Tip From the Archives
Improve Your Downswing
Problem
The ball skips or hits the ground when teeing off before it rises into the air. Very often, this is because the person favors their irons, where they are used to making more of a downward blow at impact.
Cure
You need to improve your downswing with a sweeping motion to help lift the ball at impact. You should resist the urge to swing back downwards or too hard. Despite seeming logical, the additional power does not necessarily result in increased distance, but instead reinforces poor timing and consistency. Your club speed should gradually pick up during the forward swing and will be at its fastest during impact.
Therapy
When you tee the ball higher, it will help you grasp the feeling that you are sweeping the ball off the tee. Be sure your body and head are behind the ball before and during your downswing. You should extend your arms so the club can sweep the ball for clean contact. Once you have mastered the sweeping motion necessary for your driver and woods, you should try the following drill if you need to improve your timing during your downswing. Extend your arms so that your sand wedge is straight out in front of you and let the clubhead drop. Notice how it gradually picks up speed without any effort. Now take the wedge to the top position in your swing and let it drop under its own weight. This is the sensation and rhythm necessary for a proper downswing.
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