Golf Tips » June 2002: Keep the Shoulders “Square” to Hit It Straight!

In my March 2002 golf tip, I spoke about the role of the right forearm during the downswing. I have noticed that a few students still cut across the ball while working on this drill. This is because they do not understand the role of the shoulders during the downswing. Remember this:

THE CLUBHEAD WILL ALWAYS TRAVEL IN THE DIRECTION OF THE SHOULDERS.

(1. Correct position of right forearm.)

Even when in the correct position I showed in picture #3 of the March tip students would rotate the shoulders from this position causing the club to get in front of the hands and still “come over the top”. So, let’s resolve this issue once and for all!

(2. Right shoulder has moved out.)

Do not allow the shoulders to rotate, but keep the right shoulder back as long as possible.

(3. Right shoulder stays back.)

(4. Impact, shoulders square.)

Once the club has reached the impact position, the shoulders should still be “square” and only after impact do the shoulders rotate out of the way.

(5. Torso rotates through.)

Work on a “short” version of this with a pitching wedge or 9 iron until you get comfortable, and then move up through to the driver. Once you understand this principal your accuracy should really improve.

(6. Through to a full follow-through.)