Power and consistency are the two main attribute most, if not all golfers want in their game. These components both stem from good balance throughout the swing. Therefore we want to establish good balance so we can created more power and accuracy in our game. Here I will discuss reasons why balance is so important, and some key thoughts to help you get more balance in your swing.
Why is balance so important?
Every aspect of our swing evolves around how well our body is balanced. Even the slightest unbalance in our body can result in undesired movement. And… more movement will often equate into less power and consistency. After all it is natural instinct for the body to react if it feels a loss in stability.
Take the first time you rode a bicycle, or even observing someone else riding for the first time. The constant jolting and movement in an effort to stay upright, and avoid harm to yourself. Now the golf swing isn’t quite as excessive as this example, but the same principles apply.
If we look at the best players in the world we see how effortless they swing the golf club. They make it look so easy. This ultimately comes down to the complete control and balance they have in their swing.
How can loss of balance affect our golf swing?
The body is constantly reacting throughout the golf swing. For every action we produce there will likely be an equal and opposite reaction. Any excessive reaction can result in a poor strike, loss of power or an over-exaggerated reaction.
For instance take a neutral set-up position in-front of a mirror. If you slowly move your hips towards your target you will notice how your spine angle will react by leaning back away from target. This move can likely result in a heavy contact behind the ball.
For the most part the the lower body has a big role to play in maintaining balance. The upper body will often act as a counterweight. Which is critical, as this can affect spine angle, rotation and swing plane. All three of these components playing a vital role in creating more power and consistency.
>> Check out this article about the Importance of the Lower Body <<
Its this slight reactive motion that can put the swing out of sync, and distract our subconscious from putting maximum focus into contacting the ball.
What can we do do improve our balance?
Theres a few great drills to improve our balance. Click the links in this list to view a more detailed description of these drills.
Feet Together Drill:This will help establish rotation round a balanced axis and pivot point.
Hold the Follow Through: A great drill to hold and establish balance throughout the swing.
Alignment stick under your feet: This gives immediate relevant feedback to where your weight distribution in your feet.
These drill are very good to help establish your balance and give feedback in-swing. However these drills can be hard to perform if we’re not properly balanced at address. Here’s a good thought and position to feel in your set-up which will help you maintain balance throughout the swing.
Get set-up to the ball in a neutral position. In that position, move your club so the top of the grip hangs vertically from your trail hip (as seen above). Ideally we want to see the club head hanging directly over the ankle. A common issue I see is the hips too far behind the heel. This will likely result in the spine angle being to upright at address.
>> Check this article out to see what Affect Spine Angle has on your Swing <<
If you try this check drill and find your weight is too far in your heels, you may adjust and feel as though your almost going to topple over. This is where your legs will play a big part in supporting your body and taking much stress of the lower back.
>> Check out this article to see How Posture can Reduce Stress and pain in your Back <<
Summary
Balance is the foundation if you want to create more power and consistency in your game. Improving your balance won’t necessarily improve these attributes immediately. But will certainly allow your body to progress quicker and more effectively towards these goals.
Taking time in a range session to hit a series of balls with primary focus on balance will give you a good perspective of how efficient you are swinging the club. If this is something your struggling with, master the drills in this article, and see how a balanced efficient swing makes the game a whole lot easier.
