Please help with understanding downswing sequence.

[bigslicktux]

Hello, I am new to the forum and this is my first post.  I was wondering if you could share your thoughts on downswing sequence.  I tend to have a push or severe slice, and doing lots of research online I think I my arms are getting trapped behind my body as I rotate.  I am just confused I guess with what the arms are supposed to do.  Everything I have learned has said to start the downswing with the hips, then turn the upperbody and let all of that pull your arms.  I have also read you shouldn't swing with your arms.  With all of this said I cannot see any way of not getting my arms "stuck" if I dont actively use them.  Any help will be appreciated!  I hope you understand all this.  Thank you so much.

[bigslicktux]

Any thoughts? Please and thanks.

[dalybog]

I am no great player, but I do remember the first lesson I ever took.  One of the very first things the pro showed me was a video and then pictures of Bobby Knight when he hurled the chair across the basketball court.  Watching it, you notice that once he had it back and ready to throw, he practically planted his left foot, turned his hips, and then threw the chair, right where he wanted it to go.  This pro ingrained this image in my head, and for the most part it has helped me stop coming over the top and hitting shots left, or getting stuck and hitting shots to the right.  Not sure if it helps?  I am also new to the site. Since no one else has replied I figured I could at least offer something to think about.

[newtogolf]

After triggering your downswing with your hip turn I was taught to bring the club handle down so that my rear arm is tight to my ribs to prevent the swing from going outside in.  You then allow your arms to swing through with your hips, which if timed right (your hips) are out of the way so your arns can swing through.  At the same time your weight is shifting to your front leg and your rear leg is "pushing off" to help generate swing speed and power.   In my swing my hands are turning over at ball contact but not every swing method promotes that.

There are a number of different swing methods so what is right for my swing might not be for yours.  Your best bet is to post a video of your swing and let one of the instructors on this site provide you with advice.

[bigslicktux]

Thanks for the replies. It gives me something more to think about.  I think I might focus more on bringing my right elbow inside my right hip.

[Beachcomber]

Here are a few solid videos on what the arms do in the golf swing... Both by very reputable teachers that use physics and geometry to prove their method of instruction.  So what they are saying - while it may seem so basic and simple (it really is)... Is accurate.

General overview of the Arms (I highly recommend you watch all of Tom's videos - they are excellent).

Understanding the flying wedges.

I'd recommend that you get a video camera - and film you swing.  And create a 'My Swing' thread.  This way we can more intelligently provide support and help you play better golf! Welcome to TST!!