Backswing change - good result

[pacheco52]

Hi everyone

Wanted to check something out with you all.  I am not a regular poster, although I do read the forums quite a lot.

I am a high handicapper and, like many high handicappers, have an inconsistent strike caused, usually, by my downswing being on too steep of a plane.  I have always been a victim of the dreaded fat shot and have been known to create some impressive sparks down at the range with my driver.

Recently, I was playing about with my the start of my takeaway (after having previously addressed how I initiate the downswing - which I am now happy with) and noticed that if I put downward pressure on my left arm when commencing my backswing rotation, and while I make my way up to the top, it vastly improved the quality of my strike  - and this helped me across the board on all clubs.

I nearly broke 90 for the first time a few nights ago, and hit some really nice shots.

Any thoughts on this?  Does it seem like something to move forward with?

Edited June 14, 2017 by pacheco52

[saevel25]

If it works go for it. I'm not sure what it would look like on video compared to your previous swing. 

[phillyk]

Creating width by keeping the left arm extended does help with creating a better arc. Maybe that width is what you mean by pressure in your left arm?

[MarvChamp]

MIGHT be that your new move results in shaft lean left and more compression of the ball? So many little small things! Recently I got sloppy with my setup. Had the ball too far back in my stance, resulting in a way inside takeaway and fat and thin shots. My perspective was fine, I thought. Took a 3rd person to see the fault. I had always set up with left the ball off the left heel (more like at the logo on my shirt), then made adjustments with my right, ala Nicklaus, Flick, Harmon, etc. Not focusing on that small detail caused problems. My point and 2 cents: Check your setup routine often.

-Marv

AND MAY I ADD: I now have a more straight back takeaway. -Marv

[pacheco52]

44 minutes ago, phillyk said:

Creating width by keeping the left arm extended does help with creating a better arc. Maybe that width is what you mean by pressure in your left arm?

I'm pretty sure this is the case.  I previously got very handsy in the takeaway and would even snatch the club away very quickly.  

The previous positive change that I made (and then forgot) was to have a feeling of leaving my hands behind - or being a lot quieter in the takeaway.  This may have created the very same width you talk about above.

Hope I can keep going with the progress.  It is coming together at a time when I am realising the importance of the lower half initiating the downswing (I got used to throwing my right shoulder over the top) and remaining centred.

If I can keep this going then I'm not completely out of the woods (literally) - need to get rid of a slice and lack of power with the driver - 

Would love to break 90 soon.  

Edited June 14, 2017 by pacheco52