Tempo or Timing?

[ericromero76]

Dear Golf Swing Guru's,

Question about tempo: How do I create a good one, tempo that is? I've watched and tried to emulate Freddy Couples numerous times but then find myself correcting another "technical" issue in the swing! I know what it feels like....its almost effortless, almost automatic and all you're doing is seeing it happen. The body knows what to do. I tried counting to myself on the backswing with a slight pause at the top...any pointers???

Question about weight transfer: How do I go from a golfer who used to lift the left foot for more power, to keeping the left foot on the ground? It just feels strange, like a short backswing, a rubber band winding up at the top, almost like your "old tempo" goes out of whack and that just ruins the entire day because you try to find it again.

Question about height vs. posture: I'm 5'6" and I have heard that the shorter you are, the flatter the swing plane. Is a flatter swing plane in the same area as having your right elbow as close to your body as possible? I used to do that drill with the towel underneath my right armpit, well not that high but it supposed to stay there until after impact. Just wanted to get an idea on how a flat swing plane should feel...

Thanx for any tips...

Eric

[Golfbald]

Eric,

I'll give it a shot!!!

Question about tempo: How do I create a good one, tempo that is?

You might want to start with Johann Straus, The Blue Danube op. 314. This waltz has a great golf tempo. Music is the best way to get a good rythmn going. I wouldn't recommend Metalica but get a song stuck in your head that has your tempo. Don't be afraid to take some music with headphones to the range to get a good groove on!!! Be kind to others and use headphones.

Question about weight transfer: How do I go from a golfer who used to lift the left foot for more power, to keeping the left foot on the ground?

To lift or not to lift this is the question, is it nobler to have it on the ground!!! I say it depends on your turn into your right side. If it comes off the ground slightly as a result of your turn then it is ok. If you lift your heel because you think you are suppose to, don't. It should be part of the natural motion. Also don't lift your heel as a result of a lifting the club. Turn, turn, turn!!!

Question about height vs. posture: I'm 5'6" and I have heard that the shorter you are, the flatter the swing plane. Is a flatter swing plane in the same area as having your right elbow as close to your body as possible?

Eric, the drill your refering to is usually for wingers. Folks that get there elbow too far the the air. If you want to check your plane a better drill would be the infamous wall drill. You will need a Salvation Army/thrift store $2.00 driver. The break even point is 5'8" they stand 3 feet in front of the wall. 5'10" and more stand 1" closer. 5'6" and below stand 1" farther away from the wall. Do Not Do This With A Good Driver!!! Take a normal swing, if you hit the wall your plane is too flat. It should just miss the wall, going up and coming down.

Hope this gives you some ideas!!!

GolfBald