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Breaking Through
As Seen in the Arizona Republic
Eyes - Hands - Feet
When trying to break through the 100 barrier you need to get in tune with your senses.
Eyes - The eyes see your target and supply you with all the information you need for success. Shot type, club selection and a positive mental image. Remember: "What your mind conceives your body can achieve." Get in the habit of seeing what you want before you swing.
Hands - Your hands are your only connection to the club. They are the primary controller of the club face and also responsible for developing leverage and snap which are key components to power. If you hope to have any chance of playing golf well you have to be good here. Adopt a grip in the fingers vs. the palm. Both hands should be turned a little right of center on the shaft as well. A form fitted "training grip" will be of help in this process.
Feet - The feet are the center of balance and a provider of rhythm. Whether you are Joe Montana, Jack Nicklaus or Fred Astaire, footwork is an integral part of your training. As a drill, try walking in a straight line while making some smooth rhythmic swings. Count out 1-2, 1-2 like a pendulum as you step and swing. Your feet should feel light and responsive to the swinging club.
Ron said 10/30/07
I’m a little confused about turning both hands a little right of center. That would be a stronger grip, and most teaching Pros tell you to employ a neutral grip. I hit a natural soft draw, and if I try to use a stronger grip, I start hooking the ball. If anything, I pinch my right hand counter-clockwise into my left hand which is in a thumb at 1:00 position.
Jeff Ritter said
Ron,
Most golfer’s that regualy shoot over 100 tend to also be slicers of the golf ball. Human nature is to hold the club too much in the palms with too weak of a grip. This is why this tip is encouraging a "stronger" gripping position. When developing a game learning to "hook" the ball is closer to good technique than slicing. If you already can turn the ball over to the left, I would assume that you have found a good balanced position in your grip and you should keep it in the same place. Instead, take advantage of the tips for awareness with your Eyes and Feet.