Swing Training Aids

[GungaGalunga]

Hi everyone!  Been a bit since I posted here (end of last year) since I busted my left shoulder (subluxation).  I've played about 10 rounds this season thus far, but having real trouble with my driver.  I'm constantly topping the ball, slicing, or only hitting about 100 yards. 

From a few videos a friend of mine took for me, it seems that I'm afraid to hurt my shoulder again, so I keep pulling my left arm in towards my body just short of fully swinging.  With that said, I've been researching golf swing training aids (such as the Impact Snap) to try and correct my swing mentally.

I've found a few reviews of the Impact Snap (listed below), but wanted some additional feedback of what other training aids are highly popular and recommended today?

•  
• http://www.golfwrx.com/forums/topic/487106-impact-snap-device-anyone-used-it/
• http://www.greensidegolfacademy.com/impact-snap-device.html

I've also been thinking about going back and taking a few lessons, but feel like I need something mentally to show me what my arms / hands should be doing during my swing.

Any help / input is super appreciated, along with anyone else who has gone through the same thing and how you mentally got over the fear of hurting your shoulder again.

Thanks,
Ryan

[boogielicious]

11 hours ago, GungaGalunga said:

Hi everyone!  Been a bit since I posted here (end of last year) since I busted my left shoulder (subluxation).  I've played about 10 rounds this season thus far, but having real trouble with my driver.  I'm constantly topping the ball, slicing, or only hitting about 100 yards. 

From a few videos a friend of mine took for me, it seems that I'm afraid to hurt my shoulder again, so I keep pulling my left arm in towards my body just short of fully swinging.  With that said, I've been researching golf swing training aids (such as the Impact Snap) to try and correct my swing mentally.

I've found a few reviews of the Impact Snap (listed below), but wanted some additional feedback of what other training aids are highly popular and recommended today?

•  
• http://www.golfwrx.com/forums/topic/487106-impact-snap-device-anyone-used-it/
• http://www.greensidegolfacademy.com/impact-snap-device.html

I've also been thinking about going back and taking a few lessons, but feel like I need something mentally to show me what my arms / hands should be doing during my swing.

Any help / input is super appreciated, along with anyone else who has gone through the same thing and how you mentally got over the fear of hurting your shoulder again.

Thanks,
Ryan

Ryan,

My feeling on most training aids is you can't use them on the course and they are not the clubs you use so they are not worth the price. If you feel you are being hesitant in your swing due to the injury, which is certainly possible, I would recommend practicing at slower speed. Swinging at 25 to 50% at the range will not cause injury and will get you used to the full motion. You can also find out issues with your swing and correct them more easily. Some training aids are ok, but I don't think this one would address your issue.

Another thing you can do to work on impact with irons is find a piece of grass where you can just make divots. I few years back I had hurt my right elbow and I was flipping to avoid contact with the ground. I went to a field and did a swing drill where I drew a line on the ground and just practiced hitting that line and making a divot. My elbow felt fine during the drill, and I got over the hesitation.

[Hoganman1]

Try the Powerchute Pro. I just got one and it's been good so far. It helps increase swing speed while improving your swing sequence. One person that recommends it is some guy named Jack Nicklaus. Seems like I remember him having some moderate success a few years ago. Good luck and here's hoping your comeback goes well.

[Groucho Valentine]

Bogeylicious had some good advice. I think 99% of swing aids are utterly ridiculous. But i tooled around with this triangle piece of plastic once and it gives decent feedback. I think its called the swing extender. Still probably not worth it. Id rather spend $$$ on lessons rather than training aids. 

For your specific issue, i would actually try throwing clubs. To be more specific- Get and old club and find a open field someplace. Get into proper stance and posture, pick a target,  take normal backswing, then try to throw the club about 15-20 feet down the target line. It should give you a decent feel of releasing the body and arms correctly. If you do it right, the club should fire out torso level (ish) and down the target line. Do it wrong and the club will fly high and left (if you're a righty) or worse strait into the ground at your feet. Its an interesting drill. 

[Patch]

I have a Kalassy Swing gizmo. Had it for years. I use just it about every day for about 10-15 minutes, usually in 3 minute intervals.  I use it to keep my full swing muscles, and body  turns  in decent working order. 

I was in the OP's shoes a few years ago after a few surgeries. I was afraid to go full out with my swing. I was afraid a screw or pin would let go . Finally one day I just decided to let it all hang out. It was a make or break decision. 

I agree that most swing aids are not worth much. I'd never use a weighted club theses days. I have a weighted 5i that I made myself. Quit using it years ago due timing,  and joint issues. 

[70sSanO]

A year and a half ago I clipped a tree on my bike and partially tore a couple of rotator cuff tendons.  No surgery, which is worse.  I guess my first question is whether you did any PT?  That was the best thing I did.  A good PT will put you through the paces and give you exercises and by the time your done you should feel pretty good about what your shoulder can handle.  The right exercises will do wonders for you.

John