True beginner swing video, please help

[cstorms]

This is a video of my friend's swing at the range. He has only played once or twice and is a true beginner. He has been frequenting the range and would love any tips you guys might have. Please respond with any suggestions in relation to the video. Thanks!

[saevel25]

Were are you aiming, down the camera angle or off to the right, because your feet are pointing probably 20 yards to the right, and the clubface is looking like its going down range. Grip looks good from here, but i think you are a bit close to the ball. I like to have the hands under the chin or neck, yours are under your belly.

You take the club back closed, when your hands are about waist to belly button high in the backswing the toe should be pointing towards the sky. You collapse your left arm so much that you are swing is upright. I think your alignment is an issue, put down a club between you and the ball... Then check the clubface at address.

You also cast the club from the top, don't flip your wrist at the ball from the top, rotate your shoulders around your spine and let your weight naturally to your left side. The hands will unwind naturally through the impact area.

[jamo]

The thing that jumped out at me at first was the bent left arm. Ideally it should be straight (but not locked) at the top and throughout the backswing.

[senorchipotle]

as a beginner, he should go to a grass range if possible to ensure proper contact with the ball.

[weavej2]

Rather smooth!! A collared shirt would be nice. I agree with some others. Alignment at this stage cant be stressed enough. "where are you aiming" teach him intermediate targets . I would stop the back swing right when his elbow breaks. WOuld have enough coil to make a good controlled pass. But for 2 times out..looks smooth!! Lots of chipping/putting/pitching

[cstorms]

as a beginner, he should go to a grass range if possible to ensure proper contact with the ball.

unfortunately that isn't an option, but thank you for all of the responses so far

[Teklabz]

Not bad for the third or so time out, I'd say his knees look a little too bent, and during the backswing he bends his left knee even more exaggerated. Definitely agree that he should try to maintain a straight left elbow rather than going so far back he has to bend it. Aiming to the right, which was said a few times already. And I agree with Saevel, the hands are a bit close to the body, the grip should be pointing a little higher, toward the belt line or just above, not at the groin like in the video. Tell him to keep at it though, he's got a decent place he's starting at.

[srjorion]

No swing critiques aside from what is listed above, but just some general advice.

I'm always a big proponent of taking lessons if you are serious about golf. I think your friend's swing looks pretty good for a fresh beginner and lessons now will really help him elevate his game quickly. I think he would have a lot more satisfaction in playing if he's serious about getting better by taking a lesson or two vs. just beating balls around a course. I know sometimes financially lessons don't seem affordable, but in my experience I've found some very good instructors who charge about the same for one round of golf at a reasonable course.

It's just a thought. Golf is still fun no matter what, but I know I wish I had taken some lessons earlier.