla, bla. I just wanted to share this because there has to be a lot of people who are part of the RST community who feel the same way and have similar experiences. Thanks.
August 17, 2014
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David
Amen Brother! I spent hundreds of dollars on on Somax! I bought the Somax Power Hip Trainer, videos and stopped when Robert Prichard, the founder, wanted $8,000 to attend his muscle microfiber reduction program to increase my flexibility. Rober Prichard's youtube video convolutes physics to golf. He's rationale was faster the hip rotation the longer the distance. Not so in my experience. As a 20+ year sales/marketing professional, RST...you need to market yourselves better! Your visibility and top of mind awareness is not enough! RST has a solution..a tangible, experiential, positive outcome solution that so many other golf instructor yahoos don't have!
September 29, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Mike. We appreciate you sharing your story and enlightening the members out there. Most of golf instruction is to sell magazines or quick fix gimmicks. Blah, blah, blah. Give me the why's is golf? Don't just tell me its what you see and do it.
August 17, 2014
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John
On the first move down, I tend to get the club too vertical to the ground. Early rotation of my forearms seems to make it worse. How do I get the right down cock while keeping the shaft on plane? Thanks
August 16, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello John. You need to shallow out properly with the weight shift and lead arm rotation. Take a look at the LADD Video and the Stop Coming Over the Top Video in the Downswing Section to get that club on plane!
August 17, 2014
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Carver
been working a lot on weight shift to the left, planting left heel, then pulling with left oblique'. All of this has increased my swing speed dramatically. In watching the Transition Drill, there is no mention of clearing the left hip by pulling with oblique's as you bring the arms down..almost keeping the hips closed. I assume this is because the drill is done so slowly? As the speed picks up the oblique's will be pulling? I have worked hard on this and I assume it is correct.
August 5, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Yes, Carver you are correct. At speed the oblique will be aiding in pulling the hip open. Great to see about your club head speed! Keep it up.
August 5, 2014
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Seth
Been drilling this for quite sometime and can't really get a faster paced sequence with out really thinking about it. Having a some trouble getting out of the clunky portion, and getting to where its slow and smooth, any suggestions? Thanks
July 30, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
The Re-Shaping Your Swing for Lag in the Introduction Section should help with getting a smooth flow.
July 30, 2014
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Tom
For a right handed player at the top of the swing, what is the role or what should the position of the left hand thumb be? (at address, the V of the left hand points toward the shoulder and the thumb is crossing the center line of the club) I have found that I have some wear marks on the thumb pad of my glove meaning I must be supporting the club at the top of the swing with the thumb. Is this incorrect?
July 19, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
The "V" at address with the left hand should be pointing in-between the right shoulder and head. You may be gripping incorrectly or pushing with the thumb. Take a look at the Golf Grip How to Video in the Setup Section to correct the wear. Also, check out the Left Thumb Pain Video in the Advanced Downswing Section. You could be pushing with it.
July 19, 2014
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Douglas
Hi, When you are shifting the 1" to the right on the back swing then the 3" to the left on the forward swing to the proper position for the hips to rotate, what is or should the head do? does it go back with the weight shift and then forward with the forward shift or are both of these shifts done only with the hips/weight and the head is kept as still as possible or as close to it's starting position as possible?? And finally can a ball flight that starts left and then draws further left be due to getting in front of the ball w/ones head or starting down from the top before the hips?? Thanks!
July 16, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Douglas. The head will move slightly with the weight shift. But, the goal would be to keep it as steady as possible and shift mainly with the glutes and hips. Yes, both can cause the error in ball flight. Make sure you are using the pulling/lead side to shallow out the plane versus steepening it with the right. Take a look at the Stop Coming Over the Top Video in the Downswing Section for more information.
July 16, 2014
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Seth
after having a great weight shift I tend to pull the ball and it has a downward movement. I think this might be happening: - lead leg straightening in the downswing too early, while the arms haven't caught up - trail shoulder and hip not staying back long enough - overdoing the release and getting the hood of the club on the ball I will submit for a review as well, but wanted to put it up on the forum as well. Thanks
June 25, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Could be a combination of both. You could be overdoing the release, while letting the trail shoulder worked to much in front.
June 25, 2014
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Seth
Thanks Craig, with the lead leg straightening does that more of less happen and the same time as the arms dropping down or should be more sequenced?
June 25, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
The lead leg will be straightening more when releasing the speed at impact. More sequenced. Get the weight on the left. Arms in front. And as you pull and release into impact the lead leg with start to straighten.
June 27, 2014
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Todd
Dear , Chuck I am a member of your site. While searching some golf site today I came across some thing that might interest you. You have been copied to the "T" a golf site in Spain called 'GOOFY LOOPY GOLF" has taken all of your hard work, and it looks to me, like they are calling it their own. These guys even use some of the same words you to describe different feeling people may have while working on drills. Well they say copying some on is the greatest form of flattery. in this case it looks like thievery. let me know what you think.
