Key Points to take away from this great video with Parker!:
Common Amateur Issues:
Players often try to over-compress the golf ball on small shots.
Typical setup mistakes include:
- Ball positioned too far back.
- Handle excessively forward.
- Weight heavily shifted forward.
- These setups generate too much ball speed, leading to compensations (e.g., backing out, releasing early, or poor pivoting).
Stock Shot Setup:
- Ball Position: Slightly forward of center.
- Shaft: Neutral to slightly forward (about 1° lean).
- Clubface: Slightly open to engage the bounce.
- Feet: Close together, neutral stance for better control.
- Spine: Neutral and stacked over the hips for balanced movement.
- Weight: Slightly forward at address (~55% front foot).
In-Swing Dynamics:
- Backswing: Maintain synchronization between arms and torso; avoid "dragging" the trail elbow back.
- Downswing: Pressure shifts toward the lead foot but with active pushing off the trail foot for control.
- Follow-Through: Club stays in front of the body, avoiding excessive rolling of the clubface or exaggerated hand movements.
Key Drills and Adjustments:
- Trail Hand-Only Swings: Helps develop proper arm movement without independent or excessive elbow motion.
- Step-Through Drill: Encourages moving through the shot dynamically, especially for players who tend to hang back.
Critical Concepts:
- Inside 30 yards, focus less on perfect ball-first contact and compression, and more on control and rhythm.
- Proper setup unlocks fluid, dynamic movement toward the target.
- Ball speed is crucial for controlling shot distance, even if contact isn't perfect.
- Aim for simplicity: build a reliable stock shot and make minor adjustments for specialty shots.
Summary:
Set up neutrally and allow for fluid, dynamic motion through the shot. Proper setup and movement toward the target prevent compensations and unlock consistency in ball speed, control, and trajectory.