What is the Ideal Length for a Golf Backswing?
Swinging Like the Pros: Backswing Basics and Common Mistakes
Mastering the backswing is crucial in golf, but it's a tricky balancing act even for top-tier players. Let's dive into the world of golf swing secrets, tackling the all-important backswing length debate and highlighting common missteps.
Is There a One-Size-Fits-All Approach to Backswing Length?
The backswing world isn't black and white—different golfers have varying backswing lengths, and that's perfectly okay. Take a look at John Daly's massive overswing back in the 90s, compared to Jon Rahm's much more modest backswing. Both men claimed their fair share of Majors, demonstrating that there's no one-size-fits-all formula.
The Case of the Tensed Up Golfer
One common issue that could shorten your backswing is grip tension at address. You'll struggle to hinge your wrists or move your arms efficiently, making it difficult to keep your arms and body in sync during the downswing, costing you both power and control. Relax at address and rid yourself of unnecessary tension to set yourself up for success.
Elbow Collapse: The Surprise Long Backswing Culprit
On the flip side, some golfers excessively bend their left elbow (right-handed golfers) at the top of the backswing. This creates a long, weak swing that makes coordination during the downswing difficult. Working on achieving a straight left arm in your golf swing can help you reclaim some power and accuracy.
The Heel Lifter's Predicament
Some players lift the heel of their front foot excessively to lengthen their backswing, which can be detrimental to their game. Don't go overboard; ensure you're not sacrificing power and consistency in the pursuit of a longer backswing.
Unleashing Your Inner Pro
The most critical aspect isn't setting a specific backswing length but rather making a good, full turn and shifting your weight properly. This will put you in the best position for the downswing sequence and help you deliver the shot you need.
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[1] Wingspan, height, and backswing plane (Source)
[2] Consistent first move (Source)
[3] Golf Swing Analysis (Source)
- It's essential to understand that different golfers have varying backswing lengths, and this doesn't necessarily mean one is wrong or right, as demonstrated by John Daly's long swing and Jon Rahm's more modest one, both claiming Major titles.
- A common issue that can inhibit a full backswing is grip tension at address, which makes it difficult to hinge wrists or move arms efficiently, compromising both power and control in the downswing.
