Many people feel that keeping your left arm straight means
keeping it rigid.
Many people feel that keeping your left arm straight means keeping it rigid.
If your left arm is rigid and your elbow locked, then tension creeps into your swing. This makes it very difficult for your hips to pivot freely on your backswing. At the top of your swing, a rigid left arm also stops your wrists from cocking fully.
The result of these two actions is a forced hit instead of a smooth swing.
A slight flex of the left arm at the top of the backswing is fine. By keeping your left arm soft, this causes the muscles in your arms and back to stay relaxed. This increases your range of motion and allows you to swing the club more freely.
The result is greater clubhead speed and improved feel.
A soft left arm position does not mean allowing your left arm to bend too much and wrap around your neck. Rather it is just what it means, a slight flex.
Remember, when all else fails, take a lesson. You’ll be surprised how much we can help.
Look forward to the “Scott Watch’ and track the progress of sports editor Scott Forstner as he starts his golf lessons this week.
To schedule a lesson with PGA-certified instructor Don DeLorenzo, call Gilroy GC at 848-0490.
