Demystifying the Golf Swing Plane
The golf swing plane is often considered one of the most difficult concepts in golf. However, it is a crucial aspect to every golfer’s game. As an avid golfer, I have read tons of books and articles about perfecting the golf swing plane. Despite my efforts, the concept of the golf swing plane was always presented in such a convoluted manner that I was unable to apply the concept in my game. If you find yourself feeling the same way I once did, hopefully I can simplify the topic so the golf swing plane will no longer be a mystery, and you will actually be able to achieve the ideal swing plane when you golf.
What is a Golf Swing Plane?
It is first necessary to clarify exactly what they golf swing plane is. I hope to do this as clearly as possible so you fully understand the concept before you attempt to apply it to your swing. The easiest way to do this is to imagine a weight swinging on the end of a piece of string. If you begin to twist this piece of string in front of you, the weight will naturally make a circular arc. The weight is swinging on a perfect plane around your hand – the swing plane. In golf, the golf swing is defined as the direction that your golf club travels during your swing.
Analyze Your Golf Swing
One of the best ways to achieve an ideal swing plane is to analyze your own swing plane. Having someone film you is the easiest way to do this. We never get the chance to actually see what we are doing when we strike the ball, but watching your stroke on film can be extremely helpful in revealing where you may be having trouble and what you should focus on. By analyzing your swing plane, you will be able to make sure your swing plane is flattened. Another option to help you establish a correct swing plane is a swing trainer. A swing trainer is a circular pipe device that can be adjusted so that it fits each golfer. In my experience using a swing trainer, I have found it is very easy to use and lets you correct your swing plane with each swing that I made. Another more advanced method of correcting your swing plane is by using a laser light attached to the end of your club handle. The light indicates the direction of the butt of the club and this can also be helpful when analyzing your swing plane.
Pitfalls to Avoid in Your Swing Plane
There are several pitfalls you will want to avoid as you work on correcting your swing plane. First, beginner golfers tend hit the ball with their arms, rather than with their legs and body. To avoid this problem, it is crucial you focus on the moment when you are about to swing the golf club down. Human nature tells you to hit the ball as hard as possible when you are about to start swinging down, but it is precisely this moment when you should begin by turning your hips, rather than by pushing your arms downward. Many people neglect to do this, yet concentrating on your body movements is essential to improving your game. Lastly, do not try to force the club into the correct swing plane. Developing a sound swing plane will take time and lots of consistent practice; if you rush or force it, you are defeating the purpose. You must have patience with yourself if you want changes in your swing plane to last. I hope that this article has at least simplified the learning process and provided you with a better understanding of the golf swing plane!
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