June 17, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Todd. We are well aware of this "classy" site. Cough Cough. Your points are spot on.
June 17, 2014
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ciaran
I'm having some problems with the transition. When I approach the top of the backswing and try to engage my left hip abductor, I can't feel it. Its as if it becomes disabled. This seems to happen if my left knee drifts inwards during the backswing. To counter this I resist the backswing with my left leg, ensuring my left knee points straight out all the way to the back of the backswing (which consequentially shortens the backswing). This keeps my left hip abductor activated during the backswing. It also makes it a little bit easier to perform the hip pull (although I am still having difficulties). Am I on the right track?
June 13, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Ciaran. Keeping the Left Knee Stable going back is a good thing. It sounds like your on the right track. Over rotating and getting the left knee pointed too far behind you on the backswing will make it difficult to pull back the the left side.
June 27, 2014
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David
I have a question about the wrist rotation. The video shows that it brings the club face to a slightly closed position at the end of the second stage (the stages being downcock, pulling the arms down, and release), but when does it happen? Is it mostly during the downcock, mostly during the second stage, or split pretty evenly between the two?
May 27, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
The downcock is increasing the set at the top of the swing and may give the look of closing the face. At the point of transition the wrists will begin to rotate gradually into the downswing into the hitting area.
May 27, 2014
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Robert
In an ideal world, would it be better to give up playing golf at least in the early stages of working with the Rotary Swing program?
May 20, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Bob, in an ideal world yes. But, we know that free time is hard to find these days and when you get a chance to play you want to play. The usual mantra is that every day spent playing, affect 2 days of practice work. If you want to play, try and keep in mind at least one goal your trying to change, so all the hard work you put in won't be erased.
May 20, 2014
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hamilton
Obviously, the more I repeatedly view this video the more I get connected with the fine points. Lately, I've been able to feel a little wrist rotation, when the club gets back to parallel, to square the club face, while maintaining lag. That has made my contact much more consistent and the feel is awesome. Thanks for pointing that out in the video, I feel it has been very important in improving the consistence of my ball direction.
May 14, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Awesome to hear buzz!!! Keep up the good work
May 14, 2014
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Chris
I think that this drill helps a lot and I have been working on it at home and on the range. But, I do have a question. Chuck's breakdown of the downswing into three activities - downcock, lag at parallel, and release - is a great way to conceptualize the downswing; however, I feel like it is sort of like that scene out of "Back to School" where Rodney Dangerfield's character is taking his final exams and he has to answer one question from one of his professors: with 27 parts. That's kind of how I think about the downswing. So, my question is: where in this drill are the left obliques rotating (for the right hander). I would think that it is in the motion after the downcock where the club is being pulled into a parallel position to the ground and during the release, since that is how the left leg is actually straightened and the tush line can be maintained. That is how I've been drilling the movement. Am I right, or misleading myself?
May 12, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Very strong analogy on that one hahahah!!! The left obliques are working as soon as the shift left happens. They are working to pull the left hip away from the target and creating rotation in the torso which is moving the hands and arms back out in front of the body. Otherwise it sounds like you have a pretty clear picture is to what is going on. You dont need to jam or pull the arms down when working in transition. You want more to think of the arms falling off the shoulder line as you are pulling from the left side. That works the hands and arms into the release point of the swing.
May 12, 2014
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Richard
Having been a caster my whole life I can't find a way to generate any power when I perform this drill stopping at the down cock and right thigh. If I go continuously all the way thru impact there is almost no lag. I uploaded a video "downcock" which exemplifies this. I know lag works because I watched some qualifiers for the US open this week and I was amazed at the sound of impact and the sound of the ball travelling thru the air. I have to get this right.
May 7, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Richard, lag is a very important part of the swing for leverage. It is important that you identify why the club is losing its angle too quickly in the hitting area. I can be from you pushing on the shaft with the right hand/arm or even the left thumb pushing on the shaft. Check out 5 minutes to a perfect release and get that down first, then work back to try and build lag in the correct way.
May 7, 2014
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Jason
Chuck talks about the downswing being like a crescendo in another video. Is the idea of the downcock here to essentially let the arms be pretty weightless and let them drop, not fire (something I struggle with), then gradually build force to the point where we are pulling through and releasing? So the 2nd step here after the downcock is the arms starting to take over and pull the club through to release?
April 23, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Yeah that is a good way to think about the next step in the sequence. The hands and the arms will fall from the shoulder line as the left elbow is pulling the club down the target line and into the release point.
April 23, 2014
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david
How do I enter my premium sight from the start?
April 10, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey David. Sorry for the late reply. For some reason your question didn't process through the server properly. I apologize. I'm sure you've already figured this out. Nevertheless, please use the Contact Us link at the bottom of this page and contact customer support. They will be more than happy to assist you.
June 27, 2014

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