Golf is a game of precision, and all golfers want to perform at their best, regardless of ability. Entering and maintaining the correct downswing plane is a trait displayed by the very best golfers. Beginning and intermediate golfers typically struggle with the concept of swing plane, but with practice and hard work, getting on the correct downswing plane can be attained.
Step 1
Start your swing with proper fundamentals. Golfers who have poor grip, alignment and ball position have to compensate during the swing. The ball should start between your inner thighs, and your feet should be aligned parallel and left of your target line.
Step 2
Rotate your body during the backswing. Too often, golfers manipulate their down swings by using all arms and no core or lower body action to return to impact. The entire body needs to work together.
Step 3
Eliminate any sway at the top of the swing by transferring your weight to your back foot and staying centered on the ground. Moving up or down, or sliding from side to side, changes your swing plane and throws you off.
Step 4
Transfer your weight from back to front and drive down and through the golf ball during the transition. This ensures that your core and body rotate properly and that the clubhead can drop into the slot position.
Step 5
Return your hands to the impact position. This can be easier said than done, and takes long hours of practice to develop. However, without tension or manipulation, the club should work its way back to impact on the correct plane provided your body is working together.
Step 6
Impact the golf ball by driving the club down onto the back of the golf ball -- a square impact of the ball will produce straight shots. It also is easiest to stay on plane by squaring up lines and angles, and making the swing movements as simple as possible.
Tips and Warnings
- Remember that the golf swing is a circle with the center of the swing the middle of the left shoulder. Swinging around this point will help golfers of all abilities stay on plane.
- If you struggle with the concept of swing plane longer than anticipated, seek the help of a certified golf instructor or PGA teaching professional.
Things You'll Need
- Golf clubs
- Golf balls
- Practice range
- Golf tees
- Golf gloves
- Alignment sticks
- Video camera (optional)
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