Cast a shadow over your swing and cure its faults

We require the sun to be out, so good luck with that one.

Take a look at the first picture.

It was taken on a fine sunny day and you will see that I have set up with my shadow projected out in front on the grass.

Without using a club I have made a full backswing - but with too much lateral movement, bordering on a “sway”.

You will clearly see that my shadow has moved roughly six inches or more to the right.

The golf ball, that was my marker, is now visible in the direct sunlight.

When this happens typical poor shots include striking the ground well before the ball and low thinned, or even topped, shots.

This all too common fault is often a product of trying to create extra power.

Sadly however it relies on “perfect timing” or the shots are as described above.

Now have a glance at the second picture.

Having made a full normal backswing (correctly) the golf ball is still directly in the shadow of my head - no sign of any unwanted swaying going on here.

This is referred to as a more “centered swing” and is much more reliable in terms of timing, and producing a solid contact. The classic ball/turf connection that you normally want.

If you have previously been like the first swing described, then you will feel as if you are making a “reverse pivot” - but fear not, it is only a feeling.

The old saying “feel and real” can often be quite different. Some players will now be saying is it stack and tilt - no it is certainly not that, merely a more centered, better way to make a backswing.

So try and find a nice sunny day, have your shadow projected out in front onto the grass - and truly discover what type of swing you have actually got.

It is a very good simple drill, with hopefully lots of positive feedback.

Good luck as always.

NEXT WEEK: Bottle drill.