Transference of Power: Horseback Riding Without the Horse
By Dr. T. J. Tomasi, Keiser University College of Golf Senior Faculty and Director of Research
My series on key swing positions increases your learning by allowing you to match your swing to a pro swing at every critical juncture. The model assumes a right-handed golfer who is hitting a mostly straight shot with slight movement right or left at the end, depending on player preference. In this article, I introduce the concept of sequential transfer of power during the downswing featuring a position that every good player exhibits.
Our photos show the transference of power as it drains into the lead arm, which has reached parallel to the ground (the prior positions are covered in other articles). The energy generated by torqueing the pelvis is passed to the thorax (shoulders), whereupon the thorax picks up the energy and, in turn, passes it along to the lead arm, which creates the well-known player’s position, as shown below.
In world-class golfers, at the beginning of the downswing, the pelvis backs away from the ball a tad as the golfer “squats down” and arches the back slightly. This leg posture reminds some viewers of ‘horseback riding’ without the horse.
Note that our pro is on the inside rim of his right foot with the heel slightly off the ground, a position that suggests that most of his weight has been shifted to his left (front) foot.
In addition, both knees are flexed, and the club shaft is below his back shoulder while pointing approximately at the target line, an indication that his swing is on a plane angle (see arrow) that is favorable. When you are in this player’s position, as shown above, it is tough to screw up impact, so pose in the mirror until you have body-memorized it perfectly.
Another view of the player’s position. The model has his pelvis cocked and ready to fire toward the target. His weight is left, and his left knee is over the ball of his foot. At the beginning of impact, his left leg will snap straight, hurtling the clubhead into impact – and that spells power.
You can see by his shirt/pants wrinkles that there is a good deal of torque everywhere you look – right vs. left, top vs. middle, and bottom – and overall.
The goal of this power package is to be funneled down the lead arm and into the ball! But that is a story for another day.
Learn more!
Want more tips? If you want to take your game to the next level, contact our team at Keiser University’s College of Golf & Sport Management today. With our dedication and experience, together, we can elevate your game to new heights. Give us a call today at 888-355-4465.
