There's probably a million other things that can be improved about my swing, like my lead hand isn't on my shoulder line, probably caused by my hands being too close at address, as you can see in this video. However, the search for swing perfection can easily cause you to get lost in the tiny minutiae, and can make you forget about the basic building blocks of the tilt, turn, and EXTEND, especially when you are a rookie like myself. I feel like the extension part of the swing is particularly prone to neglect, since it is a more hidden mechanic; not as obvious as the tilt, and certainly not as obvious as the turn, but equally important for consistent contact.
I pause in my backswing to indicate non-extension with a head shake, and full extension with a head nod. Then I take a crack at one, focusing on extension. This basic movement gives me much more consistent contact with the ball first. Try it out yourself!
Thanks @Tom Saguto ! I've been meaning to look for this picture as I've seen it in other posts.
Nice post, @joey puvel. Extension is that one piece that is most commonly missing or deficient, but without it it's very easy to regress to shifting an lifting. Extension is the key to unlocking the swing, and all would do well to routinely check ourselves to make sure we are doing it properly and fully. It really should feel like your giving your spine a nice stretch, because - well - you are...
As for your hands being too close - and without actually getting into an analysis of your video - please consider these two setup pics and captions from the S&T book.
@Joshua Flynn it's very satisfying when you lose it, and then you go back to the basics and find it again. You gotta love the process before you can love the results!
I do agree it’s easy once you start having so much fun playing golf with Saguto’s tutelage that your basics can start to wane. I’ve had to refocus this week on my basics. It’s a fun process.