A Tip from Chuck
SLOW DOWN YOUR BACKSWING
One essential element of the golf stroke, regardless of what path it may take, is a smooth, even acceleration from the top of the swing to and through the ball. Anything which disturbs this smoothness and introduces a jerk into the swing is bound to upset the timing and destroy the accuracy of the blow. It is this picture of gradual acceleration which eludes the average player.
Once reaching the top of the back swing, the average player can see only one thing that needs to be done, to hit as hard, and as quickly as he can. He does not always realize that the appearance of ease in great swing is simply the result of leisurely and well timed hitting. Rhythm and Timing are the two things which we all must have to play golf at the highest level of excellence. The nearest approach to an accurate discription of what they are is found in the expression of the conception of swinging the club. The player who hits at the ball rather than through it has no sense of rhythm. Similarly, the player who, after a short backswing, attempts to make up for lost space by convulsive effort initiating the down stroke has no sense of rhythm. The only player who has a chance to achieve a rhythmic, well-timed stroke is the player who in spite of all else yet swings the club head. The crucial area is where the swing changes direction at the top of the backswing. When you practice visualize your backswing flowing back leisurely and to an ample length, whence the start downward can be made without the feeling that there may not be enough time left to hit the ball, there is a good chance of success. A hurried backswing induces a hurried start downward, and a short backswing makes some sort of rescue effort imperative. A good golfer will not be guilty of either.
My first and most important key to reaching my students: "It's not what I say that's important, it's what my students hear, understand, and remember!"
Remember even the pros on tour have their instructors watch them practice before they correct and refine their swing!
Once in a while something comes along that really works!