GOLF COLUMN: Tips from a pro

Sam Shaw, a PGA professional from Hayfield, gives the first in a series of his golf columns.
Sam Shaw, PGA pro from HayfieldSam Shaw, PGA pro from Hayfield
Sam Shaw, PGA pro from Hayfield

As a player and coach it is my job to make the game easier for you and with my regular tips and advice I want to help you get the most out of your game.

The strike on the golf ball is by far the most important factor in a golf shot.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Without a central strike the ball isn’t going to perform how you want it to.

Creating a connection between the turn of your shoulders and swing of your arms promotes a more efficient golf swing with less moving parts.

Most amateurs’ swings have too many moving parts and as a result develop a great deal of inconsistency.

To improve the connection in your swing I recommend the ‘ball drill’.

Hide Ad

Find a ball about the size of a slightly deflated volleyball and pinch the ball between both biceps while also having it contact your chest.

Hide Ad

Once the ball is in place, grip the club and begin to make short swings.

Gradually work your way up to a full-length swing while swinging slowly.

The key to performing the ball drill is that the ball must maintain contact with all three points while you are swinging.

The length of your back swing may feel restricted.

Hide Ad

Connecting the motion of the body and arms will eliminate unnecessary moving parts in your golf swing and make it easier to repeat and more consistent.

If you don’t have a ball try and feel it and work on keeping your body more connected.

Related topics: