When you have a golf club in your hands, do you feel like you want to wallop the living dimples off it? Yes well, you’re not alone in that respect, but hitting the poor little mite as hard as you can, doesn’t mean you’ll play better golf.

If you’re hoping to relieve some nervous tension, then swinging a golf club with everything you’ve got might just do it. On the other hand, if you want to play golf the way it should be played, then you’re going to have to exercise a little control.

Swinging a golf club too hard is one of the most common faults in the amateur game. Sure, a hearty swing might demonstrate you have the power [bully for you] but in golf, precision is the name of the game.

As a golfer, you need to stay relaxed throughout the swing, as this will help you swing smoothly and help contain your power. To reduce the strength of your swing even more, you should take up your stance with your feet slightly closer together.

You must keep your head still, since your center of gravity is absolutely crucial and your sense of balance stems from the ears, which are usually located on the side of your head. If you keep your feet in the same spot right the way through your swing, then your center of gravity will maintain that balance.

However, if your body moves, then it’s likely your head will move too and you’ll find it difficult to keep your focus on the ball. What’s more, this will shift your center of gravity.  So it’s vital that your feet stay planted and then when you connect with the ball, your weight transference will be moving in the right direction.

When you strike the ball accurately, it ought to feel smooth and easy. Therefore, conserving energy should be your main concern, since playing an 18-hole round of golf is definitely NOT just a walk in the park.

So remember, when you’re about to make contact with the ball try not to stiffen up, because if your muscles tense, then your stability goes. In order to make proper contact with the ball, the club head should follow the same arc through your backswing and your downswing, unless of course you happen to be Jim Furyk. (more…)