Correct / Best Move to Start the Downswing?

Thanks Mike for addressing this really important issue. I know my comment is a bit late, I just joined Tom's program last week. I think the most difficult area for most of us regular golfers is the transition from backswing to downswing. I think if you and I can master that move, with Tom's help of course, then we will immediately see great improvement. One thing helping me in this regard is hitting into the net at home. I try to swing as slow as I can to instill the feeling and a great check point (at least for me) is to see if you finish in balance. Anyway, thanks again for bringing up this important issue in the swing. Best of luck to you in your golfing career.

Regards,

Cal in Texas

@galloway8625 - You may have seen me comment that I do my best to convey multiple feels or thoughts throughout the swing wherever possible because we're all different physiologically and psychologically, and something that resonates effectively with one golfer may not necessarily work for another. However, no matter the variety of suggested feels/thoughts offered for a particular element of the swing, they are all directed at getting different golfers to achieve the same desired positions, motions, and ball striking results.

An effective, repeatable golf swing is built on a compilation of personal feels that are unique to each of us individually. Over time we ingrain these feels into a complete motion that we can execute without need for mechanical thoughts. We are then able to simply allow our ball striking and shot shape to be our guide, making only occasional minor setup tweaks when necessary. That is what it means to "take ownership of YOUR swing".

None of this really answers your question specifically, although it does in general terms. So yes - you've described a variety of acceptable downswing triggers. Finding the right one for you - whether it be one of those or something homespun - is going to depend on you and your tendencies. Assuming you have a good understanding on the desired downswing path, your mission is to figure out what you can repeatedly do to achieve it, and there are plenty of lesson and drills in the school to assist in the process (and remember also that the V1 Analysis service is available if needed).

Of course, feel free to tag some of the regulars here in the forum if you'd like a little help from your friends.