Golf has a reputation as a fancy sport that only those with a high net worth can afford to play. But did you know that the game is one of the most accessible sports to play?
With the rise of backyard home golf courses, people of all incomes have the potential to learn how to play golf. Golf courses have even started offering programs for beginners so you can learn the game.
But before you head out to the course, you need to know the basic mechanics of a golf swing. Read on to learn more about the golf swing and its components.
Basic Mechanics of a Golf Swing
Set-Up
Assuming you are right-handed, stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and point your left foot slightly to the left. For left-handed golfers, do the opposite. This stance will allow your body to turn more fully through the shots.
Next, bend your knees slightly and flex your hips so your weight is centered over the balls of your feet. Find a comfortable grip on the club. Bring the club up to your shoulder height and hold it so the clubface is pointing directly at the target.
Backswing
The backswing is the first part of the golf swing and perhaps the most important part. It is the foundation for a good golf swing. If the backswing is not executed properly, it will be difficult to make a good golf swing.
When taking the backswing, turn your body away from the target, and keep the arms and club close to the body. The club should be swung back in a slow, controlled manner. The backswing should end with the club at waist level and the player’s weight shifted to the back foot.
Downswing
There are a couple of key things to focus on during the downswing in order to hit the ball with power and accuracy. First, keep your weight balanced and shift it towards your front foot as you start the downswing.
Second, keep your arms close to your body and let the club “fall” from the top of the swing down to the ball. As you make contact with the ball, snap your wrists to add extra power and spin.
Follow Through
The key to a good follow-through is to keep the club on the same plane as it was at the start of the swing. This will ensure that the ball is hit with the sweet spot and will travel straight. Remember to keep your hands and arms close to your body and to not let the club head drop too low.
Now you know how to swing a golf club! Over time, golf swing mechanics will become second nature to you. There are a number of portable golf products to help you improve your golf swing.
Tee Up!
If you’re new to golf, or just looking to improve your swing, this guide will walk you through the basics of a golf swing. After reading this guide and learning the mechanics of a golf swing, you’ll be well on your way to hitting low scores. So get out to the range and happy swinging!
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Veronica Baxter is a writer, blogger, and legal assistant operating out of the greater Philadelphia area.