Wednesday, October 27, 2010

ENLIGHTENING


Striking a good golf shot can be simplified by the analogy of striking a matchstick.
When striking a matchstick it is easiest when you have these 3 simple components.


1 Downward pressure.
2 Acceleration.
3 A forward leaning shaft.

If you do not have these 3 components you will find it hard to strike the matchstick.

Firstly if the shaft of the matchstick leans backwards or is vertical you will find it difficult to apply sufficient downward pressure to create enough friction for the match to light. Secondly it will prove very difficult to create enough acceleration.

If the shaft of a golf club at impact is backward leaning or vertical similarly you will not be able to create enough downward pressure. This downward pressure is transferred to the ball which in turn compresses. This compression is vital in maximising initial golf ball velocity. You will also find clubface control very difficult due to left wrist extension. Quality ball striking and thus distance control is almost impossible from these shaft positions.

Now if the matchstick leans forward downward pressure can be applied to cause enough friction to light the match, plus the far end of the match can be pulled at speed. And we have light.

Imagine your golf club is a giant matchstick.
1 Apply downward pressure by striking the ball with a descending clubhead.
2 Acceleration will come from the pivot of the body
3 The forward leaning shaft, make sure the hands reach the impact zone before the clubhead.

Just a thought.

Andy







3 comments:

  1. Andy,

    What a great picture. I really like that analogy. So much so, I want to have a box of matches in my golf bag to show.

    That's the best one I've heard that is simple and easy to show people.

    Sometimes, it's the little posts that mean the most.

    Thanks for sharing.

    John

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  2. Andy,

    I love this analogy mate, like John I will now carry a box of matches in my golf bag and the lesson bay. Lets hope nothing catches on fire :)

    Best

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  3. Thanks John and Andrew. If it makes it easier for our players to grasp a concept is worth carrying. my next blog is a bout aeroplane wings. try carrying that around with you. Only joking
    Thanks again

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