Tom’s recent KFC member post 11/30/22 advocates for a slightly downward angle of attack at impact For optimal distance and control. When I look at photos of model Driver ST swings at impact it appears the shoulder center (upper body) is same as set-up, and the Hip Center ( lower body) has shifted forward producing a noticeable spine angle tilt (face-on view) away from the target. This implies to me a classic body position for an upward strike. I notice in my own Driver ball flight, with Saguto Simplified Swing, plenty of penetrating “push draw” trajectory with awesome driver distance (like I’m 20-30 years younger). How is this possible with a downward stroke and spine tilt away from target??
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Welcome to this great members forum community, @Dean70+!!
In our stock setup with the driver, the hands - as they are with all clubs when playing a standard shot - are even with the inside of the lead thigh, and our ball position is even with the inside of the heel of the lead foot. This presets a very slight degree of forward shaft lean with the driver. Beyond that, the ball is behind the zero-point of the swing (which is even with the lead shoulder), meaning that without any contrived manipulations the club is still on its descent - albeit very close to flat - at impact. Remember that even though the spine may be tilted away from the target, our swing center has retained its stable axis and the travel arc of the clubhead has not changed; in other words, the head will not begin to ascend until it passes the zero point.
Perhaps with the exception of folks with slower swing speeds – or those Long Drive participants teeing it extra high and hitting maybe 1-2 balls out of 10 onto a 60-yard wide "fairway" - the path is still ever so slightly down. In fact, the PGA Tour average with the driver is actually minus (e.g.: downward) 1.5 degrees - nearly level - and it should feel level - but slightly down nonetheless. (Here is an article on Ping’s website addressing this topic.
Keep up the great work and enjoy your newfound distance!!
Tom