Debunked Theories

[allin]

What swing models taught today are most likely to be seen as outdated even ridiculous in 20 years? The same judgement could be applied to short game and putting methods as well.

What swing methods common in the past 20 or more years are now outdated.

What swing methods which were once common but later lost popularity are likely to come back, maybe in an updated form?

[paulk]

I would think with the success of Jim Furyk last year that he has proven the golf swing can be unique and still work. The primary theory of keeping the club square to your target 12 inches behind the ball and 12 inches in front of the ball still applies.

[RX Phoenix]

What will remain the same is the importance of grip, alignment, ball position, shot routine, and making an aggressive committed swing, get these factors right and a lot of different swings will work well.

The swing has to be one that doesn't cause back injury, there are various types of swings which can work really well but are too stressful on parts of the back, some people may be able to get away with it for awhile. I believe that allowing for more mobility in the feet especially the back foot may be part of a new swing ideology, right now it seems as if the feet are too planted.

[allin]

What will remain the same is the importance of grip, alignment, ball position, shot routine, and making an aggressive committed swing, get these factors right and a lot of different swings will work well.

Does the current emphasis on body rotation and a big x factor put more stress on the knees and hips?

[RX Phoenix]

Does the current emphasis on body rotation and a big x factor put more stress on the knees and hips?

Most likely YES, it's OK when you are young but try this when you are older and you can feel it in the hips joints and knees. It is built for max. power but may not be good for older golfers. That is why there needs to be more mobility in the lower body so that not too much torque is placed on the knees and hips.

Very good observation allin, thank you!

[ipark1303]

I believe that modern golf is evolving very fast due to technological advance.
Golfers (sorry, I should say Players) are becoming bigger, stronger, and longer. Technically, they do not have the best looking swing ever, but a very repetitive, strong movement. (i.e. Bubba Watson, JB Holmes, etc. etc.)

[niblick]

I would think with the success of Jim Furyk last year that he has proven the golf swing can be unique and still work. The primary theory of keeping the club square to your target 12 inches behind the ball and 12 inches in front of the ball still applies.

I agree that unique swings can produce good results. I think that second statement is incorrect. The clubface travels on an arc, and by definition is in constant rotation from open to closed relative to the target line. There is no keeping is square. That would defy the laws of physics.

[paulk]

That is certainly open for debate, however, the laws of physics should not apply here. This guy Dalton McCrary teaches a swing that utilizes "The 40 Inch Zone of Squareness". Perhaps you should check it out:
http://www.mccrarygolf.com/straight_shootin_golf.htm

I have found Furyks swing to be the closest to his teachings.
Just to note: I have watched his tapes but have not had a chance to try it yet because we have way too much snow on the ground here in New Mexico.

[NM Golf]

I have watched his tapes but have not had a chance to try it yet because we have way too much snow on the ground here in New Mexico.

OFF TOPIC: Socorro and Belen are both open played there this week.

[niblick]

That is certainly open for debate, however, the laws of physics should not apply here. This guy Dalton McCrary teaches a swing that utilizes "The 40 Inch Zone of Squareness". Perhaps you should check it out:

We've got snow up here in Seattle as well. It's a drag - I wanted to play this weekend.

[John Boy]

Fundamentals have not changed too much. Different wqays to apply the fundamentals have a little. The only fact to golf is that no matter how good you are, there is always something you can do to improve your game and/or your swing. Tiger changes his swing at least every 3 months...it is just in small variances. That is why I am drawn to golf...it is a great sport where no matter your age, you never can be perfect. You may lose strength and control, but anyone who can hit at what they aim at and carry the ball 150 yds has what it takes to shoot low.

[trashpar]

I agree that fundamentals are the most important thing; however I believe that there is a greater understanding of what the fundamentals should be for each individual player by instructors and biomechanical experts. A 6’3”, 180 lb player is going to have different physical aspects to his golf swing when compared to someone who is 5’6” 220 lbs. Can they both play at the same level? Certainly, but the shorter player is probably going to utilize a different grip and ball position from the taller player.

[WilsonWedgeMan]

That is certainly open for debate, however, the laws of physics should not apply here. This guy Dalton McCrary teaches a swing that utilizes "The 40 Inch Zone of Squareness". Perhaps you should check it out:

revive old thread...... I have DMs tapes and yes, they work... and work well. I would sayfor them to have the most effect, you'd have to re-learn the swing,his way. it DOES work.

[RackleyGolf]

In my opinion, changes in swing concepts lend themselves to helping people build REPEATABLE swings. That's why we don't use "Happy Gilmore" swings on the first tee...of course you'll tag one out of ten 325 yards, but are the other nine that you blast in the woods worth it?

I agree with Ben Hogan...it's all about building a REPEATABLE swing that performs under pressure. I think the modern swing thoughts try to eliminate unnecessary moves to encourage more consistent ball striking.